—-Warns democracy depends on strong judiciary, better pay for judges

By Dayo Johnson Akure

The President of the Alumni of the Faculty of Law, Ekiti State University, Dr. Femi Ogunlade, has called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s judicial system and a new funding model for education.

The reunion, which doubled as the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM), brought together leading figures in the legal and public sectors, including pioneer Alumni President Barrister John Babaleye and former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Taofeek Abdulsalam, alongside other distinguished members of the class.

Ogunlade said Nigeria’s democratic and development goals hinge on both sectors.

He said this in Akure, Ondo State, during the annual reunion and general meeting of EKSU Law Class of 1997.

The President described the judiciary as a critical pillar of democracy that must be strengthened through deliberate reforms, especially in appointments and welfare.

While noting public concerns over some court rulings, Ogunlade cautioned against politicising judicial decisions. He said courts act strictly on law and evidence.

“The judiciary remains the last hope of the common man, and its integrity must be protected

“What is required is a system that prioritises competence, integrity, and merit in judicial appointments. Only then can public confidence be sustained.”

Ogunlade stressed that poor remuneration and working conditions for judicial officers threaten the independence of the bench.

He said the huge pay gap between private legal practice and judicial service must be addressed to attract and retain top legal talent.

On education, Ogunlade called for a shift from government-dominated funding to a collaborative model involving alumni, the private sector, and other stakeholders.

With current fiscal pressures, he argued, it’s unrealistic to expect government alone to fund tertiary institutions.

He pointed to global best practices where strong alumni engagement drives institutional excellence.

Ogunlade said the reunion, held nearly 30 years after graduation, was a chance to reconnect and push for national impact.

He noted that the Class of 1997 has produced leading figures across law and beyond, showing the power of quality education and shared values.

The alumni body pledged deeper support for EKSU through mentorship, infrastructure projects, and professional partnerships.

He urged graduates nationwide to play active roles in national discourse, saying alumni networks are vital agents of reform.

Earlier, Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Babalola Abegunde, challenged alumni to move beyond past achievements and embrace leadership roles.

“The question is not whether we have a legacy. The question is whether we are providing the leadership that will sustain that legacy.

He added that alumni now hold key positions in Nigeria’s legal and governance structures and must use that influence to strengthen institutions and uphold the rule of law.

“At this stage, we are no longer asking for inclusion; we are directing affairs. That comes with responsibility.

“The reunion ultimately served as more than a nostalgic gathering—it became a platform for policy advocacy, institutional development, and a renewed commitment to shaping both the legal profession and national development.

Also speaking, Prof. Benson Omoleye said the quality of a nation’s justice system depends on the quality of its lawyers.

Omoleye urged alumni to see themselves as custodians of both institutional and national values.

According to him “The quality of lawyers a nation produces will determine the quality of justice it delivers.

In a communiqué issued at the end of the AGM, attended by 30 members—the highest in the association’s history—the alumni resolved to strengthen internal support systems and institutional engagement.

” Establishment of a welfare committee to support members in need, including financial assistance

“Encouragement for members to proactively seek help through the association’s leadership.

” Renewed commitment to supporting the Faculty of Law through donations, prizes, and infrastructure

” The association also resolved to push for an increase in the admission quota allocated to the faculty by the Council of Legal Education into the Nigerian Law School, a figure that has remained unchanged since 1991.

“Members approved amendments to the association’s constitution to reflect current realities, including:

” Provision for periodic review of annual dues based on economic conditions

” Creation of state and city branches where at least five members reside

” Introduction of electronic voting and other flexible electoral processes

“The alumni announced plans to host their 30th anniversary celebration between January and June 2027 in Lagos, signaling a continued commitment to strengthening ties and expanding their impact.