The Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has said that democratic governance cannot thrive without administrative legality, stressing that the rule of law remains the foundation of effective public administration.
Oyebanji made the assertion on Monday in Ado-Ekiti during the public presentation of a book titled “Administrative Law and Democratic Governance in Nigeria”, written in honour of the Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN).
The Governor, who was represented by the Head of Service, Dr. Kemi Olomojobi, said the event was not only to launch a book but also to celebrate a servant-leader who had contributed significantly to administrative law and democratic governance in Ekiti State and Nigeria at large.
He described the book as an indispensable resource for top government functionaries, academics, and researchers, noting that it clearly demonstrates how public power must be exercised lawfully, reasonably, fairly, and transparently.
Oyebanji said the publication came at a critical time when citizens were demanding greater efficiency, responsiveness, and accountability in public service, while condemning impunity.
He added that the tenure of Mr. Apata as Attorney General had been marked by strict adherence to the rule of law, courage in defending public interest, and commitment to institutional reforms in the justice sector.
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Also speaking, the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, who is one of the contributors to the book, described it as a reflection of the honouree’s distinguished career at the Bar and his service as Solicitor-General of the Federation.
Aribasoye said the Attorney General had consistently demonstrated commitment to constitutional governance, institutional integrity, and the rule of law, adding that Ekiti State was fortunate to have him serve in its justice system.
In his remarks, the Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Justice Lekan Ogunmoye, described Mr. Apata as a thoroughbred legal practitioner whose career has been synonymous with law reform, service, and integrity over the past decade.
He noted that the book captures the honouree’s contributions to legal development and provides critical insights into governance, justice, and public administration in Nigeria.
The Acting Permanent Secretary and Solicitor-General, Ekiti State Ministry of Justice, Mr. Gbenga Daramola, said the publication was a fitting tribute to Mr. Apata’s service to the rule of law, adding that his leadership had strengthened efficiency, equity, and public trust in the justice system.
He said the book would serve as a reference material for scholars, jurists, students, and policymakers, while inspiring future generations in democratic governance.
Responding, the Attorney General and honouree, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN), expressed appreciation to all contributors to the book, particularly the Nigerian Bar Association (Ekiti State Branch), for initiating the project.
He said he was humbled by the honour accorded him during his lifetime, adding that the work, which comprises 22 chapters written by 34 authors, represents a significant contribution to legal scholarship.
Apata also recalled that his Federal Ministry of Justice e-library was named after him in 2021 upon his exit as Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary.
He thanked Governor Oyebanji for the opportunity to serve Ekiti State, noting that his administration had further strengthened the justice system in the state.
Dignitaries at the event included judges of the State High Court, members of the State Executive Council, management and staff of the Ministry of Justice, traditional rulers, and senior members of the bench.