Lagos was abuzz with anticipation on Saturday as the long-awaited Clementina Legal Aid Philanthropy (CLAP) Foundation, formally commenced operations
CLAP. an initiative dedicated to combating injustice and widening access to justice across Africa. The inauguration that held at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, drew an impressive mix of dignitaries, community leaders, legal practitioners, and philanthropists who gathered to witness the birth of what many described as a “transformative force” in Africa’s justice landscape.
The Initiative that was founded in honor of the late Mrs. Clementina Daley (née Modupe), the CLAP Foundation reflects the compassion and tenacity that defined her life. Mrs. Daley, a respected entrepreneur and the Iyaloja of London’s historic East Street Market, her fairness, resilience, and unwavering support for the vulnerable form the core of the foundation’s mission to promote justice, equity, and empowerment across the continent.
The foundation is committed to promoting impartiality and compassion while addressing the systemic injustices that disproportionately affect indigent Africans who lack the resources to seek justice. Its mandate includes providing free legal services, advocacy, and legal education to vulnerable communities, as well as promoting greater participation in pro bono work across the continent.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Olusola Ogunfuwa in his welcome address described the foundation as an institution rooted in the conviction that every individual regardless of social or economic status deserves fair representation and protection under the law.
He noted that vulnerable members of society, in Nigeria and beyond, are often silenced simply because they lack the means to defend themselves.
According to him, “The foundation seeks to bridge that gap, ensuring that access to justice is not determined by wealth or status but by the universal principle of equity and fairness. Together, we embark on a journey to restore hope, uphold dignity, and strengthen the rule of law for those who need it most.”
He added that the establishment of CLAP underscores the urgent need for legal aid interventions for poor and vulnerable individuals in Nigeria and across Africa.
Representing the Controller General of the Correctional Service, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, an official in his keynote address stated that the CLAP initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening justice, fairness, and humane treatment within Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
Providing legal support for indigent citizens, he said, is not only an act of compassion but a critical contribution to building an inclusive society.
“I commend the board of trustees and all who supported this vision for their courage. We welcome every responsible effort that fosters collaboration across the justice sector. Together, we can strengthen the structures that protect dignity and give every individual a fair opportunity to rebuild their lives,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Barrister Ayodele Modupe, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the successful inauguration. He affirmed that the CLAP Foundation is committed to helping restructure and reform systems of injustice in Nigeria and across Africa continent.
– Oluseun ODUNEYE, Abeokuta.
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