The Lagos Multi-Door Courthouse (LMDC) commemorated International Women’s Day 2026 with a special community dialogue focused on improving women’s access to justice and promoting peaceful dispute resolution.
Eko Hot News reports that the event, brought together judicial officers, legal practitioners, community leaders, and grassroots market women for discussions aimed at strengthening awareness about justice pathways in Lagos State.
The programme aligned with the global campaign theme “Give To Gain” and the United Nations theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.”
To encourage full participation, the event was largely conducted in the Yoruba language.
This approach helped ensure clear understanding among market women and community representatives present at the gathering.
Participants engaged in conversations on peaceful ways to resolve disputes within markets and neighbourhoods.
The initiative also highlighted the importance of inclusive justice systems that are accessible to women at the grassroots level.
In her remarks, the Chairman of the LMDC Governing Council, Jumoke O. Pedro, emphasised the need for continuous community engagement in justice processes.
She explained that the legal system plays a role in everyday commercial activities and social relationships.
Justice Pedro also introduced the slogan “Ipinnu Laisi Ejo,” which translates to “Resolution Without Conflict.”
She encouraged women to adopt peaceful and constructive approaches when resolving disagreements.
According to her, seeking amicable solutions helps strengthen cooperation within communities and commercial environments.
The Director and Chief Executive Officer of LMDC, Achere Cole, also spoke on the importance of accessible justice systems.
She noted that justice goes beyond formal court proceedings.
Cole explained that mediation and other Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes provide opportunities for parties to resolve disagreements in a cooperative manner.
She described mediation as a process where individuals can achieve “justice on their own terms.”
According to her, this method allows people to shape outcomes that preserve relationships, businesses, and community harmony.
She encouraged participants to promote peace within their markets and neighbourhoods.
Cole added that communities that encourage dialogue and understanding are more likely to enjoy stable and productive environments.
The Assistant Director and Head of Operations at LMDC, Olubusola Ojo, also shared practical information about accessing mediation services.
She explained how disputes can be referred to LMDC for resolution through mediation and other ADR mechanisms.
Ojo also introduced the “Mobile ADR Clinic,” an initiative designed to bring dispute resolution services closer to communities.
According to her, the programme will help improve justice access across various local governments in Lagos.
The outreach aims to ensure that women and other grassroots stakeholders can easily benefit from mediation services.
Key stakeholders present at the event also highlighted the importance of collaboration in strengthening justice access.
Among them was Aramide Keshinro, President of the Customary Court, Lagos Island East.
Also present was Akoke Raji, Head of Legal at Lagos Island East Local Council Development Area.
They both emphasised that institutional partnerships are vital in promoting women’s rights and justice awareness within communities.
A major highlight of the programme was a role-play performance presented by LMDC staff.
The presentation was set in a typical Lagos market environment.
Through the performance, participants learned how patience, cooperation, and understanding can prevent disputes and strengthen community relationships.
The role-play illustrated practical steps traders can take to maintain peaceful interactions within busy market spaces.
Participants responded positively to the interactive session.
Many market leaders noted that the programme helped deepen their understanding of mediation and peaceful dispute resolution.
In her vote of thanks, the Deputy Director and Head of Corporate Services at LMDC, Justina Chukuma, appreciated participants for their active involvement.
She encouraged market leaders present to share the knowledge gained with other traders.
According to her, spreading awareness will help reinforce the message that every woman and girl has access to justice.
Observers noted that the outreach initiative reflects the growing role of community engagement in strengthening justice systems.
The event also reaffirmed LMDC’s commitment to making dispute resolution services accessible to residents across Lagos.
