Dear Esteemed Colleagues,
As we bid farewell to the outgoing year and usher in a new year, I reflect on our collective efforts to promote justice, defend the defenseless, and uphold the rule of law in Nigeria. Despite the nation’s economic challenges, your resilience and dedication to our noble profession are truly commendable.
The current economic situation in Nigeria is characterized by rising inflation, high unemployment, and a significant gap between the rich and the poor (World Bank, 2024). It is unconscionable that the political class continues to indulge in luxuries, while a greater percentage of our youths are unemployed, and those in employment are paid meager wages (NBS, 2024).
As legal practitioners, we have a critical role to play in promoting justice, equality, and fairness in our society. We must continue to stand up for the rights of Nigerians, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized. We must also demand accountability from our leaders and ensure that they prioritize the welfare of citizens. These price hikes are suicidal and must stop.
We must also recognize the urgent need to address the myriad challenges facing our nation, including poverty, corruption, and inequality. We owe it to ourselves, our profession, and the Nigerian people to take a stand and demand a better future for all.
To my fellow colleagues, I salute your courage, passion, and dedication to our noble profession. Let us continue to work together to ensure that no innocent Nigerian is left in prison custody, that our correctional centers are rid of minor offenders, and that non-custodial sentencing becomes the norm.
We must ensure that chapter II of the 1999 Constitution is justiciable such that the people of Nigeria are not forced into modern day slavery ( ‘Jappa’) there should and must be equal distribution of resources and creation of an enabling environment for Nigerians to thrive.
The judiciary, as the watchdog of our democracy, must assume its rightful place and ensure that justice is served without fear or favor. We must work together to rid our correctional centers of minor offenders and promote non-custodial sentencing (Prison Reform Trust, 2020).
Furthermore, we must address the issue of impunity in the banking industry, where Nigerians are subjected to exorbitant fees and charges. We must also tackle the menace of land grabbing, corrupt police officers, violence against women and children, delay in the justice system,
fake pastors, fake lawyers, and doctors, who are perpetuating injustice and impunity in our society.
Extra special protection should be given to the Nigeria Woman and Child as well as the youth.
As we move forward into the new year, I urge you all to remain committed to our core values of justice, equality, and fairness. Let us work together to build a better future for Nigeria, where the rule of law reigns supreme, and all citizens are treated with dignity and respect.
Permit me to seize this opportunity to thank you all once again for giving me the rare privilege to serve our great Association as the 3rd Vice President from 2022 to 2024. I’ll be ready and willing to serve again if given the opportunity.
Wishing you all a very Happy, Peaceful, Fulfilling, Safe and Prosperous New Year!!!
LOVE YOU ALL LOADS!!!
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Mandy Demechi-Asagba
Immediate Past 3rd Vice President
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
Mandyasagba.com
