Abuja – Justice of the Supreme Court (JSC) Justice John Fabiyi, (rtd) on Wednesday enjoined lawyers to stand up against unfairness, oppression and injustice at all times.
Fabiyi said this in Abuja during a valedictory session organised by the Court in his honour after he attained the mandatory retirement age of 70 years.
He said that the values of justice, truth and fairness were fundamental to any legal system.
“ Lawyers, who are part of this system, must be prepared to stand up for individuals and institutions against unfairness, oppression, tyranny or injustice even at the risk of incurring the anger of others.
“ Lawyers should always stand for the good of the common and uncommon man” he urged.
The Judge emphasised the need to ensure cordial relations among bar and bench.
“ Cordiality here refers to an atmosphere of sincerity, mutual respect, understanding, co-operation and accommodation among lawyers and judges” he said.
In his speech, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Mahmud Mohammed, described Justice Fabiyi as a morally upright and incorruptible judge.
Mohammed said that Fabiyi was a standard bearer, a model of rectitude and a pillar of juridical intellect.
According to him, the retiree will be a lesson to younger judges in comportment and dignity, which are needed for a judge.
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“ I found his lordship to be a wonderful conservationist, a morally upright and incorruptible judge and a very decent man,” CJN said.
Also speaking, the Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), said the Federal Government was determined to ensure strict adherence to the rule of law.
Malami, who was represented by the Solicitor General of the Federation, Mr Taiwo Abidogun, said the rule of law would continue to be the guiding principle of the government in its task of building the nation.
“ The present administration will promote strict adherence to the rule of law as a cardinal principle of governance. It is a sacred commitment. (NAN).