Protocol…

We have just witnessed the swearing in ceremony of 3 (Three) newly appointed judges into the Lagos State Judiciary, the first since this administration came into office. Indeed, today’s ceremony symbolizes another milestone in the commitment of our Government to enhance the quality of life of our people through a justice administration system that is quick and fair.

I congratulate all the newly appointed judges for being adjudged fit and proper to be on the respected higher bench of the busiest and most vibrant State judiciary in the Nigerian Federation – the Lagos State judiciary.

Over the years, the Lagos State Judiciary has established a reputation for itself as a trailblazer in the entire Federation with intellectual judicial pronouncements that have stood the test of time at Appellate Courts. This was achieved through the various reforms that were initiated and faithfully implemented by succeeding leaderships of the State judiciary in partnership with the other two arms of government.

These reforms have not stopped and I note the successful summit recently organized by the Ministry of Justice that pulled together several stakeholders in the justice sector. This Government will use the recommendations from that summit to drive further reform in the judiciary and other key justice sectors in areas of infrastructure, technology, people and processes and improved welfare for the judiciary.  In the end we hope to bequeath a more vibrant and qualitative judiciary and justice sector fit for the 21^st century and beyond.

It is also my hope that with the caliber and qualities of these new learned personalities, our bench will be further enriched to effectively discharge its constitutional functions and deliver hope and justice to the people.
My Lords, may I remind you that by this appointment, your conduct and carriage would become subject of public scrutiny. You must therefore maintain a high standard of professional competence and integrity to be able to dispense justice to all manners of people without fear or favour, affection or ill will.

Once again, I congratulate Hon. Justice Elizabeth Idowu Alakija, Hon. Justice Emmanuel Ogundare and Hon. Justice Sherifat Solebo on your appointments. I also felicitate with their families, colleagues, associates and well-wishers on this special occasion.

Thank you and God bless you all.

“Itesiwaju Ipinle Eko Lo Je wa Logun”

Akinwunmi Ambode

Governor of Lagos State

8^th March, 2017