.as Sanwo-Olu restates commitment to rule of law, judicial reforms

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

Islamic scholars, Sheikh Imran Abdul Majeer Elha and Dr. Abdul Rahman Lawal have identified injustice on the part of judiciary and political leaders among citizens as major cause of socio-economic problems currently confronting Nigeria.

Meanwhile, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and advancing judicial reforms in the State.

Sanwo-Olu, Elha and Lawal stated this on Monday, at the Mosque Prayer to Mark the Commencement of the 2024/2025 New Legal Year, held at the Lagos Central Mosque, Lagos Island.

The Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said “the government recognizes the critical role of the judiciary in maintaining justice and order, and the government is committed to supporting and strengthening it in every way possible.”

He stressed that the “Executive Arm remains steadfast in collaborating closely with the judiciary to ensure justice is delivered swiftly and fairly.

“It is our candid view that the judicial arm of government holds a vital responsibility in interpreting the laws, adjudicating civil and criminal matters, and providing mechanisms for alternative dispute resolution.”

He said hard work has sustained the integrity of the legal system, ensuring that the Lagos State Judiciary remains a beacon of hope for our citizens.

Sanwo-Olu admonished all arms of government to work hand in hand to ensure that the judiciary remains a pillar of justice and hope for all citizens of Lagos State.

Islamic scholar speaks

In his lecture titled “Exploring the Roles of the Judiciary in Revitalizing Nigeria’s Economy through an Islamic lens,” Elha, noted “the judicial career is a divine calling, and a career approved by Allah, paralleling it to the noble role of prophets who served as intermediaries between the people, as such, the profession demands utmost fairness, integrity, and dedication.”

According to Sheikh Elha, “On the last day, the sun will be brought closer to people thereby causing serious discomfort, Allah will command shadow to be on only those who judge rightly.”

He classified judges into three: Righteous judges who render fair and just verdicts; Ignorant judges who make uninformed decisions, and Corrupt judges who intentionally manipulate judgments, either through compromise or external pressure.

Elha stressed that only the first group, the righteous judges, will go to heaven, in contrast, the second and third groups, including those who judge ignorantly or under duress, will be condemned.

Similarly, in his lecture, titled “Justice as a Catalyst for Economic Recovery and Political Stability in Nigeria”, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Rahman Lawal, streseed that Allah strongly condemns injustice, having ordained it haram (forbidden) among people, and instead commands justice, fairness, and compassion in all human interactions.

Lawal added that delayed justice is also a form of injustice, stating that “all those who aid injustice will be in total darkness on the last day. Government must take care of price control and enforce it across the country.