A DECADE AS A PROSECUTOR: REFLECTIONS ON CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS

Reflecting on my journey as a prosecutor spanning a decade, it all began right after law school when I had the honor of serving as a State counsel while fulfilling my national service as a youth corps member. Working within the Department of Public Prosecutions in the Oyo State Ministry of Justice, I had the privilege of learning from a supportive senior who guided me through the intricacies of the law. Little did I anticipate that I would soon find employment in the same department, albeit in a different state.

On this memorable day, the 16th of April 2014, marks the auspicious occasion when I commenced my journey as a State Counsel and a prosecutor. Despite encountering numerous hurdles throughout the employment process, the state government initially aimed to hire ten lawyers, a quota that had already been fulfilled. However, by the grace of God, the quota was extended to sixteen lawyers, granting me the opportunity to embark on this noble profession in the public sector.? I am profoundly grateful to my Creator for His boundless mercy and grace, which have guided me to my current position.? I was lucky to meet pleasant seniors and bosses such as Directors, Solicitor General &Permanent Secretary who is now my learned Attorney General, a very pleasant and great mentor. When my internal posting came out without influencing it, I found myself in the same department where I had worked as a youth cop during service. I have worked with indefatigable and legal-minded directors who spoon-fed me with the law practice. Particularly the director I met there then who is now a sitting Judge. He would give me Federal High Court and Court of Appeal Cases not minding that I was a new wig that just joined the department. He would sit me down, and tutor me like a child even though he attached me with a senior then, he still gave me personal files to treat. You can never meet surprises in court whenever he hands over court files to you. Serving as a prosecutor who represented the state in criminal matters for the past 10 years makes me a fulfilled individual. Throughout my career, I have endeavored to positively impact the lives of others, and I remain committed to this cause. My mission is to uphold principles of fairness, equality, and justice, particularly for marginalized individuals while striving to bring integrity to the justice system. As a prosecutor, I am entrusted with sensitive responsibilities that demand unwavering discipline and resilience. Challenges often arise, such as attempts by the suspect's family to influence the proceedings by coercing me to falsify evidence or manipulate the court. These pressures test my moral fiber, yet I stand firm in my commitment to uphold the truth and pursue justice. In the courtroom, I confront myriad challenges, including instances where victims, especially in cases of sexual assault, may retract their testimony due to external pressures. On several occasions, opposing counsel would frustrate my cases, impede the progress by taking frivolous adjournments and actively pursuing the striking out of my cases particularly in murder cases. Despite the emotional toll, I persevere in my efforts to seek justice for the victims, even in the face of adversity. I take pride in my steadfast dedication to combatting societal injustices, and I vow to continue my tireless pursuit until such menaces are eradicated from our communities.?

Congratulations to my humble self and my contemporaries.

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