Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo (OON, SAN), has raised concern over the steady decline of public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system, urging lawyers to confront the crisis of trust threatening the profession’s moral authority.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Akure Branch, held at The Dome, Akure, Ajulo said the moment demands urgent introspection from all actors in the justice sector.
He noted that although the legal profession remains a cornerstone of civilisation and national stability, the public perception of the Bar and Bench has grown fragile, warning that indifference or ethical laxity could further deepen the mistrust.
Ajulo, who commended the organisers for adopting the theme, “Nigeria: Quest for a Utilitarian Judiciary and Roles for Stakeholders,” said the profession must first confront its internal contradictions before it can rebuild national confidence.
According to him, a utilitarian judiciary, one that benefits society and not merely satisfies procedure, cannot thrive where ethical commitment is weak or where stakeholders abdicate their responsibilities.
He stressed that the Bench must defend its honour through courage and impartiality, while the Bar must purge itself of practices that undermine its nobility.
He added that the mentorship of young lawyers often neglected must return to the centre of professional duty.
Ajulo also issued a charge to the Executive and Legislature, saying both arms of government must avoid actions that undermine judicial independence.
He insisted that the Executive, which he represents, must continue to respect court pronouncements and invest in infrastructure that strengthens justice delivery.
The Legislature, he said, must pass laws that reflect contemporary needs and support institutional reform.
Reflecting on historical milestones such as Ajasin v. Omoboriowo and Awolowo v. Shagari, Ajulo said the legal profession has repeatedly proven capable of resolving constitutional crises and restoring public order.
He, however, stressed that such influence comes with a responsibility to remain morally upright and professionally disciplined.
On the Ondo State experience, he reaffirmed that Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s administration has pursued judicial reforms, digitalisation and infrastructural upgrades in recognition of the link between justice, economic growth and political stability.
Calling for renewed purpose, Ajulo urged lawyers to reclaim their place as the conscience of society and defenders of the vulnerable, insisting that the survival of democratic values depends on the integrity of legal practitioners.
He commended the NBA Akure Branch for sustaining robust intellectual engagement and emphasised that the Law Week should reignite the profession’s collective commitment to justice, truth and national development.