I participated in the 2026 Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture, a timely and thought-provoking engagement centred on the theme “Integrity Deficit within the Justice Architecture: What Path Lies Ahead for the Legal Fraternity?”
The lecture was deeply illuminating and served as a strong call for the legal profession to return to the path of integrity, ethical conduct, and professional responsibility. It also provided a moment to reflect on the life and enduring legacy of Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN, whose courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to justice remain exemplary.
The keynote address by Pastor Tunde Bakare was particularly impactful. He highlighted the defining virtues of Gani Fawehinmi – integrity, punctuality, and diligence, and noted pointedly that “lawyers and judges who trade justice for profit share a kindred spirit with political leaders who plunder the state while the people suffer.”
Overall, the lecture offered the legal community an important opportunity for collective introspection on restoring public trust in the justice system.
I commend the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch, led by Adeniyi Quadri, and the entire Ikeja Branch (Tiger Bar) for sustaining this important legacy.
Dr. Rapulu Nduka
Past National Publicity Secretary
Nigerian Bar Association
