At the 2023 Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association Ibadan Branch, retired Justice Peter Olabisi Ige delivered a keynote speech, urging lawyers to uphold the rule of law and adhere to the dictates of the Rules of Professional Conduct.
In his address, Justice Ige emphasized the essential role lawyers play in maintaining social cohesion, stressing that they must adhere to their solemn responsibility—a foundation upon which social harmony rests.
He highlighted that lawyers owe allegiance to a higher cause, the truth and justice, and should only disregard their clients when it contradicts legal principles, as it is a code of honor, not just a code of law.
Furthermore, Justice Ige noted that lawyers hold significant roles in all matters of law and government, emphasizing the need for them to consider the societal consequences of their actions.
The keynote address aimed to reinforce the ethical standards expected of legal professionals.
During the Law Week, Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of Oyo State, Mr. Abiodun Aikomo, conveyed a goodwill message, reminding lawyers that they are agents of the law, a force binding society together.
He encouraged lawyers to think about using the law as an instrument of social engineering to create a just society and ensure the well-being of all citizens.
Femi Falana SAN, serving as the Guest Lecturer during the Owolabi Afuye Memorial Lecture, called for the exposure of corruption in society, especially among government officials.
He vehemently condemned the perceived unholy relationship between the executive and judiciary, asserting the independence of the judiciary and criticizing the display of state governor portraits inside courtrooms.
Additionally, the Law Week featured the Segun Aderibigbe Essay Competition, sponsored by Prime Solicitors under the leadership of Oluseun Abimbola SAN. Tolulope Idowu emerged as the winner, successfully defending his essay before the panel of judges headed by Prof. Adeniyi Olatunbosun SAN.
The competition aimed to benefit young lawyers in the Ibadan branch of the association, with other winners, Sodiq Kolapo Esq. and Victor Ogunsola Esq., securing the 2nd and 3rd positions, respectively.”
