Rule of law not option, soul of genuine democracy — NBA
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ungogo Branch, on Monday held its 2025 Law Week in Kano, joining branches across the country in celebrating the profession while reaffirming the centrality of the rule of law to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
SolaceBase reports that the event featured a series of activities held over the course of the week, including prayers, a health walk, sporting competitions, a cocktail party, dinner, and paper presentations — all aimed at promoting reflection, unity, and professional engagement.
Speaking during the ceremony, Chairman of the NBA Ungogo Branch, Barrister Ahmad Abubakar Gwadabe, said the Law Week was more than a tradition; it was “a celebration of our identity, a reaffirmation of our professional calling, and a rare opportunity to reflect deeply on the legal and societal questions that shape our democracy.”
He said the theme of this year’s event, “The Rule of Law in a Democratic Society,” was not just timely but crucial in light of current national realities.
Barrister Gwadabe was quoted as saying, “At a period marked by democratic uncertainties, institutional fragility, and a growing call for social justice. we must remind ourselves that the rule of law is not an option — it is the very soul of any genuine democracy.”
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He warned that without the rule of law, “governance becomes arbitrary, rights are trampled, and power becomes unchecked,” adding that its presence ensures that “societies flourish, institutions gain legitimacy, and the dignity of every citizen is protected.”
The chairman also explained the purpose of the week-long activities, saying, “The week entailed prayers, health walk, sporting competitions, cocktail party, dinner, and paper presentations.
“These were carefully chosen to balance both professional development and unity among members,” he added.
He further highlighted key achievements of the branch under his leadership, including efforts to decongest prisons, push for bail in bailable offences, protect human rights, and foster synergy with the judiciary and legislature.
“We are not done yet. In the coming months, we hope to unveil our proposed ‘Law and Order Summit,’ a high-level platform for dialogue between community leaders, youth groups, law enforcement, and policymakers to address insecurity and youth restiveness in Kano and the broader northern region.”
Representing the Kano State Government, the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, praised the NBA Ungogo Branch for organising the event and described the rule of law as fundamental to justice and good governance.
The SSG stated that, “Democracy without the rule of law is like a body without a soul, lacking purpose, direction, and legitimacy,” he said.
“It serves as the ultimate safeguard that ensures no individual, regardless of status or position, is above the law,” he added.
He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening the justice system through the recruitment of new state counsels, capacity-building, and infrastructure support.
“Justice delayed is not only justice denied,” he said, “but a threat to the very foundation of democratic order,” he further noted.
Also speaking, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Haruna Isa Dederi, represented by Director of Civil Education Usaini Hassan Sulaiman, reiterated Kano State’s commitment to legal reform and judicial independence.
“We take this principle seriously,” he said, highlighting efforts such as the construction of the new Kano State High Court Complex, the enhancement of anti-corruption mechanisms, and the passage of human rights protection laws.
While acknowledging ongoing challenges, he added, “We are committed to overcoming these challenges through continued reforms and collaboration with legal professionals like you.”
The event brought together legal practitioners, government officials, scholars, and civil society actors, who collectively stressed the need to defend and promote the rule of law as a shared responsibility for peace, justice, and democratic progress.
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