By Jimmy Fatunbi
Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has formally entered into a partnership with the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON) to provide free legal services to indigent residents across the Council area. This initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to promoting access to justice, protecting vulnerable populations and enhancing community welfare.
The Executive Chairman, Hon. Moyosore Adebanjo, who represented by the Council Manager, Mr. Abiodun Oshineye, stated that collaboration with the Legal Aid Council represents a significant step toward ensuring that all residents regardless of economic status can obtain timely, reliable and professional legal assistance. He emphasized that many low-income individuals are unable to secure legal representation due to financial constraints, making this intervention both strategic and essential.
“The administration remains committed to upholding justice, fairness, and the protection of fundamental human rights. This partnership will enable our indigent residents to access quality legal services at no cost, thereby promoting equity and social inclusion,” Mr. Oshineye said.
The initiative also aligns with the international advocacy campaign themed ; “End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls,” which seeks to address the rising incidence of online harassment, cyberstalking, digital gender-based violence, identity theft, and other harmful online behaviours. The LCDA reiterated that safeguarding women and girls both offline and online remains a priority of the current administration.
In her goodwill message, the Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch, Mrs. Chinenye Udeh, reaffirmed the readiness of the Association and the Legal Aid Council to work closely with Onigbongbo LCDA to ensure effective service delivery. She highlighted that the partnership will broaden access to legal representation, mediation, counselling and other statutory services provided under the Legal Aid Act.
The free legal services available to residents will cover a wide range of areas, including: Enforcement of fundamental human rights, Gender-based and domestic violence matters, Cyber harassment and digital abuse, Family custody and marital issues, Children’s rights and protection under the Child Rights Act, Tenant–landlord matters under relevant tenancy laws, Criminal and civil cases eligible under the Legal Aid Council mandate
Residents were strongly encouraged not to the remain silent, particularly in cases of gender-based violence, domestic abuse, or child abuse. The Legal Aid Council and the NBA emphasized that violence thrives when victims fail to speak out, urging community members to report cases promptly to the appropriate authorities.
The Association also announced that the legal services will be taken closer to the grassroots to ensure easy accessibility. A dedicated Legal Help Desk will be established within the LCDA to ensure wider coverage.
Representing the Executive Chairman, the Chief of Staff expressed appreciation to the Legal Aid Council, the Nigerian Bar Association, and all stakeholders involved. He reaffirmed the commitment of Hon. Moyosore Adebanjo’s administration to strengthening institutions that promote justice, protect vulnerable groups, and enhance the overall well-being of all residents of Onigbongbo LCDA.
Present at the event are; Management Team of Onigbongbo LCDA, stakeholders, market leaders, women leaders, National youth Council of Nigeria Onigbongbo Chapter, gentlemen of the press and other distinguished guests
