By Uzair Adam
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ungogo Branch, on Monday flagged off its 2025 Law Week in Kano, joining counterparts across the country in celebrating the legal profession and underscoring the rule of law as fundamental to Nigeria’s democratic future.
The week-long event featured a range of activities — including prayers, a health walk, sporting contests, a cocktail party, dinner, and paper presentations — designed to promote reflection, unity, and professional engagement.
While addressing participants during the ceremony, Chairman of the NBA Ungogo Branch, Barrister Ahmad Abubakar Gwadabe, described the Law Week as more than a routine tradition.
He said 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.”
According to him, the theme of this year’s event, “The Rule of Law in a Democratic Society,” is not only timely but vital, given the current realities in the country.
“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,” he said.
Barrister Gwadabe cautioned that when the rule of law is undermined, governance becomes arbitrary, rights are violated, and power goes unchecked.
He stressed that only its firm presence ensures that “societies flourish, institutions gain legitimacy, and the dignity of every citizen is protected.”
He also spoke on the design of the Law Week activities, noting that they were structured to blend professional development with member bonding.
“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 said.
Highlighting some of the branch’s achievements, Gwadabe mentioned initiatives to decongest prisons, promote bail for bailable offences, defend human rights, and build synergy with the judiciary and legislature.
He further disclosed plans for a forthcoming ‘Law and Order Summit’ — an initiative aimed at facilitating dialogue among community leaders, youth groups, law enforcement, and policymakers to tackle insecurity and youth restiveness in Kano and across the northern region.
Representing the Kano State Government, Secretary to the State Government, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, commended the NBA Ungogo Branch for its efforts.
He described the rule of law as a pillar of justice and good governance.
“Democracy without the rule of law is like a body without a soul — lacking purpose, direction, and legitimacy,” he said, adding that it is the ultimate safeguard that ensures no one, regardless of status or position, is above the law.
He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening the justice system through recruitment of new state counsels, capacity building, and infrastructure support.
“Justice delayed is not only justice denied, but a threat to the very foundation of democratic order,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Haruna Isa Dederi — represented by Director of Civil Education, Usaini Hassan Sulaiman — reiterated the state’s commitment to legal reform and judicial independence.
“We take this principle seriously,” he said, citing efforts such as the construction of a new Kano State High Court Complex, enhancement of anti-corruption systems, and the passage of human rights protection laws.
While acknowledging existing challenges, he assured attendees that the government remains committed to continued reforms and working closely with legal professionals.
The gathering brought together legal experts, government officials, academics, and civil society actors, all of whom echoed the call to safeguard the rule of law as a collective responsibility for peace, justice, and the survival of democracy.