Women Judges: Changing the Narrative of Justice Delivery

It was a gathering of a stellar faculty of women judicial officers and senior female Lawyers, for the Annual South-West Zonal Workshop of the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria (NAWJN). The first in its series, this year’s Workshop which held at the Marriott Hotel, G.R.A. Ikeja, Lagos, was themed “Breaking the Leadership Barriers for Women in the Legal Profession”, and it was chaired by the President of NAWJN, Honourable Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, JSC, CFR who also represented the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON. Onikepo Braithwaite who moderated the first Panel session, Jude Igbanoi and Steve Aya who covered the proceedings, report

The main event was preceded with a welcome cocktail on Wednesday, where attendees and heads of courts from Lagos, Ondo, Ekiti, Osun and Ogun State had a meet-and-greet hosted by the Chief Judge of Lagos State. 

‘There is No Gender Disparity in Lagos Judiciary’, Lagos CJ

In his opening remarks, the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba disclosed that there is no gender disparity in the Lagos State Judiciary. He said that the State Judiciary is an open place where promotions are based on hard work, and the ability to carry out the task at hand is the sole determinant.

Justice Alogba said this in his remarks, as the Chief Host of the South-West Zonal Workshop of the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria (NAWJN).

Speaking on the Theme ‘Breaking the Leadership Barriers for Women in The Legal Profession’, the Lagos CJ further said “The door has always been open in Lagos Judiciary for women, so there is no need for them to break any ceiling. If I need to approve 20 Judges and all 20 most qualified are women, I will send their names’’.      

Also speaking at the event the National President of the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria (NAWJN) Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, JSC, CFR said that there is still much to be done in the journey towards gender parity in Nigeria.

“There are still impediments to women becoming senior judicial officers in Nigeria despite the achievement, and we need to work hard to make sure that such is removed’’, she added.

Justice Kekere-Ekun, JSC further lauded the achievement of women in the nation’s Judiciary, stressing that the achievements of these women have contributed positively to the nation’s image. “Nigeria as of today has the highest number of female Judges in Africa.’’

In her welcome address, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Hon. Justice Olutoyin Ipaye in her welcome address, disclosed that the mandate for the workshop was given by the National President of NAWJN, Hon Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere –Ekun, JSC, CFR. Additionally, she said that the choice of March was very deliberate, given the fact that celebrations for International Women’s Day had taken place earlier on March 8th, International Women’s Judges Day on March 10th, Mothering Sunday day which was held on the first Sunday of March.

That women’s representation in court is very important, as women enhance the legitimacy of the court, therefore, to achieve justice, we need more women in justice.

In his remarks at the event, the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu, said that the Lagos State Government believes in gender equality, which is why in the State Civil Service, everybody is given equal treatment. 

The Governor further stated that just like the State Judiciary, the number of female Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service is very high.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, also a Lawyer, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Governor further added that, it is heartwarming to be amid beautiful amazons who have broken so many barriers and jinxes in the legal profession to become accomplished Judges.

There were goodwill messages from the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro, who thanked the women for their selfless and courageous service to the nation. He then wished them well, in their deliberations.

Other Associations and Bodies who attended the Workshop and sent goodwill messages, were the Nigerian Bar Association both Lagos and Ikeja Branch represented by Mr Olabisi Makanjuola and Mr Seyi Olawumi; the Body of Senior Advocates (BOSAN) represented by Deacon Dele Adesina, SAN, who delivered the goodwill message of the body. Other bodies were the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Lagos State Branch, represented by its President, Mrs Chinwe Afobi; the Academia, represented by Prof Walter Boledeoku of the University of Lagos, Faculty of Law, and the African Women Association, Nigeria, represented by its President, Mrs Caroline Ibharuneafe.

 ‘Judge Cases on Merit and Not Technicalities’, Says Keynote Speaker, Adefope-Okojie, JCA (Rtd)

Nigerian Judges have been urged to deliver their judgements based on the merit of the case and not on the strength of technicalities, as this will give such judgements the confidence and respect of the public, and stand the test of time, because they cannot be questioned. 

