The Lagos State Ministry of Justice through its agency,the Bureau of the Public Defender formerly known as Office of the Public Defender (OPD), has celebrated 25years of unwavering commitment to justice at a commemorative event, themed “Honouring the Past, Defending the Future,” held on Wednesday 24th of September, 2025 at the Civic Center, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Delivering his goodwill message,Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ably represented by the Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, congratulated the OPD for its steadfast service since its establishment in 2000, describing the OPD as a shining example of Lagos State’s commitment to protecting the rights of the vulnerable.
“The OPD has stood for the voiceless, defended the weak, and offered hope to countless residents whilst making justice accessible to everyone in the State” He said.
Sanwo-Olu expressed pride in the various strides that the State has made in strengthening the agency by expanding its offices to more communities, supporting its governing council and prioritizing access to justice as a pillar of the THEMES+ Agenda.
“Let it be known that we celebrate not only the institution of BPD but also the resilience of its counsel, the courage of its clients and the fate of Lagosians in the justice sector”, the Governor noted.
Earlier in his remarks,the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, underscored the importance of reflecting on OPD’s achievements over the years.
Pedro highlighted the agency’s growth from a modest office into a full-fledged institution that has secured landmark victories in criminal defense, human rights protection, family matters, child rights, and domestic violence cases.
“For 25 years, BPD has embodied the conscience of our justice sector. It has stood in defense of those who could not stand for themselves and has expanded the scope of justice to the grassroots. Today, as we celebrate the past, we must also recommit ourselves to strengthening the BPD to defend the future of justice in Lagos State,” the Attorney-General said.
Delivering his welcome address earlier, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, noted that the theme “Honouring the Past, Defending the Future” aptly captures the essence of the celebration.
He explained that the occasion was not only to mark a milestone, but also to reflect on a noble journey of service, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to justice.
Oyenuga added that from its humble beginnings to its present stature, the Bureau has consistently affirmed that access to justice is a right, not a privilege; one that must be upheld with courage and integrity.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of the Bureau, Mrs. Olubunmi Adesomoju, expressed deep appreciation for the remarkable turnout and support at the anniversary celebration.
She assured that the agency will remain unwavering in its mandate, pledging that BPD will continue to innovate, expand its horizon, and defend the rights of the vulnerable, so that justice in Lagos State remains accessible and meaningful for all.
The event featured goodwill messages from foreign partners, recognition of outstanding staff, and a panel session on the future of public defense in Lagos State.
The celebration also brought together dignitaries and stakeholders from the judiciary sector, representatives of Pepperdine University, USA; Public Interest Law Partnership (PILP), NBA, Parastatal Monitoring Office (PMO), RoLAC, UNICEF, Civil Society Organizations,Directors, Heads of Unit and Counsel in the State Ministry of Justice.
