Lagos at 50 – Ambode commends state Judiciary

Lagos state governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, on Thursday, commended judges and magistrates in the state for their excellent performance in the state judiciary system.

The governor made this declaration at a special judiciary session which was held at the foyer of Igbosere High Court, to mark Lagos at 50.

Ambode who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello, said he was “particularly happy with the quality of their judgements which most superior courts have upheld and their ability to build the public confidence in the judiciary.
“On behalf of the good people of Lagos state, I say well done and more power to your elbow,” he said.

He also affirmed that his administration would continue to support the state judiciary with necessary materials to ensure its efficiency and effectiveness.

He however noted that the journey in the last 50 years has not been rosy for the judiciary.
He said notwithstanding the achievements of the judiciary, more still needed to be done in view of the fact that Lagos, as the commercial nerve centre of West Africa presently cater for about 20 million people which continued to grow by the day.

“This signifies more work for the state government in the area of security, infrastructure, social welfare and for the judiciary, more and more litigation which would require the quickest dispensing of justice, more especially as it affects investor’s within the state, to continue to encourage them to invest in the Lagos dream and project.”

In her address, the Chief Judge, Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade, said the state judiciary is fully aware of their constitutional role as the third arm of government.
Atilade pointed out that their commitment to dispense justice as an independent and unbiased arbiter has been reinforced by their resolve to ensure justice to all who approach the temple of justice.

She also note that the outstanding performance of the state judiciary over the years have been compelled by their desire for excellence.
Atilade explained why the state judiciary has produced jurists of immense qualities most of whom are still serving the nation.
“We promise that the judiciary would continue to invest in human resources to improve service delivery and statutory duties,” she said.