This call was made by Hon. Justice Oludotun Adebola Adefope-Okojie, while delivering the Keynote Address at the first South-West Zonal Workshop of the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria (NAWJN), hosted by the Lagos State Judiciary at the Ballroom of Marriott Hotel, Ikeja.

Speaking to the theme, Justice Adefope-Okojie said that Breaking leadership barriers is similar to breaking through the glass ceiling placed over a woman, preventing her from reaching the highest levels, regardless of her accomplishments and merit. She maintained that there are unwritten rules and decisions made under the influence of unconscious biases that stand as obstacles put in the way of women’s career advancement, in the form of strictly defined corporate policies.

“In our country, the leadership barrier in a few instances could very well be where you’re from, your tribe, your religion. Also, if you’re of childbearing age, you may face being by-passed for promotion, as few organisations want to pay salaries for women on constant maternity leave. Sexual harassment is also a real issue, encountered by not a few women on their upward trajectory. It’s because of these barriers that women are more likely to face restricted access, limited opportunities, and lower compensation which prevents them from gaining promotions or leadership opportunities.’’

The retired Court of Appeal Justice further stated  the importance of breaking the leadership barriers are many, but  stated provision of much-needed diversity, fresh voices, and different perspectives to the profession, leading to better decision-making, innovation, and fairness; provision of role models and mentors for aspiring female legal professionals, inspiring and motivating them to overcome obstacles and pursue their ambitions; equality of access and conducive environment for career advancement, leadership roles and professional development for women, Women’s leadership in law, identifies and addresses gender-based discrimination and ensures that specific interests and priorities are represented, and Women in leadership, because of their physiological make-up are more humane and caring. They are also generally less susceptible to corruption, thus, bringing about good governance.

While celebrating the achievement of women in the legal profession which is generally seen as a male-dominated field, Justice Okojie saluted the significant progress made with women making outstanding and remarkable strides in the legal field. and rising to various leadership positions in the various sectors of the legal profession.

“Nigeria has had and still has a significant number of women Judges and also females heading the judiciaries, right up to the Apex Court and, by God’s grace, another imminent female Chief Justice of the Federation. We also have had female Attorneys-General; we have women manning law chambers that rival the best male chambers. There are female CEOs of prominent companies and Banks, numerous Company Secretaries, Deans of Faculties, Professors, etc. Out of about 673 living Senior Advocates of Nigeria between 1975 and 2023, about 33 of them are women’’. 

Justice Okojie then challenged the women to work hard and be leaders in whatever capacity they find themselves, stating that: “Leadership does not have to be the topmost position, otherwise few women will be classed as leaders. Women who have broken the glass ceiling in this context, are women who have attained a position of influence in any organisation’’.

“In breaking the glass ceiling, we often have to make choices between family and advancement at work. Your home front is very important, as there is no eventual pleasure in attaining a leadership position only to fail in the home. Once the home front is settled, half the battle is won’’, she added.

“Sexual harassment, in a few cases, may present itself as an obstacle to breaking the leadership barrier. It must be dealt with firmly, by rejection of the harassment and recourse to the Organisation’s Handbook and Procedure provided, where necessary, or a report made to the authorities. It should never be condoned, as succumbing to it may have no end and may be a recurrent feature, in the bid to sustain the position. A problem will arise, however, where the perpetrator is the employer or a person in authority. This may, in the worst-case scenario, when all else fails, painfully necessitate resigning from the institution’’. 

“To break the leadership barrier, you must be the best that you can be, and it has to be intentional. Whether we like it or not, we’re in a man’s world. Except in a world of mediocrity, nobody is going to give you what you’re not able to handle’’ .Hon. Justice Adefope-Okojie further added.

 Mentors, Sponsors, Family, Friends, and Patience is Important in Leadership Quest

Discussants at the just concluded first South-West Zonal Workshop of the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria (NAWJN) stated that for women to get to the leadership positions they aspire to, mentorship, sponsorship, a supportive spouse if married, family, friends, patience, cool-headedness and above all faith in God is needed. 

