Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Friday underscored the need for strong institutions to sustain democracy, uphold justice and preserve societal values.
The governor spoke during the commissioning of a Bar Centre donated to the Ondo Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association by renowned legal practitioner, Tayo Oyetibo, in Ondo City.
Aiyedatiwa described the project as a symbol of professionalism, intellectual growth and institutional development, noting that societies endure because of institutions that preserve values and knowledge across generations.
He praised Oyetibo for what he described as an uncommon commitment to the legal profession, saying the donation reflected service, responsibility and patriotism.
According to the governor, the Bar Centre represents more than a building, adding that it would serve as a legacy of scholarship, justice and professional unity for members of the legal profession.
He also commended the leadership of the NBA Ondo Branch for sustaining professional standards and promoting institutional growth within the association.
The governor said the legal profession remains central to democratic governance, stressing that democracy risks losing its moral strength without an independent and courageous Bar.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening legal institutions and improving the justice system, maintaining that development can only thrive where justice is accessible and institutions command public trust.
Aiyedatiwa urged young lawyers to embrace excellence and uphold the ideals of integrity and service, expressing confidence that the centre would become a hub for mentorship, learning and professional advancement.
In his remarks, Oyetibo said the project was designed to strengthen legal practice and improve professional interaction among lawyers.
He noted that lawyers remain defenders of the rule of law and guardians of constitutional order, adding that investment in the profession ultimately benefits society.
The donor said the facility houses a library, conference room, reception area, cafeteria, lawyers’ lounge and other sections aimed at promoting professional development and collaboration.
Chairman of the occasion, Wole Olanipekun, commended Oyetibo’s generosity and urged younger lawyers to sustain the values established by senior members of the profession.
Justice Moronkeji Ogunwumiju appreciated the decision to name the library after her and announced the donation of Nigerian Weekly Law Reports from 2005 to 2026.
Also speaking, Chairman of the NBA Ondo Branch, Henry Idowu Akingbesote, described the project as the realisation of a long-standing dream of lawyers in the branch.
Former Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Olanrewaju Fagbohun, urged lawyers to embrace technology and continue defending democratic institutions.
Dignitaries at the event included judges, senior lawyers, traditional rulers and government officials, among them the Victor Kiladejo.
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