By Ayomide Otitoju
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restated his administration’s commitment to judicial reforms, rule of law, and the independence of the judiciary, describing these as critical pillars of democracy in Nigeria.
The President made this known at the public presentation of a book in honour of the immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola (rtd), held on Monday in Abuja. Represented by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN, President Tinubu said ongoing legislative efforts are geared towards supporting structural reforms and ensuring expedited access to justice for all Nigerians.
The book, co-authored by Dr. Charles Mekwunye, SAN, and Ayo Olanrewaju, Deputy Editor-in-Chief and Chairman of the Editorial Board of the Nigerian Weekly Law Reports (NWLR), provides a detailed chronicle of Justice Ariwoola’s career in the appellate courts and his substantial contributions to Nigeria’s legal development.
Fagbemi, speaking on behalf of the President, commended Justice Ariwoola’s exemplary service and unwavering commitment to nation-building. He noted that many of the jurist’s judgments remain influential, especially in high-profile constitutional and contractual matters. He further stressed the government’s resolve to uphold judicial independence and enhance the justice delivery system.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who chaired the occasion, lauded the former Chief Justice’s integrity and legal legacy. He underscored the importance of leadership, institutional memory, and the rule of law in preserving democratic values. According to him, the book not only highlights Justice Ariwoola’s legal contributions but also serves as a vital historical record of transformative judicial decisions.
The book was reviewed by Professor Bolaji Owasanoye, SAN, who praised its depth and scholarly value. He described it as a significant addition to Nigeria’s legal literature and a “sobering reflection” on the duties and challenges of judicial officers.
In his remarks, co-author Dr. Mekwunye stated that the publication offers a critical examination of Justice Ariwoola’s judgments, revealing his consistent reliance on legal precedent and consensus-building. Notably, he pointed out that Justice Ariwoola never delivered a dissenting judgment throughout his judicial career, yet successfully advanced legal principles.
Dr. Mekwunye also used the occasion to call for urgent reforms in the criminal justice system, drawing attention to the plight of detainees who have spent years in correctional facilities without trial. He described the prolonged detention of suspects—some for as long as nine years without charge—as a gross violation of human rights and a significant blight on the justice system.
“True judicial reform must prioritise timely, fair, and equitable access to justice, especially for the most vulnerable,” he said, urging the Federal Government to intervene decisively.
In his address, the honouree, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, expressed gratitude for the recognition and reiterated his faith in the judiciary as the last hope of the common man. He emphasized the vital role of judicial officers in sustaining the rule of law and urged young legal practitioners to uphold integrity, discipline, and a commitment to justice.
The event brought together key figures in Nigeria’s legal and political communities, united in a shared call for lasting reforms to strengthen the nation’s judiciary.
