The much-awaited Clementina Legal Aid Philanthropy (CLAP) Foundation, established to fight injustice and expand access to justice for Africans, has officially begun operations.

The inauguration ceremony took place on Saturday at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, drawing dignitaries from various sectors to witness the foundation’s formal launch.

CLAP Foundation was created to honour the legacy of the late Mrs. Clementina Daley (née Modupe), a compassionate leader, entrepreneur, and Iyaloja of London’s East Street Market. Known for her fairness, resilience, and advocacy for the vulnerable, Mrs. Daley’s values form the bedrock of the organisation’s mission.

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.