On 29th May 2025, the Lex Initiative for Rights Advocacy and Development (LIRAD) participated in the 4th C.O. Anah, SAN Memorial Colloquium, hosted at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Secretariat in Abuja. Themed “Independence of the Judiciary and the Guardianship of Human Rights,” the event was organised by The Anah Center for Social Justice and gathered senior judges, legal scholars, and human rights defenders to examine the crisis facing Nigeria’s judiciary.

The colloquium addressed critical issues such as political interference, unethical judicial appointments, and the growing risks faced by courageous judges. A moving testimony by Hon. Justice Alaba Omolaye-Ajileye detailed threats to his life while presiding over a sensitive case—highlighting the personal cost of judicial integrity. Activist Aisha Yesufu and legal scholars like Prof. Chidi Odinkalu and Prof. Ernest Ojukwu issued bold calls for systemic reform, transparency, and protection for principled judges.

“Judicial independence is not just a legal principle—it is a human right. When it crumbles, so does our access to justice.” — Prof. Chidi Odinkalu

LIRAD’s participation reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting judicial accountability, protecting the rule of law, and advocating for reforms that restore public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.

Key Insight: The judiciary must be both independent and accountable—our legal future depends on it.

📩 For legal advocacy partnerships and justice reform collaboration, reach out to us at info@liradnigeria.org