The Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, Anglican Communion, Right Rev. James Odedeji, has urged judges and lawyers to uphold integrity, fairness and justice as they begin the new legal year.
Odedeji gave the charge while delivering a sermon titled “Faithfulness” during the 2026/2027 New Legal Year Special Service of the Lagos State Judiciary at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos.
Drawing from Leviticus 19:15, the bishop called on members of the legal profession to avoid favouring wealthy or influential people at the expense of those who are less privileged. He stressed that justice should be administered fairly and should not depend on a person's wealth, social standing or connections.
Odedeji warned that justice should not be treated as something reserved for people who can afford to pay for it. He urged judges and lawyers to regard their professional responsibilities as a trust that carries serious consequences for members of the public.
According to him, decisions made within the justice system can affect people's liberty, property, reputation and, in some circumstances, their lives. He therefore urged judicial officers and lawyers to remember the responsibility attached to their positions.
The bishop also cautioned lawyers against measuring professional success solely by the number of cases they win or the positions they attain. He said professional competence should be accompanied by strong character and a commitment to ethical conduct.
He further warned judicial officers against using their authority to intimidate, dominate or humiliate others. According to him, occupying a position of authority does not make other people inferior, and those entrusted with public responsibilities remain accountable for how they exercise their powers.
Odedeji also reminded lawyers that a legal brief entrusted to them represents a responsibility, just as judicial office represents a public trust. He urged members of the profession to approach their duties with humility and faithfulness.
The bishop's message came as the Lagos State Judiciary commenced another legal year, providing an opportunity for members of the Bar and Bench to reflect on their responsibilities and the importance of public confidence in the justice system.
He urged judges and lawyers to remain committed to justice, mercy and humility, stressing that positions of authority are temporary while the consequences of professional decisions can have lasting effects.
Odedeji concluded by encouraging members of the legal profession to maintain integrity even when their actions are not subject to public scrutiny, saying that character and faithfulness should remain central to their work.
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