The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has cautioned Nigerians against assigning political motives to judicial issues, emphasizing the importance of upholding the Constitution over emotions or partisan views.
Speaking in Lagos on Thursday during the presentation of “Tribulations and Trophies, Bola Ajibola in His Own Words!”, Fagbemi highlighted the need for legal discourse to remain grounded in facts and law. The event honored the late Bola Ajibola, former Attorney-General and Judge at the International Court of Justice, whose autobiography recounts his distinguished career and contributions to Nigeria’s legal system.
Commenting on the ongoing debate around emergency rule in Rivers State and the appointment of Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Administrator, Fagbemi stressed the importance of legal interpretation over public opinion.
“When matters like this arise, people should take time to understand the law instead of relying on emotions or political affiliations,” he said. “Since the issue is already before the court, we must allow the judicial process to take its course without undue interference.”
Fagbemi also praised Ajibola as a reform-driven legal icon known for his integrity and dedication to truth. “He was a man of great character and left behind a legacy of law reforms and institutional development,” he added, urging lawyers to emulate Ajibola’s example.
The event drew prominent figures including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and ex-Lagos Governor Babatunde Fashola, among others.
