By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan
The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan Branch, Mr Ibrahim Lawal, has raised concerns over what he described as “the rapid deterioration of Oyo State’s security architecture”.
Lawal urged Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and security agencies to urgently rebuild the state’s security system before matters escalate.
The bar chairman made the call on Thursday at a news conference held at the Afe Babalola NBA House, Ibadan, to mark the 2025 NBA Ibadan Law Week.
According to him, Oyo State, once regarded as one of the safest in Nigeria, is gradually losing its security advantage due to weakened vigilance and failing security structures.
“Oyo State used to be the most secure state in Nigeria; the security architecture was very tight, but I think the present administration has relaxed, and that’s the effect we are seeing.
“We can only urge the government to come together, look at the security architecture, and return it to where it was so we can build on it,” he said.
His comments followed the recent kidnapping of a young woman in Ibadan, an incident he described as a worrying sign that insecurity is drawing dangerously closer to residents.
“We know the security situation is bad. The Federal Government and the military are doing their best, but the state government must sit down and look for the best solutions.
“It is getting very close to us. The kidnapping of the lady shows that nobody is safe,” he warned.
Lawal also appealed to the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State to urgently overhaul the state’s security framework.
He adds, “The Commissioner of Police must rejig the security architecture of the state. We must make sure that lives and properties are safe.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), however, recalls that the police had confirmed that the female victim was released on Wednesday evening.
NAN reports that the 2025 NBA Ibadan Law Week, which will run from Friday, Dec.12 to Dec.17, is expected to feature a blend of intellectual discussions, social engagements, and professional development sessions.
The Chairman, Planning Committee and former Oyo State Attorney-General, Oluseun Abimbola (SAN), explained that the Law Week was designed as both a professional and social platform for lawyers.
“This is not just a business or working event alone. It is also a social event.
“We will be receiving those newly admitted into the profession. We have invited the governor, members of the executive council, and several dignitaries,” he said.
Speaking on the theme of the event, Abimbola highlighted the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence, cryptocurrency, blockchain, and the cyber economy on business operations and legal practice.
“AI is an evolution and a revolution. One can propose legislation, but the boundaries of AI are still unfolding,” he noted.
According to him, while technological innovation is opening up new opportunities, it is also presenting fresh regulatory challenges.
“These are advancements across various fields; it is not so much about creating too many new laws, but about growing legislation and regulations in a way that allows business to expand,” he said.
Abimbola adds that although the Central Bank of Nigeria has begun regulating cryptocurrency, the process remains ongoing.
According to him, regulation is still evolving, and that’s why there are e-bank structures.
NAN reports that the Law Week will open with a soccer competition, followed by many other activities for the days ahead.
Members will gather on Sunday for a thanksgiving service at St. Anne’s Church, Molete, before attending The Engagement, a stage play by the University of Ibadan’s Department of Theatre Arts.
The formal opening ceremony will hold on Monday, with renowned legal scholar Prof. Yusuf Ali (SAN) scheduled to deliver the keynote address.
The programme will also feature a medical outreach. Tuesday will host a panel session on Lawyer Ethics and Practice, chaired by Justice Bolaji Yusuf of the Court of Appeal, while Wednesday’s discussions will focus on taxation, led by tax expert Teslim Akinsola (Onigegewura).
The association will also hold an essay competition in honour of the late journalist, Segun Aderibigbe, sponsored by Abimbola, while the annual bar dinner will be chaired by Chief Bolaji Ayorinde (SAN).
Special awards will also be presented to notable individuals, including Hammed Raji, Mr Dotun Sanusi, among others, in recognition of their contributions to legal development and societal growth.
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