Kazeem Ugbodaga
Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State
The Lagos State Government has pledged its commitment towards boosting the Office of the Public Defender (OPD) to perform optimally as part of efforts to ensure the protection of the rights of the people.
Attorney General of the State and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem, who made the pledge while meeting with the state leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), said the administration of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode would focus more on people-oriented policies and give the OPD maximum support.
While describing the NBA as a veritable platform for all stakeholders in the legal profession to learn, exchange ideas and retool, Kazeem advocated for a more cordial working relationship between the NBA and the State’s Ministry of Justice.
Revealing the desire of the State Government to work with the association in order to uplift the quality of justice delivery in the state, Kazeem expressed his desire to meet members of the Bar periodically and proposed a quarterly parley with the Bar in order to foster stronger ties with members.
He expressed his intention to introduce more active communication channels, adding that his preferred mode of communication in conformity with present times would be through electronic means, which he said conveys messages faster.
The Lagos AG, however, requested for the database of members of the Bar and reiterated his intention to use information technology to drive his agenda.
Responding, the leadership of NBA pledged to support the policies of the State Government so long as they will better the lot of the people of Lagos State.
They also sought Kazeem’s assistance in getting the judiciary to give adequate notice to members of the Bar whenever the judges, for any reason, would be unable to sit.
They also urged the State Government to consider building more courtrooms in the Badagry division of the Lagos State High Court.
Besides, the Bar leaders implored Kazeem to ensure prompt payment and upward review of the subvention to NBA.
The meeting was attended by Mr. Yinka Farounbi, Chairman of Ikeja Branch; Mr. Dotun Adetunji- Chairman, Ikorodu Branch; Mr. Chris Okoye, Chairman Badagry Branch; and other executive members.
Lagos to boost Office of Public Defender
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