By Onwa Ekor
Cross River governor, Prince Bassey Otu, has called on Christian lawyers in the nation to uphold justice with humility, integrity and an unwavering commitment to God.
He also reminded them that every position of authority remains a sacred trust bestowed by the Almighty God, hence must be discharged with wisdom and accountability.
Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made the call while delivering his goodwill message at the opening ceremony of the 2026 National Conference of Christian Lawyers’ Fellowship of Nigeria (CLASFON) held at the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar, Thursday.
Addressing judges, senior advocates, legal practitioners, academics, law students and delegates from across the country, the governor described the conference theme, “Thine is the power,” as a timely reminder that all authority belongs to God and must be exercised with humility, wisdom and accountability.
He reminded participants that every position of authority is a sacred trust, maintaining that, “whatever authority you exercise, whether on the Bench, at the Bar, in government or the boardroom, is not your own.
“It is held in trust from God, so wield it with humility, use it with wisdom and when you are tempted to pride, remember the power is not yours and the glory is not yours,” Otu said.
The governor encouraged them to use the period in the state to explore its rich tourism attractions, vibrant cultural heritage and renowned hospitality.
He expressed confidence that the conference would promote spiritual renewal, professional excellence and a renewed commitment to justice, righteousness and national transformation.
The governor reasoned that the theme resonates strongly with his administration’s People-First philosophy of governance, which prioritises the welfare of citizens and upholds the rule of law as the foundation for sustainable development.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary, expanding access to justice and ensuring fairness, transparency and accountability across public institutions, Otu commended CLASFON for its steadfast commitment to promoting ethical values, integrity and spiritual excellence within the legal profession since its establishment in 1979.
He urged members of the Fellowship to remain courageous in defending truth and justice by speaking truth to power, protecting the vulnerable and upholding the highest standards of integrity, even in the face of pressure and compromise.
Earlier, the National President of CLASFON, Femi David Ikotun, Esq, welcomed delegates to the 2026 National Conference and the Fellowship’s 45th anniversary celebration, describing the gathering as a solemn assembly of Christian legal professionals united under the theme, “Thine is the Power.”
Ikotun remarked that the conference reaffirms God’s sovereignty over all authority, calling on participants to remain committed to advancing justice, integrity, discipleship and national transformation through the legal profession.
He thanked God for CLASFON’s growth over the past 45 years, applauded the dedication of the Fellowship’s leaders, branches, volunteers and members, even as he urged delegates to embrace the conference as an opportunity for spiritual renewal, professional excellence and a renewed commitment to building a new legal profession anchored on Christ, while trusting God to empower them for greater service to the nation and His Kingdom.
Former Attorney General and Nigeria’s Minister of Justice, Kanu Agabi, SAN, enjoined participants to remain faithful witnesses of God’s grace by reflecting Christ in their professional and personal lives.
Quoting Isaiah 1:17, Agabi reminded delegates of their divine responsibility to “do right; seek justice and defend the oppressed,” reasoning that, the legal profession is a calling to serve truth and uphold righteousness.
He further charged participants to protect the law by defending justice, preserving the integrity of the legal system and standing firm against every form of injustice and compromise.
The former Attorney General further encouraged Christian lawyers to remain courageous, ethical and committed to using their profession as an instrument for nation-building and the advancement of God’s Kingdom.
High point of the event was the formal launch of the Fellowship’s magazine, which saw the Cross River government pledging ₦10 million in support of the publication.
