NBA Eti-Osa Reflects on the Significance of Lady Justice During Law Week Celebration
NBA Eti-Osa Reflects on the Significance of Lady Justice During Law Week Celebration
As preparations gather momentum for Law Week 2026, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Eti-Osa Branch, has reiterated its commitment to promoting justice, professional ethics, and the rule of law.
In a statement released to our heritage Reporter online by Banji Alabi Esq ahead of the June 5–11 celebration, the association reflected on the enduring significance of the Statue of Justice, popularly known as Lady Justice, describing it as a powerful symbol of fairness, impartiality, accountability, and the ideals upon which legal systems around the world are built.
The statement also outlined key focus areas for the annual event and called on stakeholders to renew their dedication to strengthening Nigeria’s justice system.
Full statement reads:
PRESS STATEMENT
Nigerian Bar Association, Eti-Osa Branch
Law Week 2026 | June 5th – 11th
The Significance of the Statue of Justice: A Reminder of Our Duty to the Rule of Law
The Nigerian Bar Association, Eti-Osa Branch, is pleased to mark Law Week 2026 from June 5th to 11th. One of the highlights of the celebration is reaffirming our collective commitment to justice, the rule of law, and professional integrity.
As part of this celebration, we reflect on the symbol that stands in nearly every courtroom across the world—the Statue of Justice, commonly known as Lady Justice.
Why Lady Justice Matters in Our Courts
The image of a woman holding scales and a sword, often blindfolded, is not mere decoration. It is a 2,000-year-old legal symbol drawn from the Greek goddess Themis and the Roman goddess Justitia, representing the ideals upon which our legal system rests:
Impartiality
The blindfold signifies that justice must be administered without fear, favor, or prejudice. Wealth, status, gender, ethnicity, and political affiliation must not influence the outcome of any case before the court.
Balance and Fair Hearing
The scales represent the careful weighing of evidence and arguments from all sides. Justice demands that every party be heard and that decisions rest on facts and law, not emotion or bias.
Authority and Enforcement
The sword symbolizes the power of the law to enforce judgments and uphold order. It reminds us that justice without enforcement remains an idea.
Dignity and Accountability
Lady Justice stands as a constant reminder to lawyers, judges, and litigants that the law is above all persons. It challenges us to pursue truth and fairness, even when it is inconvenient.
Our Commitment During Law Week 2026
As NBA Eti-Osa celebrates Law Week, we use this moment to renew our pledge to uphold these principles in practice. This year’s activities will focus on legal education, pro bono services, engagement with the bench and bar, and public discourse on access to justice in Lagos.
These focus areas are among several other critical issues to be addressed and considered during the week, as we engage stakeholders on the broader challenges and opportunities facing the administration of justice in our society.
A Personal Invitation
As Chairman of the Law Week Committee, I extend a personal invitation to all members of the legal profession, the general public, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to join us during this week of reflection and engagement.
Together, we will build a nation where law and order reign supreme, and where every Nigerian has equal opportunity to excel in their chosen career and exercise freedom of choice without fear or hindrance.
We call on all participants to look beyond the symbol and live its meaning. A courtroom without integrity, a lawyer without ethics, and a society without respect for the rule of law render the statue hollow.
May this Law Week strengthen our resolve to build a justice system that works for every Nigerian.
Signed
Banji Alabi, Esq.
Chairman, Law Week Committee
NBA Eti-Osa Branch
17th May 2026