The discussants spoke from their experience of how they made it to their top leadership positions in the legal profession, either as senior Lawyers or Academicians or Judges, pointing out that the role of the above-mentioned elements can not be overstated. 

In the first Panel session which was Chaired by Hon. Justice Oyebisi Omoleye, and Moderated by Mrs Onikepo Braithwaite, all the Panelists described their journeys to the top. Justice Oluwatoyin Abodunde, the President of the Ekiti State Customary Court of Appeal, who was the only female Judge in Ekiti from 2008-2022 (there are now three other female Judges) spoke of the need to be focused and have set mapped out goals, mentors and sponsors. Narrating her experience, she said gender based discrimination is deeply rooted in our culture and traditions, but to overcome it women, must trust God, and be patient.

Mrs Fummi Quadri, SAN, on her part, spoke of the strength she got from her husband and family, which according to her, is indispensable. She took the audience through the stages of law reporting – collection of judgements, reading and editing, printing and finally, marketing. She stated that carving a niche for herself as a female in the male dominated area of law reporting, had made her name popular nationwide. 

Also speaking along the same lines by underscoring the importance of mentorship and sponsorship, Prof Foluke Dada said her father and husband not only supported her, but gave her the wings to fly high as a Lawyer. She also spoke briefly, about the gender bias she experienced.

The celebrated, well-known Chartered Arbitrator, Mrs Funmi Roberts, spoke about how she had to work for a law firm for free for some years, just to be mentored and get the needed experience. She also spoke about the importance of planning, regular self analysis, and the need to be mentally sound in all that we do, urging all Lawyers, Judges, and everyone present to take good care of themselves health-wise, especially the mental side. She stressed upon the fact that judicial officers must prepare themselves mentally, for life post-retirement. 

Speakers in the second-panel session chaired by Hon. Justice (Dr) Mosunmola Dipeolu, the Chief Judge of Ogun State and Moderated by Hon. Justice Efunkumbi Oyefeso, also to the audience via the same line, with Justice Olabisi Femi-Segun, stating that she got where she is today by divine providence, noting that while she knew she wanted to be a Judge, she knew nothing about getting to that position until God worked it out for her.

Also speaking, Mrs Abimbola Akeredolu, SAN, a former Attorney-General of Ogun State, said what drew her to the legal profession was her deep resentment for injustice, but her first calling was French. She also pointed to divine grace for taking her to where she is today, while also giving due credit to her family.

Mrs Ajoke Layi-Babatunde spoke on the need to have a strong family support system, which is what helped her move forward.   

On her part, Mrs Folashade Alli, SAN, spoke about her family background in law, and how being the daughter of a well-known Lawyer, Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, gave her all the tools needed to became an excellent Lawyer.  However, she too restated the role her family and friends played in getting to where she is today.

Mrs Folashade Aladeniyi, who is the current and first female NBA Ibadan Branch Chairman in close to 70 years, emphasised the need for patience and cool-headedness, while working hard towards your goal. She also urged women in the legal profession, to assist and mentor other women who will someday take over from them. 

Communiqué

THE SOUTH WEST ZONAL WORKSHOP OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN JUDGES OF NIGERIA (NAWJN)

• THEME: BREAKING LEADERSHIP BARRIERS FOR WOMEN IN THE LEGAL PROFESSION

• VENUE:  THE  MARRIOTT HOTEL, GRA, IKEJA, LAGOS STATE

• DATE:  14TH MARCH, 2024

The Two-Day South West Zonal Workshop of the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria was held on the 13th – 14th March 2024 in Lagos State.

In line with the Women in Leadership in Law (WILIL) initiative of the International Association of Women Judges, to work out effective strategies to overcome the barriers confronting women in leadership positions in the profession, the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria decided to hold workshops in the six geo-political zones of the country, to provide a roadmap that will lead to the enhancement of women in leadership in the Judiciary and other fields of endeavour. 

The South-West geopolitical zone Workshop with the theme: ‘Breaking Leadership Barriers for Women in the Legal Profession’ commenced with a welcome cocktail hosted by the Honourable Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Olanrewaju Alogba. 

