President of the African Bar Association (AfBA), High Chief Ibrahim Eddy-Mark, has called on legal practitioners across Africa to remain steadfast in defending constitutional governance, judicial independence and the rule of law, describing the legal profession as “the conscience of society.”
In a goodwill message delivered to participants at the Nigerian Law Society (NLS) Conference, the AfBA President said lawyers have a collective responsibility to protect democratic institutions, uphold access to justice and ensure that constitutional rights remain meaningful for every citizen.
Eddy-Mark noted that the African Bar Association has consistently championed these ideals across the continent through advocacy for judicial independence, human rights protection and the strengthening of legal institutions capable of inspiring public confidence.
He commended the Nigerian Law Society for choosing a conference theme that encourages critical reflection on constitutional and institutional issues affecting not only Nigeria but other African countries facing similar governance challenges. According to him, such conferences provide an important platform for shaping legal thought, influencing public policy and reinforcing democratic institutions.
The AfBA President expressed optimism that the resolutions and recommendations emerging from the conference would contribute significantly to Nigeria’s constitutional democracy while providing valuable guidance for other African jurisdictions.
He also reaffirmed the African Bar Association’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the Nigerian Law Society in advancing justice, promoting human rights, strengthening the legal profession and safeguarding constitutional democracy across the continent.
“As you commence your deliberations, I wish you wisdom in your discussions, courage in your convictions, and success in your resolutions. May this conference inspire renewed dedication to the enduring ideals of justice, constitutionalism, judicial independence, and the rule of law,” Eddy-Mark said.
He concluded by reminding delegates that while constitutions are written documents, constitutional democracy ultimately depends on the integrity of institutions and the courage of those entrusted with preserving them, stressing that the judiciary remains central to that responsibility while the legal profession must continue to stand firm in its defence.
