Senator describes lawyers as democracy backbone

Sen. Adeniyi Adegbomire (SAN), representing Ondo Central Senatorial District, has described lawyers as promoters of the rule of law and the backbone of Nigeria’s democracy.

Adegbomire was the guest speaker at the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Okitipupa Branch Law Week, on Saturday in Okitipupa.

He was represented by Mr. Henry Akingebesote, Chairman, NBA, Ondo Branch.

The senator said that lawyers played a crucial role in ensuring the effectiveness of the nation’s legal system.

Supreme News reports that Adegbomire spoke on “The Role of Lawyers as Social Engineers and Promoters of the Rule of Law.”

Adegbomire said that lawyers had been advocates of the masses through litigations, legal advice, human rights campaigns and promotion of access to justice, among other means.

He added that lawyers were a barometer for the conscience of the citizens and governments.

He mentioned the late Aka Bashorun and the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi among legal icons and human rights activists who fought for democracy to thrive in Nigeria.

According to him, in spite of challenges, Nigerian lawyers have been able to fight their way through to democracy.

“The NBA remains steadfast, speaking out at great risks against undemocratic forces.

“Today, NBA is not just a professional body but a backbone of legal practice in Nigeria, playing a crucial role in shaping the standards, ethics, and direction of the legal profession,” Adegbomire said.

Earlier, Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, in his goodwill message, acknowledged the role of the NBA as the voice of the masses.

Aiyedatiwa, represented by Mr. Maurice Oripenaye, Chairman, Ilaje East Local Council Development Area, said his administration would bring succour to the masses in all circumstances.

“I am aware of the high court that was burnt by EndSARS protesters in 2020,” the governor said.

He said that the state government would ensure its reconstruction

Sen. Jimoh Ibrahim, representing Ondo South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, urged the NBA to continue to perform its roles as the voice of the voiceless.

Ibrahim, the Chairman of the Law Week, was represented by one of his aides, Dr. Olusegun Ayodele.

He urged the NBA to continue to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and equity.

Ibrahim donated N1 million to the NBA in support of its centre under construction.

Mr. Omotola Odusola,Chairman, NBA Okitipupa Branch, said that lawyers would be steadfast in defending the principles of democracy.

“We recognise that democracy is not static but dynamic and demands balancing individual’s freedom with collective order.

“Each law week serves as a testament to our commitment to our noble profession,” he said.

Supreme News reports that the event was attended by lawyers, politicians, captains of industries, and traditional rulers.

The highpoints of the event were awards-giving and donations for completion of the NBA Centre.