Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called for a collaborative effort among all the arms of government to ensure that the judiciary remains a pillar of justice and the last hope of the citizens.

Sanwo-Olu made the call at a special prayer to mark the commencement of the 2024/2025 Legal Year. The event held at the Lagos Central Mosque, Lagos Island, on Monday.

The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, said the state government was committed to supporting and strengthening the judiciary.

According to him, the government recognises the critical role of the judiciary in maintaining justice and order. He emphasised that the executive arm remained steadfast in its support for the judiciary and would continue to collaborate closely with the judicial arm to ensure swift justice delivery.

“It is our candid view that the judicial arm of government holds a vital responsibility in interpreting the laws, adjudicating civil and criminal matters.

Also, it is saddled with the responsibility of providing mechanisms for alternative dispute resolution,” Sanwo-Olu said. He said hard work had sustained the integrity of the legal system and ensured that the state judiciary remained a beacon of hope for the citizens.

The governor highlighted some significant reforms undertaken by the state judiciary to strengthen the legal system.

“These include establishment of the Small Claims Court, the Special Offences and Sexual Offences Courts, and introduction of e-probate services. “Also, the state judiciary has embarked on construction projects to boost its performance.