*The Federal Government reveals legislative efforts are being made to support structural reforms and expedite access to justice for all Nigerians

Isola Moses | 绿帽献妻

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that his administration is committed to rule of law and the independence of the Nigerian Judiciary.

Tinubu stated this at a book launch in honour of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), held in Abuja, FCT.

The book, co-authored by Dr. Charles Mekwunye (SAN) and Ayo Olanrewaju, Deputy Editor-in-Chief and Chairman of the Editorial Board of the Nigerian Weekly Law Reports (NWLR), provides a comprehensive exploration of Justice Ariwoola鈥檚 years of service in Nigeria鈥檚 appellate courts.

The new volume also highlights Justice Ariwoola’s significant contributions to the development of jurisprudence in Nigeria.

The President, represented at the event by Representing the President, Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney-General of the Federation and Honourable Minister of Justice, said legislative efforts were being made to support structural reforms and expedite access to justice for all Nigerians.

Applauding the former Chief Justice鈥檚 unwavering dedication to nation building, the Nigerian leaders stated that Justice Ariwoola (Rtd.) viewed his role not just as an appointment but as a call to national service.

Several of the jurist鈥檚 judgments continue to resonate across the legal landscape, particularly in high-profile constitutional and contract disputes, stated President Tinubu.

He equally highlighted the government鈥檚 ongoing commitment to judicial independence.

In his remarks on the occasion, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former Nigerian President and Chairman of the occasion, reflected on the importance of leadership, accountability, and preserving a lasting legacy.

Jonathan emphasised that the book documents Justice Ariwoola鈥檚 legal contributions and serves as an essential symbol of institutional memory, offering insight into decisions that have shaped Nigeria鈥檚 constitutional, electoral, and administrative law.

The book, reviewed by Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye SAN, was praised for its richness and depth, a report said.

Prof. Owasanoye said: 鈥淥ne can say with the benefit of hindsight and the supporting evidence and testimony contained in this book that within this sobering reflection.

Speaking during the launch, the co-author, Mekwunye, explained that the book critically, examines Justice Ariwoola鈥檚 judgments, shedding light on his judicial philosophy and impact, this shedding lights on who Justice Ariwoola is through his judicial activities.

He emphasised that Justice Ariwoola, known for his adherence to legal precedent, never delivered a dissenting judgment throughout his career yet advanced legal principles through his consensus opinions.

Adding his voice to the call for reform, Dr. Mekuenye stressed the urgent need for the Federal Government to address the plight of detainees languishing in correctional facilities for years without trial.

The co-author of the book also decried the disturbing reality of individuals remaining incarcerated for up to nine years without being formally charged or granted bail, describing it as a breach of fundamental human rights and a stain on the justice system.

The senior lawyer emphasised that true judicial reform must include timely and equitable access to justice for all, especially the most vulnerable.

He stated: 鈥淭he government must look into the unjust and prolonged detention of prisoners who have not been brought before a court for a fair hearing.”

In his brief remarks at the book presentation, Hon. Justice Ariwoola, expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, and reaffirmed his belief in the Judiciary ‘s sanctity as the common man’s last hope.

He underscored the critical role of judicial officers in upholding the rule of law.

The former CJN also reminded young legal practitioners to remain steadfast in integrity, discipline, and service.

He said that justice should not only be done but must be seen to be done in every courtroom across the nation.

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