Justice Mary Peter Odili, Chair of the Body of Benchers, inspired a fresh wave of legal professionals during the call to bar ceremony.
She urged the 1,097 newly minted lawyers to wield their legal skills as tools against injustices and inequalities that persist in Nigeria.
She implored them to champion the rights of the less fortunate who cannot defend themselves.
“Your law degrees and call to bar certificates are not just pieces of documents you will hang on your wall or boast about. These are credentials that you can wield as your sword to fight against injustice,” Justice Odili declared.
She reminded the young lawyers that their legal expertise allows them to transform the world for the better, whether in private practice, government service, entrepreneurship, or any other field they choose to venture into.
Justice Odili also emphasized the importance of adhering to ethical and moral obligations, civility, and professionalism, stressing that their actions as legal practitioners will have a profound impact on their clients and society as a whole.
Furthermore, she urged the new lawyers to seek guidance from experienced colleagues when facing challenges and difficulties, and she cautioned against the improper use of social media, which could tarnish their reputation and that of the legal profession.
The ceremony, attended by prominent legal figures such as the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, marked the successful transition of these aspiring lawyers into the legal profession.
It was a significant milestone in their journey to uphold justice, ethics, and professional conduct in the legal field.
