My Lords, Hon. Justice Olusola Adetujoye, Hon. Justice Beatrice Segun-Olakojo, Hon. Justice Prof. Elijah Adewale Taiwo and Hon. Justice Dr Kareem Adedokun took the Oath of Allegiance to the Federal Republic of Nigeria as judicial officers in Oyo State High Court. Hon. Justice Oluwabukola Omolayo Ajadi was also sworn-in with his brother judges as a judge of Oyo State Customary Court of Appeal to serve our fatherland. I congratulate my Lords, most warmly, and wish them God’s abundant mercy as they assume office for service. It is my fervent prayer that their stay on the Bench will be memorable.
It is common knowledge that judges are appointed from the most suitable candidates who apply for the job whenever there are vacancies. These positions are filled upon the death, retirement or elevation of serving judicial officers. There is no gain asserting the obvious that vacancies on the Bench constitute a heavy burden on serving judges as they are made to manage deep dockets. The attendant anguish experienced by litigants, lawyers and even the judges themselves is better imagined. Therefore, the appointment of new judges always enlivens those affected by the dispensation of justice. Any news which suggests the likelihood of an improvement in the system or, better still, speedy but diligent justice delivery, is usually welcome.
As judges, the expectations of all and sundry is that my Lords will put to effect measures which will correct the manifest lapses noticeable in the State judiciary. In addition, the Bar looks forward to a mutuality of interaction which deepens the relationship between members and the Bench, anchored on mutual respect and the undying passion for justice.
My Lords are enjoined to dispense justice with courage and candour. Unscrupulous elements will attempt all manner of underhand tactics to induce the unwary. There will be tempting occasions which may impel descent into the arena of conflict. This must be resisted. The totality of the virtues, which made my Lords to be eminently qualified to sit on the Bench, should be a constant guide.
The country goes through trying moments. This is the time when courage, diligence and honesty are required. Posterity beckons on all of us to contribute, positively, to the development of the land. We must deploy our God-given talents to rescue the land. We must deepen the current democratic experiment for the benefit of all. We must make our courts attractive to litigants and lawyers. All of us must own the process.
Once again, I congratulate my Lords. I wish them success as they join others in the defence of the people.
Ibrahim Lawal is the Head of Chamber, Olujinmi & Akeredolu of the Law Hub, Ibadan.