The Lagos State governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated his administration’s support for the judiciary and its ongoing reform.

The governor also commended the judiciary on its digitisation of court processes across the state, noting that it has helped reduce delay, brought the judiciary closer to the people, and made it more transparent

Sanwo-Olu disclosed this yesterday at the special thanksgiving service held to mark the opening of the 2024/2025 new legal year held at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina Lagos.

The governor who was represented by his wife, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, reiterated his administration’s support and collaborated more with the judiciary to ensure adequate resources were provided for sustainability.

He commended the judges for upholding justice and the rule of law and the significant strides made by the Lagos judiciary, particularly in the areas of digitalisation, judicial appointments, and training programmes for judges.

According to him, “The vital role you play in interpreting our law, adjudicating civil and criminal matters, and providing mechanisms for alternative dispute resolution is immensely instrumental in achieving an effective justice delivery.

“The construction of new court complexes and the renovation of existing judicial infrastructure, which he noted have fostered a more conducive environment for justice administration.”

He also pointed out the digitalisation of court processes, lauding the success of e-filing systems. He noted that these reforms have helped to eliminate delays in filing cases, ensuring that justice is delivered more swiftly and efficiently.

“I am particularly proud of the digitalisation of the judiciary’s filing processes, which has significantly reduced delays in filing cases,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He emphasised that these reforms are part of a broader effort to ensure that the Lagos judiciary remains a beacon of hope and a model of efficiency for all citizens.

“Our judicial officers have fully embraced these innovations while remaining firmly committed to the timeless values of fairness, equity, and justice,” he stated.

In line with the commitment to improving the efficiency of the judiciary, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the steady increase in the number of judges within the state.

He said, that in 2023, Lagos State appointed 25 new judges, with an additional 13 judges added in May 2024.

“To maintain efficiency in the swift administration of justice, the judiciary has steadily increased the number of judges,” he said.

“As we move forward into the new legal year, I extend my warmest wishes for a successful 2024 and 2025 of continued progress, reform, and justice for all.”

Also, The Diocesan Bishop of the Cathedral, Rt. Revd Ifedola Okupevi delivered a sermon titled “God of Justice, God of Peace” and charged judges and lawyers to uphold truth always.

Okupevi said the book of Exodus chapter 23 verses one to nine spoke about honesty and added that the power of death and life was in the hands of judges.

He urged judges to refrain from being partial or bribery to pervert the course of justice.

“The judiciary is the hope of the citizens in Nigeria, both rich and poor because justice delayed is justice denied,” he said.