The Enugu State Government has charged professional associations in the state to support its programmes and policies for the rapid growth of the state economy.
The governor of the state, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, gave the charge while addressing members of the Eastern Bar. Forum at Universal Hotel, Enugu.
Governor Ugwuanyi who was represented by his deputy, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, called on the members of the Bar to reform some of their roles in the area of speedy dispensation of justice, enhancement of access to justice, curbing of excessive litigation and the elimination of abuses in the system of administration of justice for all and sundry among other roles for the benefit of mankind.
According to him, “We would like to use this forum to call on professional Associations like the EBF to not only support development of programmes of government but to assist the government in developing an effective master plan to tackle the cankerworms of kidnapping, armed robbery, political thuggery, pipeline vandalisation among others, all of which as we know, are adversely affecting the socio-economic life of the region.
He told members of the Bar that the reform and other measures had become necessary in view of the prevailing harsh economic conditions in the country occasioned by the negative developments in the oil sector adding that the legal profession which is the pillar and hub that upholds the rule of law is expected to maintain order and stabilize the society.
Earlier in an address, the president, Eastern Bar Forum (EBF) Justice John Nnamani, said the meeting was organized for members to deliberate on the spirit and strength of the legal profession with particular focus on the Eastern Bar Forum pointing out that, this led to the hard work of the practitioners and rapid development of the country.
Justice Nnamani commended the government of Enugu State for its encouragement to the members as well as the leadable programmes put in place for the association.
