- The Aladeshonyin and Paramount Ruler of Odo-Noforija Kingdom, Oba Dr. Babatunde Olaogun Ogunlaja, has accepted his appointment as Patron of the Nigerian Bar Association, Epe Branch.
- The monarch said traditional rulers must work with the legal profession to promote justice, peaceful dispute resolution and community development.
- Oba Ogunlaja also pledged his support for the NBA Epe Branch as it embraces emerging legal challenges in the digital age.
The Aladeshonyin and Paramount Ruler of Odo-Noforija Kingdom in Epe Division, Lagos State, Oba Dr. Babatunde Olaogun Ogunlaja JP, FMBE, has accepted his appointment as Patron of the Nigerian Bar Association, Epe Branch.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the monarch made this known in his speech of acceptance delivered on Monday, August 17, 2026, during the NBA Epe Branch’s 2026 Law Week and 10th Anniversary celebrations.
EDITOR’S PICK
- How Lagos Achieved 57.4% Exclusive Breastfeeding Rate
- Shaibu Lists Nigeria’s Biggest Security Challenges
- Vote, Protect Your Mandate, Governor Adeleke Urges Residents Ahead of August 15 Polls.
Oba Ogunlaja expressed gratitude and humility over the appointment, describing the honour as a responsibility to support the legal profession and contribute to the promotion of justice, peace and development within Epe and Ibeju-Lekki.
He congratulated members of the NBA Epe Branch for a decade of service to the people and the legal profession, commending their dedication, integrity and commitment to the rule of law.
According to the monarch, the branch’s 10th anniversary represents a significant milestone and an opportunity to reflect on its contributions to society.
He also praised the theme of the 2026 Law Week, titled, “Conventional Court System, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Law in the Digital Age: Balancing Innovation and Justice.”
Oba Ogunlaja said the theme was particularly relevant because traditional institutions operate at the intersection of custom, community and law.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that justice remains firm and accessible while embracing alternative methods of resolving disputes and adapting to technological changes.
The monarch noted that dispute resolution should not always be centred on conflict, adding that development must be pursued without compromising fairness and justice.
He said Law Week provides an avenue for the judiciary, legal practitioners, policymakers, business leaders and communities to engage in discussions on issues affecting society.
According to him, such conversations are important in addressing matters that influence economic growth, peace and development across communities.
“I accept this award and this role not as a title, but as a sacred trust,” the monarch said, pledging to uphold the principles of justice and support peaceful and fair resolution of disputes.
Oba Ogunlaja further pledged to work alongside the NBA Epe Branch as the legal profession navigates the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital age.
He also promised to support efforts aimed at ensuring that the voices and interests of residents of Epe and Ibeju-Lekki remain heard and protected.
The traditional ruler thanked the NBA Epe Branch for considering him worthy of the recognition and congratulated the association on its 10th anniversary.
He expressed optimism that the anniversary would mark the beginning of greater achievements for the branch, while urging members to continue working towards peace, order and prosperity in the communities they serve.
The monarch’s appointment as Patron further strengthens the relationship between the traditional institution and the legal profession in Epe Division, particularly in areas involving justice, community development and peaceful dispute resolution.
FURTHER READING
