Chief Justice of Ogun State, Mosunmola Dipeolu

 The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has called on legal practitioners to uphold the rule of law and protect the fundamental human rights of citizens—even when in conflict with traditional practices.

Justice Dipeolu, represented by Justice Adetokunbo Jibodu, made the call on Wednesday while delivering a keynote address at the 5th Memorial Bar Lecture of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Sagamu Branch, held in honour of the late Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Kehinde Sofola (SAN), who died in 2007.

Speaking on the theme, “Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State: Chieftaincy Disputes, Their Effects on the Community, and Legal Protection of Religious Freedom”, Dipeolu noted that the topic was both timely and critical, as it touches on the delicate balance between tradition, law, and individual liberties in a democratic society.

She emphasised that while the 2021 Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State provides a solid legal foundation for the appointment, recognition, and regulation of traditional rulers, its implementation continues to be marred by disputes and challenges, particularly with regard to religious freedom and communal harmony.

“Traditional rulership continues to be an important part of Ogun State’s socio-cultural and governmental landscape,” Dipeolu said. “Though the Obas and Chiefs Law provides a necessary structure, successful conflict resolution that fits with modern realities, particularly the fundamental right to religious freedom, remains a struggle.”

The Chief Judge warned that unresolved chieftaincy disputes erode the social fabric of communities, promote division, and hinder progress. She stressed that protecting constitutional rights, such as religious freedom, should not be viewed as antagonistic to tradition but as a reinforcement of democratic values and individual dignity.

“Chieftaincy issues that go unsolved eat away at the fabric of our communities, impeding progress and encouraging divisiveness. Protecting religious freedom in this context is not an attack on tradition; rather, it affirms the constitutional order that supports our democracy,” she said.

Dipeolu urged lawyers to emulate the late Chief Kehinde Sofola, describing him as a beacon of integrity, legal excellence, and commitment to justice. She called for the meticulous application of the law in resolving chieftaincy disputes and the defence of rights guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.

“Let us honour his memory by committing to the meticulous application of the law, the pursuit of peaceful and just resolutions to chieftaincy issues, and the strong safeguarding of the fundamental freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution,” she said.

Justice Dipeolu concluded by expressing hope for a future where Ogun State’s cherished traditions coexist with the full enjoyment of human rights, fostering peace, unity, and sustainable development.

The lecture was attended by members of the legal community, traditional rulers, government officials, and members of the public, who paid glowing tributes to Chief Sofola’s enduring legacy.