Let ordinary citizens feel justice, Sanwo-Olu tells judiciary

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged top management of the Federal Ministry of Justice to build a justice system that will not only dispenses justice but fosters a sense of trust and confidence among the citizens.

Sanwo-Olu advocated a Nigeria “ where justice is not an abstract concept but a tangible reality of every citizen.”

This, he said, would “lay a foundation for a more just equitable, and prosperous nation.”

The Lagos governor made the call in a keynote address he delivered at the 2024 top management retreat of the Federal Ministry of Justice held on Thursday at the Sheraton Hotel in Lagos.

He enjoined participants to evolve new legal initiatives in the justice administration that would assist the Tinubu-led government in addressing the demands and challenges facing the country.

Sanwo-Olu said, “As we delve into discussions, we should all keep in mind the overarching goal to build a justice system that not only dispenses justice but fosters a sense of trust and confidence within our citizens. The success of all your efforts will be measured by the positive impacts felt by ordinary Nigerians who are seeking justice.

“In our pursuit for enhanced systems and structures, let us take cognisance of the need for a continuous evaluation and adaptation of the dynamic system of our society.

“We need to have regular assessments; we need to develop a feedback mechanism and a commitment to continuously improve and ensure that relevant and effective justice reform systems are reviewed at all times.”

In his opening remarks, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), urged top management officials of the Federal Ministry of Justice to take necessary steps to tackle challenges associated with coordinating justice sector institutions in the country.

Fagbemi said, “Our duties are an amalgamation of law and policy; it is, therefore, critical that we continually review our operational strategies to enable us to meet the yearnings of our people for an effective and people-oriented justice system.”

In her welcome address, the Solicitor-General of the Federation, Mrs. B.E. Jedy-Agba, said the aim of the retreat was to formally review and validate the Strategic Plan of the Federal Ministry of Justice for Years 2023 – 2027, as well as its Work Plan for Year 2024.