LAGOS SET TO HOLD JUSTICE REFORM SUMMIT
Lagos State Government is set to hold a Justice Reform Summit to discuss pressing challenges facing the Justice System which has impacted the economy and society as a whole.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, disclosed this during a press conference held on Monday at the conference room of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Alausa, Ikeja.
Pedro explained that the Justice Reform Summit was conceived in 2023 upon his assumption of office with the approval of Mr. Governor, which stemmed from earlier discussions and recognition that an efficient and effective justice system is the cornerstone of a well-functioning society and a catalyst for economic growth and social stability.
He affirmed that to tackle these critical issues in the Justice Sector, the Ministry deemed it fit and appropriate to organise a Reform Summit, themed: “Enhancing the Administration of Justice, Investment Protection and Security in Lagos State”, scheduled to hold on Monday 27th and Tuesday 28th May, 2024 at the Marriott Hotel, G.R.A Ikeja with the Governor of Lagos, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu as the Chief Host.
The Attorney-General further noted that the Summit’s objectives will include addressing inadequate enforcement of laws, appraising the causes and consequences of delays in the justice system, exploring innovative strategies to expedite legal processes while highlighting the justice system’s role in attracting investments and rebuilding investors’ confidence in the administration of justice.
He equally stressed that the event will feature Judges, Scholars, the Nigerian Bar Association, Police, Correctional Officers, Lawmakers, Private Sector Representatives and others to foster a constructive dialogue, evaluate the past, present and chart a course for the future.
Speaking earlier during her welcome address, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Titilayo Shitta-Bey Jeje noted that there will be series of discussions aimed at addressing pressing challenges of the sector.
Shitta-bey Jeje further explained that the discussions will border on law enforcement for sustainable growth, rule of law, alternative dispute resolution, and equitable access to legal services while exploring innovative approaches and best practices from other jurisdictions that can be adapted to the justice system of Lagos State.
“Our goal is to foster a collaborative environment where ideas and experiences can be freely exchanged, leading to actionable insights and concrete solutions “, she said.
The Solicitor-General urged all stakeholders to engage actively and contribute to this collective effort and shared commitment to make significant strides towards a just and equitable society.
Other prominent dignitaries expected at the event include the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON; Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Alogba and Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Honourable Mudasiru Obasa amongst others.