In a heartfelt address during the special church service titled “Let Justice Flow,” Archbishop Solomon Ojumu of the African Church emphasized the urgent need for justice in society. Held to mark the beginning of the 2024/2025 Legal Year at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter in Ake, Abeokuta, the event brought together legal professionals and community leaders to reflect on the state of justice in Ogun State.

Archbishop Ojumu articulated a powerful message about the struggles faced by ordinary people, stating, “The masses are suffering not silently but openly.” He pointed out that many individuals are enduring hardships while perpetrators of crime walk free, often due to their connections with influential figures. The Archbishop expressed his frustration over the injustices faced by the public, saying, “This is not good; let justice flow.”

He argued that the suffering of the masses is a direct result of the elite’s actions and their ability to escape accountability. “Today, the masses suffer the sins and errors of the elite who continue to have their way in power,” he said, calling for a change in the system that allows these injustices to persist.

The Archbishop called on judges to uphold their responsibilities and ensure that justice is served. He acknowledged that, despite their best efforts, many judges are challenged by a system that includes “bad eggs” who undermine their work. He urged them to focus on reducing criminal activities through proper legal processes and to remain committed to their noble profession.

Governor Dapo Abiodun echoed the Archbishop’s sentiments, highlighting that justice is a collective responsibility. He assured the audience of his administration’s support for the judiciary and called upon judges to reciprocate this support with improved service delivery. “We must not become complacent. There are still many areas where improvements are needed,” he stated.

The governor emphasized the importance of addressing the backlog of cases and exploring alternative dispute resolution methods, such as arbitration and mediation. He also stressed the need for training and resources for legal professionals to enhance the efficiency of the judicial system.

In her remarks, Chief Judge Hon Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu assured the audience that the judiciary is committed to quick justice dispensation. She acknowledged the need for additional judges and infrastructure, such as more court facilities and resources, to improve the justice system. “We have been trying our best; we promise to continue to work hard and dispose of cases speedily,” she affirmed.

Archbishop Ojumu’s address served as a clarion call for accountability and justice in Ogun State. He reiterated that truth and justice are fundamental to achieving a peaceful society, urging all stakeholders to take immediate action to rectify the current injustices. The messages from both the Archbishop and the government officials underscore the necessity of collaboration in fostering a judicial system that truly serves the people and upholds the rule of law.

As the legal year begins, it is clear that the path to justice requires the commitment of everyone involved, from the judiciary to the government and the community at large. Only through collective effort can the struggles of the masses be addressed and a fairer society achieved.