Akutah honoured for unwavering commitment to public service at Badagry NBA

..As judges frawn at trend of analyzing court judgments on social media

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Badagry Branch has honoured Dr. Akutah Pius, Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), for his contributions to Nigeria’s maritime sector, outstanding service and dedication to duty.

The recognition was conferred on him during the 10th Law Week and public presentation of the Heritage Bar Journal, held in Lagos.

In his remarks, Dr. Akutah expressed deep gratitude for the honour, noting that the recognition, though unexpected, reflects the value of dedication to duty. He acknowledged the privilege as an act of God and emphasized that he does not take it for granted.

The NSC boss urged members of the public, especially those in public service, to remain committed to their responsibilities and always give their best. “Whatever responsibility you have, put in your very best.  Excellence should be pursued consistently, with or without recognition– this is my advice to those in public service,” he emphasized.

Representing the Chief Judge of Lagos State and chairman of the occasion, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba, Hon. Justice Babafemi Adamson cautioned legal practitioners and the public against the growing trend of analyzing court judgments on social media without understanding the guiding legal principles.

“Without even seeing the full decision of the court, some persons begin to analyse and say all sorts of things,” he said.

“The legal profession is noble, with structures and appropriate channels for grievances. Those dissatisfied with judgments should not turn to social media but to the next higher court.”

He added that the essence of legal practice is to preserve the sanctity of the Constitution:

“Lawyers and even non-lawyers sometimes fault judgments because a similar scenario got a different result. But if the parties fail to establish the principles of a previous case, the court may not apply the same conclusion.”

Akutah and Justice Adamson

Justice Adamson prayed that the NBA Badagry Branch continues to grow stronger and that the legal profession “returns to its original honourable state.

The Chairman of NBA Badagry Branch, Lawal Rashidi, Esq., described Dr. Akutah as a distinguished public servant whose proactive leadership at the NSC aligns with national development priorities.

He noted that Dr. Akutah’s contributions to Nigeria’s maritime sector continue to reinforce his reputation as a respected and visionary leader.

The Law Dinner, Journal Launch, and Award Presentation he noted fostered community engagement: “We appreciate members who’ve contributed to NBA Badagry Branch’s growth. Engage our world-class lawyers,” he said.

The event drew notable attendees, including NBA’s 2nd Vice President Bolatumi Animashaun, Chief Osuala Nwagbara, judges, senior lawyers, and public officials.