The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Air Peace and international conspiracy

    Air Peace and international conspiracy

    By Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye

    Since the beginning of Air Peace’s Lagos-London route operation, there have been several conspiracies from international airlines that can be pegged as an act of conspiracy against Nigeria, even though some tagged it ‘mere’ business competitiveness. The recent events surrounding Air Peace and its operations, particularly the deliberate delays and obstacles faced by the airline at Gatwick Airport, London, raise concerns about the integrity of Nigeria’s aviation industry and the broader implications for national security.

    As patriotic Nigerians, It is important to acknowledge the critical role that Air Peace plays in Nigeria’s aviation sector and its recent broader contribution to the country’s economic development. As one of the leading airlines in Nigeria, Air Peace has helped Nigerians with the new operational route with fair ticket prices. Any effort, either locally or internationally trying to undermine or sabotage the operations of Air Peace must be viewed as a direct attack on Nigeria’s economic interests.

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    For the past six years, foreign airlines have been exploiting Nigerian passengers with unholy  ticket prices, only for us to witness a sudden crash in fares following the introduction of Air Peace’s Lagos-London route. Before Air Peace entered the market on March 30, 2024, airfares to London remained prohibitively high, prompting regulatory bodies like the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) to call for foreign airlines to open up their ticket inventories to Nigerian passengers.

    The sudden reduction in prices, coinciding with the launch of Air Peace’s Lagos-London route, suggests a calculated attempt to disrupt the airline’s operations and undermine its competitive advantage. As at last year, international tickets were sold at exorbitant prices, attributing the hike to the depreciation of Naira. But before the devaluation of Naira, these airlines maintained the same prices for their tickets, until Air Peace took the big leap.

    Suddenly, there is a huge price slash, following the drastic reduction in ticket prices just a few weeks after Air Peace’s entry into the market, Nigerians’ questions have been left unanswered. Just recently, a one-way economy class ticket from Lagos to London on airlines like British Airways and Lufthansa commanded prices as high as N3 million, while business class tickets soared to N11 million. However, since Air Peace began its Lagos-London route operation, and its N1.2 million, these prices have plummeted to N1.7 million for economy and N6.8 million for business class on British Airways, and similarly reduced rates on other airlines.

    The sudden crash in ticket prices, with economy fares dropping to as low as N585,620 on EgyptAir, is enough to raise suspicions among industry insiders. Isn’t this a strategic avenue for foreign airlines to undercut Air Peace, forcing the Nigerian carrier to sell tickets at a loss and eventually exit the route. What would then happen if Air Peace is forced out of its new patriotic operation to ensure Nigerians pay the appropriate value for what they got? Would the foreign airline prices remain the same? I doubt it. It will further equip  foreign airlines with the ability to reclaim their dominance and continue exploiting Nigerian passengers, as they have done for the past six years. But this time, calling the home-land carrier a failure for being ejected out of business by  their conspiracies.

    Personally, I will say that the implications of this price manipulation extend beyond ‘mere’ competition in the aviation industry as stated. These actions could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s economy and national pride. Air Peace represents more than just a business entity; it symbolizes Nigeria’s aspirations for self-sufficiency and sovereignty in the aviation sector. Any attempt to undermine Air Peace’s operations should be viewed as a direct affront to Nigeria’s economic interests and national dignity.

    Although aviation experts said they had anticipated the price slash from foreign airlines following the commencement of Air Peace Lagos-London route, as they would try to counter-effect and continue to dominate flights on the route. As Nigeria is a cash-cow for these airlines, It is no news why they had the support of their government.

    When I listened to Bankole Bernand, former president of National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) speak on Channels TV sometime ago that there is an unspoken alliance between foreign airlines to eject Air Peace from Nigeria-London operations, I vehemently agreed with his statement. What was the logic, reasoning, or which new guidelines have been put in place that could have factored the huge slash of ticket price if not the fear of Air Peace dominating the market and stripping them of the outrageous profit margin they are so used to? These actions not only threaten the viability of Air Peace as a business entity, but also jeopardize Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable and competitive player in the global aviation industry. A huge debt Nigerians would pay if Air Peace is forced out of the market.

    Also, the deliberate delays and obstacles faced by Air Peace at Gatwick Airport cannot be far from the broader geopolitical tensions and rivalries. Why was there a change in the allocated space that led to delay? Conspiracy.  It can be seen as a bid to paint the airline unprofessionally to passengers, thereby discrediting the airline’s service. Air Peace came as the savior Nigerians needed during the unholy cheating Nigerians had to withstand for over six years, and this is how we pay them back?

    As much as government cannot decide ticket prices for airlines, it is important for government to take a firm stance against any conspiracy or attempt to undermine the operations of Air Peace. Any conspiracy against Air Peace should be treated as a conspiracy against the Federal Republic of Nigeria and met with the full force of the law. This includes conducting thorough investigations into the motives behind such actions, holding accountable those responsible, and implementing measures to safeguard the interests of Air Peace and Nigeria as a whole.

    Nigerians should come to an awareness that deliberate delays and obstacles faced by Air Peace represent a grave threat to Nigeria’s economic interests and national sovereignty. Any conspiracy against Air Peace should be countered by the government. Nigerians standing with Air Peace regardless of any sabotage would send a strong signal to international bodies of our solidarity and support for the boost of our homeland economy. Nigerians must rally behind Air Peace and show their support for the homegrown carrier, as it strives to provide affordable and accessible air travel for all citizens.

