BENIN-CITY: The Oba of Benin, His Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku’Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, has urged Nigerian legal scholars and practitioners to uphold judicial independence, integrity and truth, stressing that the judiciary remains a critical pillar of democracy.
The monarch made the call when members of the League of Luminaries, an association operating under the umbrella of the Nigerian Law School Class of 1984, paid a courtesy visit to the Benin Palace.
The delegation comprised Nigerians with professional backgrounds in law, engineering, science, politics and other fields, including members based in the diaspora.
The Oba urged members of the legal profession to deploy their knowledge and years of experience toward strengthening Nigeria’s judicial system and preserving institutional memory.
According to him, lawyers and judicial officers must remain committed to truth and justice despite the pressures that may accompany their responsibilities.
The monarch described the judiciary as a cornerstone of democracy and urged legal practitioners to remain firm in the discharge of their duties. When you are giving your decisions, stand by the truth without fear or favour of anybody. Stand by the truth,” the Oba said.
He acknowledged that perfection may be difficult but maintained that those entrusted with judicial responsibilities should continually strive to uphold honesty, fairness and integrity.
Oba Ewuare II also emphasised the traditional description of the judiciary as the last hope of the common man.
He encouraged members of the legal profession to protect public confidence in the judicial system by ensuring that truth and justice remain central to their work. The judiciary is the last hope of the common man, as they say. Please hold onto that strongly,” he said.
The monarch’s remarks were contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Osaigbovo Iguobaro.
The Oba welcomed the delegation to the Benin Palace and described the visit as an indication of respect for the traditional institution and the cultural heritage of the Benin Kingdom.
He thanked the members of the group for seeking collaboration and maintaining a relationship with the palace.
The monarch also prayed for the continued wellbeing and success of the delegation.
Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for the group’s annual general meeting in Benin City, Adekunle Edeki, explained why the association selected Benin City for its 2026 gathering.
Edeki described Benin City as a historic centre of Black civilisation and highlighted the city’s cultural significance to the group.
He said the Nigerian Law School Class of 1984 had previously held its reunion in Dallas, United States, but decided to bring the 2026 gathering to Benin City.
The reunion is being held under the theme Re-union Royal 2026.
Edeki also commended Oba Ewuare II for his years on the throne and pledged the group’s collaboration with the palace as preparations continue for the monarch’s 10th coronation anniversary in October.
He said the decision to visit the palace was also informed by the group’s desire to pay homage to the traditional ruler and recognise the historical significance of the Benin Kingdom.
Edeki urged the group to deepen its relationship with the palace while celebrating the cultural heritage of the Benin people.
The monarch’s appeal comes amid continuing national discussions about the importance of judicial independence, professional ethics and public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.
For legal practitioners and scholars, judicial integrity remains closely connected to the principles of fairness, independence and adherence to the rule of law.
Oba Ewuare II therefore urged members of the legal profession to use their experience and influence to strengthen these principles and contribute to the stability of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
