Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Oyo State Chapter, Mr Ibrahim Lawal, has said there is the need to respect autonomy and rights in the country.
Lawal stated this on Tuesday at the 9th Annual / 5th memorial lecture of L.L. Ali organised by the National Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Oyo State branch.
Lawal, who was speaking with the theme: The Nigerian Constitution, the executive power, state of emergency: The impact on professionals, said the country’s constitution grants the executive considerable authority to maintain order and preserve national security.
On the topic of the lecture, Lawal noted that professionals can safeguard the pillars of democracy, just as he urged Nigerians to do away with quacks in the surveying profession.
He commended the Local Organising Chairman, Mr Gbolagade Adebowale and Secretary, Olalekan Dojutelegan for putting the programme together.
He added that the impact of state of emergency on civic space and civil liberties cannot be over emphasised, saying states of emergency often come with heightened security presence, curfews, and suspension of rights such as freedom of movement or assembly.
The Oyo NBA boss called for public awareness and education for professionals in engaging in civic education to inform citizens of their rights, even under emergency conditions.
“State of emergency must be tempered by constitutionalism, respect for the rule of law, and protection of professional autonomy. In a truly democratic society, emergencies should be addressed not by suspending rights, but by reinforcing the resilience of democratic institutions and the dignity of all citizens, including professionals whose work ensures the continuity, safety, and justice of the nation.
“To preserve democracy, we must remember that the rule of law must never become the first casualty of a crisis.
“The Nigerian constitution seeks to balance the need for effective governance with the imperatives of human rights and democratic accountability. However, the exercise of emergency powers by the executive has often disrupted this balance, with professionals bearing significant risks and restrictions.
“Professionals not only deliver essential services but also safeguard the pillars of democracy. Their autonomy and rights must be respected, even in the face of national emergencies. Conclusively, strengthening institutional checks, refining legal standards, and enhancing professional solidarity are essential to ensuring that Nigeria’s emergency governance remains democratic, lawful, and just.”
In his remarks, the NIS Chairman, Oyo State branch , Alhaji Waheed Lamidi, described the late Ali as a great and outstanding leader.
He disclosed that Ali is late but the legacy he left behind and his contribution to the profession can never be forgotten.
The chairman on the occasion, Mr Adekunle Ali, said late Ali was a man of honour who portrayed the profession as an honourable profession.
“Late Baba Ali was a father to all because of his integrity while alive. Nigerians always complained about whole things in the country but we need the people to execute it right and that is what late Baba Ali emulate.”
Also, Royal father of the Day; Gbonka Balogun, Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Monsur Arulogun said the lecture is a gathering to celebrate a life of excellence, service and legacy.
“Late Baba Ali was not only a giant in the surveying profession, but also a proud son of Ibadan, the Mogaji of Oroye family of Oka-Ola, Ibadan. His life reminds us that true greatness lies in combining professional excellence with community leadership and service to humanity.”
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