Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerian lawyers to be unwavering in their defense of the rule of law, justice and judicial autonomy, saying these pillars are crucial for sustaining the nation’s democratic ideals.
Shettima made the call yesterday in Ilorin, Kwara State, during the 30th anniversary celebration of Yusuf Ali & Co., a prominent law firm owned by renowned legal luminary, Malam Yusuf Ali (SAN) (Ghalib Chambers).
Delivering his keynote address titled, “Justice, Truth, and Our Divergent Pursuits of the Ideal Political System,” the vice president in a statement by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, applauded President Bola Tinubu’s non-interference in election proceedings that favoured opposition parties, as well as his refusal to weaponise state instruments to protect perceived allies on trial.
“This commitment to the principle of separation of powers binds us. We shall continue to adhere to it. We shall trust you (lawyers) to do your part in the service of the nation,” he said.
The vice president noted that President Tinubu’s hands-off approach had strengthened Nigeria’s democracy, setting a precedent for future administrations to uphold the independence of the judiciary.
He urged legal practitioners to emulate this ethos, asserting that true lawyers are those who meticulously prepare for court, argue based on facts and legal principles, and courageously challenge injustice wherever it exists.
He extolled the virtues of Yusuf Ali & Co., lauding its unwavering commitment to the principles of justice over the past three decades.
Shettima described the firm as a bastion of excellence, resisting compromise under both military and democratic regimes. He also highlighted the federal government’s recent legal action to ensure full financial autonomy for local governments, referring to it as a convergence that should be prioritised in realising an ideal federal system.
He urged lawyers to be ethically committed to the pursuit of justice, deeming it crucial for a functional tripartite system.
Earlier, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwola, who was the chairman of the occasion, praised the celebrant, Prof Yusuf Ali, for excelling in his chosen profession, as well as defending the less privileged in the society.
Borno State Governor Prof Babagana Zulum commended the celebrant for contributing a lot to the legal profession in Nigeria.
He commended Prof Ali’s hard work and show of integrity.
Also, the Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who was represented by his deputy, Kayode Alabi, praised President Bola Tinubu for introducing his Renewed Hope Agenda which he said was improving the lives of Nigerians.
Guest Speaker at the event, former Lagos State Governor and Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, advocated for the continuation of Nigeria’s presidential system of government.
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