To ensure that justice is accessible to everyone, regardless of their status, pro bono services provided by lawyers and non-governmental organizations play a crucial role. "Pro bono," derived from the Latin phrase "pro bono publico," meaning "for the public good," refers to the provision of free legal services to those who cannot afford them.
In Nigeria, the concept of pro bono services is well-established within the legal community. Many law firms, individual lawyers, and organizations offer pro bono assistance to the public. This practice, embraced globally and in developed countries, is especially vital in Nigeria, where the disparity between the wealthy and the poor continues to grow. True legal equality should not be hindered by financial constraints or other barriers.
Despite the promotion of pro bono services in Nigeria, there is always a greater need for accessible legal representation. Thousands, if not millions, still require free legal aid, and challenges such as financial constraints and limited manpower often restrict the extent of pro bono work. The judiciary is often seen as the last hope for the common man, and without effective pro bono services, this hope can be diminished.
Lawyers and organizations providing pro bono services are encouraged to persevere despite these challenges. The impact of their work is significant, as seen in cases where individuals like Mr. Sulaimon are freed from wrongful imprisonment or Tola is released from unlawful detention. The importance of pro bono services in bridging the justice gap cannot be overstated.
Fehintola Ogunbowale.
