The Oyo State Judiciary commences the 2026/2027 Legal Year with a renewed call on judicial officers and legal practitioners to uphold integrity, impartiality, righteousness and the fear of God in the administration of justice. The Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima, expresses appreciation to God for the progress recorded by the Judiciary and acknowledges the support of Governor Seyi Makinde in strengthening judicial infrastructure and improving the delivery of justice across the state.

The annual Legal Year celebration takes place on Monday, October 5, 2026, with thanksgiving services held at the Cathedral of Saint James, Oke-Bola, Ibadan, and the Oyo State Judiciary Mosque, Ring Road, Ibadan.

The services bring together judicial officers, magistrates, lawyers, members of the Judicial Service Commission, staff of the Judiciary, members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts and other stakeholders in the justice sector to offer thanksgiving and seek divine guidance for the new legal year.

Delivering the sermon at the Christian thanksgiving service, Rt. Revd. Titus Babatunde Olayinka urges members of the legal profession to make righteousness, integrity and service to humanity the foundation of their professional practice.

Speaking on the theme, “Let Your Legal Profession Be a Blessing to Society,” and drawing inspiration from Matthew 5:16, which says, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven,” the cleric describes the legal profession as a noble calling that carries significant responsibility to society.

He stresses that professional success should not be measured solely by personal achievements, positions or material accomplishments, but also by the positive impact legal practitioners make in promoting justice, peace, truth and the welfare of society.

Rt. Revd. Olayinka charges judicial officers and legal practitioners to deploy their knowledge, expertise and positions to promote justice, protect the vulnerable and uphold the rule of law.

He emphasises the importance of integrity, urging members of the legal profession to build their careers on truth and trustworthiness so that their names become synonymous with honesty and justice.

The cleric also draws attention to the plight of vulnerable members of society, particularly those who encounter difficulties in accessing justice.

Raising concerns about the denial of justice to innocent persons and overcrowding in correctional facilities, he challenges legal practitioners to use their positions and expertise to address these challenges and become instruments of peace, justice and positive transformation.

Also speaking at the mosque service, the guest lecturer and Chief Imam of Oluyole Extension Mosque, Alhaji Mudashiru Bada, stresses the importance of administering justice without fear or favour.

He explains that impartial justice is essential to peace, fairness and tranquillity, adding that it protects human dignity and promotes peaceful coexistence.

Bada also urges individuals seeking political office to avoid actions capable of triggering crises and social disorder, stressing the importance of responsible conduct and respect for the principles of justice.

He maintains that the administration of justice without fear or favour remains essential to building an orderly society where fairness, peace and human dignity are upheld.

Speaking at the thanksgiving service held at the Judiciary Mosque, the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Bayo Lawal, calls on judicial officers to uphold integrity, impartiality and independence in the discharge of their duties.

He describes the commencement of a new legal year as an opportunity for reflection, rededication and renewal, stressing that the rule of law remains fundamental to a peaceful and orderly society.

Lawal notes that public confidence in the Judiciary depends on the ability of the courts to dispense justice fairly and independently. He therefore urges members of the Bench to remain fearless and incorruptible, while calling on legal practitioners to uphold professional ethics and place the pursuit of justice above the desire to win cases at all costs.

The Deputy Governor also reminds judicial officers and lawyers of their responsibilities as leaders in society, emphasising the need for patience, tolerance and understanding in their professional relationships.

He calls for greater harmony between the Bench and the Nigerian Bar Association in Oyo State, assuring that the state government will support efforts to resolve disagreements and strengthen cooperation between both sides of the legal profession.

A major highlight of the celebration is the colourful judges’ march-past, which adds vibrancy to the occasion and symbolises unity, progress and renewed commitment among members of the Judiciary as they begin another legal year.

Speaking on the progress of the Judiciary, The Chief Judge of Oyo State, Honourable Justice I.S. Yerima expresses gratitude to God for the achievements recorded since she assumed office.

She appreciates fellow judges for their cooperation and commends Governor Seyi Makinde for his continued support for the Judiciary, particularly in the area of infrastructure.

According to her, the state government’s support has significantly improved the physical appearance and condition of court facilities across the state, providing a more conducive environment for judicial operations.

Justice Yerima also notes that the deployment of additional judges has enhanced the pace of adjudication, helping to reduce the backlog of cases and improve access to justice.

She further highlights the role of the Oyo State Multi-Door Courthouse in promoting mediation and alternative dispute resolution, explaining that the initiative helps parties resolve disputes without necessarily resorting to prolonged litigation.

The commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year provides an opportunity for the Oyo State Judiciary and the wider legal community to reflect on their responsibilities, celebrate progress and renew their commitment to integrity, fairness, accountability and service to humanity.

Information Unit
Oyo State High Court of Justice