Dr. Rapulu Nduka has called for stronger judicial activism to advance social justice in Nigeria. He made the call while speaking at the 1st Memorial Lecture in honour of the late Adesina Ogulana, held at the Ikeja Bar Center on September 12, 2025.
Reflecting on his encounters with the late Ogulana, Dr. Nduka described him as fiery and uncompromising, noting that every office he held was used as a platform to fight for society rather than for personal gain. He recalled Ogulana’s resolve to contest for NBA President in order to return the Association to the path of activism.
Speaking on the theme of social justice, Dr. Nduka stressed that no society can progress without it. He expressed concern that while the principles of governance are well articulated in Chapter 2 of the Nigerian Constitution, they remain non-justiciable. He urged the judiciary to interpret these provisions in a manner that would make them enforceable, thereby holding the political class accountable.
Dr. Nduka cautioned that whispers about the judiciary being captured must not be ignored, warning that failure to uphold social justice could erode public confidence in the courts. “If that happens,” he said, “voices outside the judiciary may command more obedience than the courts.”
He concluded by paying tribute to Ogulana, noting that though he has fallen, his legacy should inspire many more to rise and continue the fight for social justice
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