The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Badagry Branch celebrated industry excellence by recognizing the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Akutah Pius Ukeyima, Esq. The recognition was a highlight of the branch’s 10th Annual Law Week, which also included the launch of the second edition of the Heritage Bar Journal on Thursday, November 27.
While addressing attendees at the 10th Annual Law Week in Lagos, the visibly surprised Dr. Akutah stated that the recognition was entirely unanticipated. He affirmed that dedicated service ultimately speaks for itself, recalling his extensive years developing the nation’s justice system at the Federal Ministry of Justice.
“Sometimes the recognition comes many years later; this honour is one of such. I do not take it for granted, even though I know it is the will of God to have this privilege today. Whatever responsibility you have, put in your very best – this is my advice to those in public service.”
The Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba, JSC, has denounced the rising trend of “trial-by-social-media.” Speaking through his representative, Hon. Justice Obafemi Adamson, he cautioned both legal practitioners and the public against publicly dissecting sensitive court judgments without understanding the full facts and legal principles.
“Without even seeing the full decision of the court, some persons begin to analyse and say all sorts of things.
“The legal profession is noble, with structures and appropriate channels for grievances. Those dissatisfied with judgments should not turn to social media but to the next higher court.”
The fundamental purpose of legal practice, Justice Alogba underscored, is the preservation of constitutional sanctity.
“Lawyers and even non-lawyers sometimes fault judgments because a similar scenario got a different result. But if the parties fail to establish the principles of a previous case, the court may not apply the same conclusion.”
He envisioned a future where the NBA Badagry Branch grows stronger and helps drive the legal profession forward.
“returns to its original honourable state.”
NBA Badagry Branch Chairman, Lawal Rashidi, Esq., used his welcome address to commend Dr. Akutah’s impactful leadership. He noted the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) boss’s proactive approach is a driving force behind key national development goals.
The release of the highly anticipated second edition of the Heritage Bar Journal signals the branch’s unwavering commitment to academic depth and excellence, Sooth News has learned.
Providing a vital platform for examining critical legal issues, the Law Week is underscored by this year’s pointed theme:
“Judicial Reputation in the Digital Age: Challenges and Solutions.”
However, in addition to the academic pursuits, the Law Dinner, Journal Launch, and Award Presentation successfully foster community engagement:
“We gather to meet, interact with, and honour members and colleagues who have relentlessly contributed to the growth of NBA Badagry Branch. We encourage you to engage with our members—they are world-class lawyers.”
The event was graced by notable dignitaries including the NBA’s 2nd Vice President, Bolatumi Animashaun, and Chief Osuala Nwagbara, Managing Partner at Maritime and Commercial Law Partners.
The occasion successfully united a diverse assembly of judges, senior lawyers, commissioners, traditional rulers, and public officials from both within and outside Lagos State.
