In a momentous event marking the return of the Nigerian Bar Association’s National Executive Council (NBA-NEC) meeting to Ondo State after nearly fifteen years, the Honourable Attorney General of Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, OON, SAN, who represented Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, delivered an inspiring welcome address.
Held on February 6th, 2025, at the International Cultural and Event Centre, The Dome, the gathering brought together the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Chief Afam Osigwe; Justices of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal; Senior Advocates of Nigeria; and other distinguished legal professionals.
In his address, Dr. Ajulo emphasized the significance of the NEC meeting as a vital platform for addressing pressing legal issues, reinforcing judicial independence, and promoting the rule of law.
“This is not merely an event; it is an opportunity to rejuvenate the professional camaraderie that binds us as legal practitioners and advocates for justice.” He stated.
He lauded Ondo State’s enduring legacy as a beacon of legal excellence, having produced some of Nigeria’s most distinguished legal practitioners, including Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, and the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN. He also acknowledged the contributions of Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, who once served in the state, further enriching its legal heritage.
Dr. Ajulo highlighted the transformative reforms initiated under the visionary leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to enhance access to justice. These include the implementation of digital case management systems, the expansion of legal aid services, and the establishment of an anti-land grabbing task force.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa is committed to ensuring that every citizen of Ondo State, whether residing within or outside the state, fully benefits from the law,” he affirmed.
Referencing a recent viral clip of a monarch in Ogun State allegedly assaulting an Ondo State indigene, Dr. Ajulo assured the gathering that Governor Aiyedatiwa had given a firm directive for immediate investigation and justice for the affected citizen, reinforcing the administration’s stance that every Ondo indigene, no matter their location, deserves protection under the law.
Furthermore, he reiterated the Governor’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment through legal reforms promoting transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
“As part of the State’s land-grabbing law, Governor Aiyedatiwa has mandated that all property transactions in Ondo State must involve the services of a lawyer. Any deal conducted outside legal counsel will be deemed invalid.” The AG stressed.
Dr. Ajulo urged members of the NBA-NEC to embrace their roles as custodians of justice, defenders of the constitution, and advocates of legal excellence. He called on them to actively engage in the deliberations and ensure that resolutions adopted at the meeting translate into concrete actions that strengthen Nigeria’s legal framework.
“The return of the NEC meeting to Ondo State, after over a decade, stands as a powerful testament to the state’s unwavering commitment to the rule of law and judicial excellence.” Dr. Ajulo concluded.
