Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State delivered this charge during a special church service held at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, to mark the beginning of the legal year.
In his goodwill message, the governor described the Judiciary as the guardian of citizens’ rights and freedoms, urging its members to remain symbols of integrity and independence while upholding the rule of law.
“We acknowledge the vital role of the Judiciary, particularly the dedication and sacrifices of Honourable Judges. This new legal year should serve as an opportunity to deliver greater service to the Bench and humanity, uphold impeccable standards, and reinforce public trust, as the Judiciary remains the last hope of the common man,” Abiodun stated.
Delivering the sermon titled “Let Justice Flow”, Most Rev’d Solomon Ojowu, Archbishop of the African Church, based his message on Amos 5:21-23, emphasizing the need for a justice system that promotes peace and equity, free from bias or fear.
The Hon. Chief Judge of Ogun State, Hon. Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, read the only lesson of the service from Romans 12:9-21.
The service was attended by distinguished personalities, including retired Honourable Judges, Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), members of the Executive arm of government, the Speaker of the House of Assembly and other legislators, traditional rulers, security agencies, and other dignitaries.
Meanwhile, a special mosque service was also held to commemorate the new legal year, with the State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Oyedele-Salako, and other Muslim faithful in attendance.
In a lecture titled “After Hardship Comes Ease from the Lens of the Holy Quran”, guest speaker Dr. Mutiu Agboke reminded attendees that grace comes from Allah, who grants His blessings as He wills. He emphasized that after hardship, ease follows.
Dr. Agboke further urged members of the Judiciary and legal profession to always align their actions with divine guidance in discharging their duties in the new legal year.
