The Lagos State Ministry of Justice, through its Bureau of the Public Defender (formerly Office of the Public Defender), has commemorated 25 years of providing free legal representation and safeguarding the rights of the vulnerable.
EpeInsights gathered that the anniversary celebration, themed “Honouring the Past, Defending the Future,” was held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, praised the agency for its consistent impact since its establishment in 2000. He described the OPD as “a shining example of Lagos State’s commitment to protecting the rights of the vulnerable.”
“The OPD has stood for the voiceless, defended the weak, and offered hope to countless residents while making justice accessible to all,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s support for the agency, noting ongoing efforts to expand its reach across communities in line with the THEMES Plus Agenda.
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), reflected on the agency’s evolution from a small office into a formidable institution that has recorded major wins in criminal defence, child rights protection, domestic violence cases, and human rights advocacy.
“For 25 years, OPD has embodied the conscience of our justice sector. As we celebrate the past, we must also recommit to defending the future of justice in Lagos State,” he said.
Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, said the celebration was both a milestone and a moment of reflection on “a noble journey of service and sacrifice.”
Director of the Bureau, Mrs. Olubunmi Adesomoju, thanked stakeholders for their support and pledged that the agency would continue to evolve to meet emerging needs.
The ceremony featured goodwill messages from international partners, awards to outstanding staff, and a panel discussion on the future of public defence in Lagos.
Attendees included representatives from the judiciary, Pepperdine University (USA), Public Interest Law Partnership (PILP), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Parastatal Monitoring Office (PMO), RoLAC, UNICEF, and various civil society organisations.
