The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ijebu-Ode Branch, has unveiled an extensive programme of activities for its 28th Annual Law Week, using the occasion to renew calls for the strengthening of the rule of law as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic development.
Speaking at a press conference in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Chairman of the branch, Prof. Chief Fassy Adetokunboh O. Yusuf, described the annual event as a critical platform for legal practitioners to reflect on national issues, evaluate the state of justice administration and contribute meaningfully to democratic governance.
The 2026 Law Week is themed “Strengthening the Rule of Law in a Democratic Nigeria,” a subject Prof. Yusuf said remains highly relevant amid growing concerns about accountability, justice and constitutional governance in the country.
According to him, the week-long programme is designed not only to advance professional discourse within the legal community but also to deepen public engagement on issues affecting the administration of justice.
“The Annual Law Week is a statutory programme of the association. It gives us an opportunity to assess the state of the nation, discuss contemporary legal issues, promote professional development and strengthen the bond among members of the legal profession,” he said.
Prof. Yusuf expressed appreciation to media practitioners for their longstanding partnership with the branch, noting that journalists remain critical stakeholders in the promotion of justice, transparency and public accountability.
Activities lined up for the Law Week began with the press conference and will continue with special prayers at the Central Mosque, Ijebu-Ode, alongside a social gathering aimed at fostering fellowship and networking among legal practitioners.
A fitness walk and exercise session is scheduled to hold at the Dipo Dina International Stadium, while a thanksgiving service will take place at the Cathedral Church of Our Saviour, Italowajoda, Ijasi, Ijebu-Ode.
In line with its commitment to community development and public service, the branch will also undertake various community service projects across the town.
One of the major highlights of the celebration will be the commissioning and dedication of a new Bar Centre donated by the Bamofin of Ijebu, Chief Aderibigbe Adedeji, SAN, a project Prof. Yusuf described as a landmark achievement for the branch.
The week will also feature a novelty football match between the NBA Ijebu-Ode All Stars and the NBA Abeokuta Branch Football Team, underscoring efforts to promote camaraderie and healthy interaction among members.
The flagship event of the Law Week will be the Annual Bar Lecture, where renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, will deliver the keynote address.
The lecture will focus on the theme of the Law Week and will be followed by a panel discussion featuring distinguished members of the Bench, the Bar and academia.
The celebrations will culminate in the Annual Bar Dinner and Awards Night, during which a new Executive Committee will be inaugurated to steer the affairs of the branch for the 2026–2028 administrative term.
Among senior members present at the press briefing were Chairman-elect Mr. Gbenga Tajudeen Adeiye, Secretary and Vice Chairman-elect Mrs. Olaniyi, incoming executive member Mrs. Abiola Ogundipe, and the branch Publicity Secretary, Mrs. Atinuke Ibidapo-Adebajo.
Responding to questions on the broader challenges confronting the rule of law in Nigeria, Prof. Yusuf identified public indifference and reluctance to speak out against wrongdoing as one of the greatest obstacles to justice and accountability.
According to him, the widespread culture of silence in the face of obvious misconduct has weakened institutions and undermined efforts to uphold democratic values.
“People are often not bold enough to condemn what they know is wrong, and this has become a major constraint to the rule of law in Nigeria,” he said.
Reflecting on his two-year tenure, the outgoing chairman highlighted the completion of significant work on the branch’s Bar Centre project, which he said was inherited at the foundation stage and has now progressed to a level where commissioning has become possible.
He also pointed to the peaceful atmosphere that characterised his administration, noting that disagreements within the branch were resolved through dialogue and internal mechanisms without degenerating into major disputes.
Prof. Yusuf further disclosed that the branch, through its Human Rights Committee, intensified public enlightenment campaigns aimed at educating citizens on their constitutional rights and civic responsibilities.
Speaking on behalf of the incoming executive, Chairman-elect Mr. Gbenga Tajudeen Adeiye pledged to prioritise the welfare of members, promising initiatives that would strengthen professional support systems, improve engagement and enhance the overall well-being of legal practitioners within the branch.
He assured members that the incoming leadership would build on existing achievements while pursuing programmes that further promote professional excellence and unity.
As preparations gather momentum, Prof. Yusuf expressed confidence that the 28th Annual Law Week would serve as a meaningful platform for advancing conversations around justice, accountability and democratic governance.
He called on members of the public, the media and stakeholders in the justice sector to support the activities and contribute to the collective effort of strengthening the rule of law in Nigeria.
[contact-form][contact-field label=”Name” type=”name” required=”true” /][contact-field label=”Email” type=”email” required=”true” /][contact-field label=”Website” type=”url” /][contact-field label=”Message” type=”textarea” /][/contact-form]
Leave a comment