Weak Law Enforcement Empowers Criminals, Erodes Public Trust

A former Lagos State governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has warned that ineffective law enforcement is emboldening criminals and undermining public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.

Fashola, who stated in his keynote speech at the 2026 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch Law Week in Lagos, insisted that Nigeria’s security issues largely stem from the poor implementation of legal and institutional mechanisms meant to curb crime.

Speaking on the theme, “Law, Leadership and the Ballot: Governance Beyond Politics,” the former minister stated that addressing insecurity requires more than political rhetoric. Effective crime prevention, detection, prosecution, and conviction are necessary to see meaningful progress.

He also pointed out that the weak enforcement of existing laws creates opportunities for criminal activities and diminishes citizens’ trust in the justice system’s capacity to protect lives and property.

Fashola further called on lawyers, judges, and policymakers to take a more active role in enhancing security, stressing that responsibility does not solely lie with presidents, governors, and security agencies.

The former Governor urged attorneys general at the federal and state levels to be more visible in shaping discussions on security, justice, and legal reforms.

He also noted that sustainable development and economic growth depend on a strict rule of law and public confidence in institutions.

To improve security, Fashola proposed stricter enforcement of vehicle registration laws, warning that unregistered vehicles facilitate criminal activities and hinder law enforcement.

He argued that vehicle number plates should be regarded as vital tools for accountability and modern policing, rather than mere administrative necessities.

Fashola challenged legal professionals to go beyond advocacy and actively push reforms that strengthen institutions, improve governance, and rebuild trust in the justice system.

He also urged courts and legal practitioners to use clearer, simpler language to make legal matters more accessible to the public.

Earlier, NBA Ikeja Branch Chairman Adeniji Quadri described the Law Week theme, “Altering the Status Quo: Going Against the Norm,” as an appeal for bold reforms to tackle Nigeria’s governance and security challenges.

Kazeem said the legal profession must continually assess whether existing institutions are effectively delivering justice and meeting citizens’ expectations, particularly in an era marked by economic hardship and security concerns.

The head of the Law Week Planning Committee, Chukwudi Enebeli, added that the event aims to foster discussions on accountability, governance, and national development.