Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, has underscored the importance of mutual respect between the Bar and the Bench, emphasizing its crucial role in maintaining the integrity and functionality of Nigeria’s justice system.

Speaking at the 2025 Law Week of the NBA Katsina Branch, themed “Collaboration Between the Bar, Bench, and Traditional Institutions: A Gateway to Peace, Security, and Development,” Osigwe stressed that the relationship between lawyers and judges must be characterized by civility and decorum, despite occasional disagreements.

He condemned the growing trend of lawyers publicly criticizing court judgments without substantive engagement, warning that such actions risk undermining respect for the judiciary. “We cannot desecrate the temple of justice and expect the public to treat it with reverence,” he cautioned.

The NBA President also highlighted the vital role of traditional institutions in promoting peace and access to justice at the grassroots level, citing their cultural legitimacy and proximity to local communities.

On judicial independence, Osigwe made a passionate appeal to the Katsina State Government, urging them to empower the judiciary through adequate and independent budgetary provisions. “A judiciary that depends on another arm of government for its financial survival cannot truly be free,” he emphasized.

He advised judicial officers to maintain public confidence by refraining from actions that may compromise their image. Osigwe concluded by urging lawyers and judges to recommit to shared values of professionalism, mutual respect, and service to society, expressing confidence that improved collaboration would help address the justice system’s complex challenges.