The Workshop was in two parts: The Opening Session and the Working Session, which comprised of the Keynote Address and two Panel Sessions.  

The Opening session included a Welcome Address by the Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Hon. Justice Olutoyin Ipaye; Opening address by President NAWJN, Hon. Justice K.M.O. Kekere-Ekun JSC CFR, remarks by the Chief Host, the Honourable Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem O. Alogba. 

The Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin delivered the goodwill message of the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide O. Sanwo-Olu.

Goodwill messages were also delivered by the following: Mr Lawal Pedro, SAN, the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice; Prof Ige Bolodeoku, the Dean of Law, University of Lagos; Prof Ayo Atsenuwa, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos; Hon. Justice Binta Nyako, President, International Association of Women Judges; representative of the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN), Deacon Dele Adesina, SAN; President, International Federation of Women Lawyers, Lagos State Branch, President Women Lawyers Association, Lagos State Branch, and Chairman, Nigeria Bar Association, Lagos and Ikeja Branch.    

The Keynote Address was delivered by Hon. Justice Oludotun Adefope-Okojie JCA. (Rtd). It was titled: “Women in Legal Profession: Breaking the Glass Ceiling”.

Dr Chinasa Amadi delivered a brief health talk to the participants. 

There were two panel sessions to discuss the theme of the workshop: Breaking Leadership Barriers for Women.

The first Panel Session was chaired by Hon. Justice Oyebisi Omoleye, JCA, and moderated by Mrs Onikepo Braithwaite.

The Panelists were Hon. Justice Oluwatoyin Abodunde, President, Customary Court of Appeal, Ekiti State; Mrs Funmi Quadri, SAN, Partner, Funmilayo Quadri,  SAN & Co.; Professor Foluke Dada, Dean College of Law, Caleb University, Lagos State and Mrs Funmi Roberts, Chartered Arbitrator, 

The Second Panel Session was chaired by Hon. Justice (Dr) Mosunmola Dipeolu, the Chief Judge of Ogun State and moderated by Hon. Justice Efunkumbi Oyefeso. The Panelists were Hon. Justice Olabisi Femi-Segun, President, Customary Court of Appeal, Ogun State; Mrs Abimbola Akeredolu, SAN, Partner Banwo & Ighodalo; Mrs Adejoke Layi-Babatunde, DCEO, Lawbreed Publications; Mrs Folashade Aladeniyi, Chairperson, Nigeria Bar Association, Ibadan Branch, Oyo State and Mrs Folashade Alli, SAN, Principal Partner, Folashade Alli & Co. 

The Local Organising Committee for the Event was Chaired by Hon. Justice O. Atinuke Ipaye the HAJ1 of Lagos State Judiciary. The  members of the Committee and Coordinators of sessions were: Hon. Justice Modupe Nicol-Clay; Hon Justice Josephine Adenike Coker; Hon. Justice Olajumoke Pedro; Hon. Justice Adenrera Adeyemi; Hon. Justice Iyabode Oshodi and Hon. Justice Mosunmola Balogun. 

The following are the highlights of the decisions from various discussions and presentations:

1. The Workshop emphasised the importance of Mentoring, sponsorship and the need for women seeking advancement in the legal profession to set goals and embrace mentoring.

2. Both sponsorship and mentoring have been identified, as being very beneficial to propelling women upwards. However, a lot more attention is still required in the area of sponsorship.

3. The role of support of family, in attaining full potential for women in pursuit of leadership is vital.

4. Passion, zeal and resilience play vital roles in breaking barriers and attaining leadership positions.

5. Women in leadership must be committed to working hard, smart and dedicated to service, as well as sacrifices that come with it.

6.  A self assessment of SWOT analysis and goal setting, are significant tools to determine and overcome barriers.

7. Societal landscape has changed, and opportunities given to women have increased. The challenge of gender bias, is gradually blurring out.

8. Women must be intentional and deliberate about mentorship, and mentorship programmes should be institutionalised.

9. A formidable way of breaking the glass ceiling, is by Women in higher places being supportive of other Women. 

 10. Need for mentees to actively engage in the mentoring process.