Just-concluded National Executive Council, NEC, meeting of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, left an indelible mark on Ondo State, proving that beyond the grandeur of legal deliberations, honorary recognitions and high-profile engagements, tangible benefits of the gathering are profound and far-reaching.
While reviewing the programme and its impact, Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo (SAN) expressed appreciation to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his visionary leadership, pragmatic approach and unwavering commitment to making history with this landmark event.
According to Ajulo, the warm hospitality extended to visitors, coupled with witnessing the rapid strides that Ondo State has made in legal reforms, infrastructural development and governance excellence, has set a benchmark for other states to emulate.
The leadership of the NBA commended Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to judicial development, acknowledging that other states have much to learn from his forward-thinking approach to legal infrastructure.
In reviewing the meeting, Dr Ajulo raised serious concerns over the escalation of cyberbullying and abuse of free speech laws, noting that rather than being utilised as a tool for constructive governance engagement, some individuals weaponise these laws to launch malicious attacks, character assassination and defamation, especially against public officials.
“The most unfortunate reality is that social media and online platforms have become tools for some individuals to engage in reckless falsehoods, cyber harassment and deliberate misinformation in the name of free speech,” he said.
The attorney-general highlighted the detrimental impact of such defamatory narratives on governance, investment and development, particularly when public officers who represent the state at crucial business meetings are unfairly maligned.
“When you assassinate the character of those at the forefront of governance, you send a wrong signal to investors and stakeholders. How can we attract development if the very individuals championing progress are being unjustly discredited?” the AG queried.
Ajulo reaffirmed Governor Aiyedatiwa-led administration’s unwavering commitment to democratic values, emphasising that while government upholds free speech, it would not condone cyber harassment, defamation or malicious propaganda.
He made it clear that where necessary, government would apply sanctions in full accordance with the law, insisting that justice must take its course.
However, he assured that as governance operates within established legal frameworks, strengthened by the support of the people, Ondo State government, would ensure that order prevails and the integrity of institutions remain intact.
He stressed that strict enforcement of cybercrime laws would commence in the state and any individual or group found wanting of targeted harassment, cyberbullying or defamatory content would face the full weight of the law.
Ajulo noted that government is prepared to act swiftly and decisively to protect the dignity of all citizens and uphold the integrity of governance.
He said monitoring systems have been put in place and the state will not hesitate to prosecute offenders who cross the boundaries of responsible speech.
