… restate commitment to ensuring access to justice for the less-privileged
By Joseph Albert, Awka
The International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, Anambra State Branch, has held lectures, luncheon and presented awards to deserving individuals, part of activities marking her 2024 FIDA Week in the state.
Honourable Justice Nkemdilim Izuako chaired the event held at FIDA office in Awka, during which a former Chief Judge of the state, Justice Paul Odidigwe, Dean of Law Faculty, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Professor Mrs Ogugua Ikpeze, Anambra State Commissioner for Special Duties, Barrister Beverly Ikpeazu-Nkemdiche, Acting VC, COOU, Professor Kate Omenugha, Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of State CID Awka, Mr. Akin Fakorede, were presented with various categories of award.
Other award recipients at the event were the retired HOD, Optometry, Anambra State Ministry of Health, Dr Mrs Agatha Muoka, Barr. Hilary Asiegbu, Barr. Dr. Uzoma Dioha, Barrister Ifeoma Cyprain-Okonkwo.
In her keynote speech on the theme of the event, “Innovate, adapt, thrive: female lawyers in a changing economy”, a Professor of Law and former High Court Judge, Mrs Nkiru Obumneme-Okafor, noted that the present economic reality in Nigeria is affecting legal practice and practitioners, and urged the female lawyers to, among other things, take advantage of technology and social media in surmounting present economic challenges.
Earlier while declaring the event opened, the Anambra FIDA Chairperson, His Worship, Genevieve Osakwe, said the non-governmental, non-profit-oriented and non-political organization is committed to ensuring adequate and timeous access to justice for women, children and less-privileged people in the state, and have sensitized community leaders on FIDA objectives.
On her part, the Chairperson, 2024 FIDA Week Planning Committee, Barrister Amara Muojeke, noted that the annual event offers opportunity to reflect on FIDA shared values and recognize those who have championed the course of justice and equality in the society, especially for women and children, adding however that many of their cases are resolved in favor of men.
She disclosed that on yearly basis, FIDA Anambra handles over a hundred cases brought by the less-privileged individuals; who they in FIDA often have to address their urgent need for food and shelter before any legal process starts, reason they group needs support to continue and expand their work.
Performance by Law Students of COOU, Igbariam Campus, and Anyabolus added glamour to the event which also featured health talk.