    •Maxwell Adeyemi Adeleye, a Communication-for-Development Consultant, sent this piece from London. He can be reached via maxwelladeleye@gmail.com

  • ‘Detention before investigation is unconstitutional’

    ‘Detention before investigation is unconstitutional’

    FACTS

    The case of the Respondent who was a Senior Officer in the service of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (the 1st Appellant) is that he was arrested and wrongfully detained in the cell of the 1st Appellant. He brought an application before the trial Court to enforce his fundamental rights.

    After hearing all the parties, the trial Court in a considered judgment found in favour of the Respondent. Aggrieved by the decision of the trial Court, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal.

    ISSUES FOR DETERMINATION

    The appeal was determined the issue of whether the learned trial judge was right when he held that the Appellants violated the fundamental rights of the Respondent and therefore he entitled to damages.

    APPELLANT’S SUBMISSION

    Appellants’ counsel submitted that there was evidence to justify the restraint on the Respondent’s movement. He submitted too that the 21 per cent post-judgment interest awarded against the Appellants was raised by the trial Court suo motu and this occasioned a miscarriage of justice; OJELEYE VS. REGISTERED TRUSTEES OF ONA IWA MIMO CHERUBIM AND SERAPHIM CHURCH OF NIGERIA (2008) 15 NWLR (PT. 1111) 520.

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    Appellants’ counsel also submitted that the award of damages by the trial Court was perverse and unrealistic; ODOGU VS. ATTORNEY-GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION (1996) 6 NWLR (PT. 456)508.

    Appellants’ counsel finally submitted that the trial Court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the Respondent’s action.

    The basis of the complaint of the Appellants on the jurisdiction of the trial Court to entertain the action before it was the pendency of a criminal charge against the Respondent at the time of hearing of the application for the enforcement of fundamental rights.

    RESPONDENT’S SUBMISSION

    Respondent’s counsel submitted that the affidavit evidence detailing the Respondent’s arrest was neither challenged, discredited nor contradicted and as such the trial Court could rely upon it; CHABASAYA VS. ANWASI (2010) 10 NWLR (PT. 1201)163.

    RESOLUTION OF ISSUES

    The Court held that jurisdiction is the blood that gives life to an action in a Court of law and any action heard and decided without jurisdiction is a nullity. See ODUAH VS. OKADIGBO (2019) 3 NWLR (PT. 1660) 433. The Court further held that the pendency of a criminal charge against a person for which he has not been found guilty would not deny him access to a Court to enforce his fundamental rights where he feels same has been infringed. See IHIM VS. MADUAGWU (2021) 5 NWLR (PT. 1770) 584 at 616, Paragraphs C-D.

    The Court also held that by virtue of Section 46 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 jurisdiction to hear fundamental rights actions is vested in the High Court.

    And by virtue of FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA VS. IFEGWU (2003) 15 NWLR (PT. 842)113 at 178 PARAGRAPHS A-B, it is the principal relief endorsed on the application filed that determines the Court’s jurisdiction. Since the Respondent from the relief sought alleged that his fundamental right has been breached by the Appellants, the trial Court was right when it assumed jurisdiction.

    The Court held that a person who admits the detention of another by him has a duty to prove that the detention was lawful. See DIRECTOR STATE SECURITY SERVICES VS. AGBAKOBA (1999) 3 NWLR (PT. 595)314.

    The Court held that the fundamental right of a Nigerian citizen is guaranteed by the Constitution. See Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

    However, the Court held that the rights guaranteed under Chapter IV are not absolute but can be curtailed in the course of judicial inquiry or where the Defendant is arrested and detained upon reasonable suspicion of having committed a felony.

    The Court held that a party who leads evidence of the existence of a document in proof of his case is obliged to present it before the Court. The law does not allow oral evidence in proof of a document. See ABUBAKAR VS. WAZIRI (2008) 14 NWLR (PT. 1108) 507. The Appellants who relied on a document justifying the arrest of the Respondent did not produce same in Court and as such the Court has no business pronouncing on it.

    The Court held that though Section 41 of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act, Laws of the Federation, 2004 confers powers on the Appellants to arrest and detain any person whom it believes has committed an offence under the Act, such powers must, however, be exercised within the ambits of the law.

    The Court further held that arrest and detention before investigation where there is no prima facie evidence that the suspect has committed the offence, is unconstitutional. See FAWEHINMI VS. INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE (2002) 7 NWLR (PT. 767) 606.

    The Court further held that though Section 35(4) and (5) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 allows the detention of a person for the purpose of bringing him before a Court upon reasonable suspicion of his having committed a criminal offence, this shall be done within a reasonable time. Reasonable time in the case of where the Court is within forty Kilometers radius is twenty-four hours. See AKILA VS. DIRECTOR GENERAL, STATE SECURITY SERVICES (2014) 2 NWLR (PT. 1392) 443.

    In considering the contention of the Appellants that the trial Court did not take into cognisance the number of days for which the Appellants can detain the Respondent before coming to the conclusion that the detention was unlawful, the Court still held that it is not every error or mistake by a Court that would warrant the reversal of the decision reached in the proceedings. Such decision would be reversed only where there is a miscarriage of justice. See ETIM VS. AKPAN (2019) 1 NWLR (PT. 1654) 451.

    The Court, in considering the contention of the Appellants that the award of damages was excessive, held that by virtue of Section 35(6) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) once it is established that a person has been unlawfully arrested or detained, he is entitled to compensation and public apology. The award of damages in such circumstance is at the discretion of the Judge.

    However, whatever compensation is awarded should reflect not only the pecuniary loss of the victim but also the abhorrence of society and the law for such gross violation of human rights. See MUHAMMAD VS. INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE (2019) 4 NWLR (PT. 1663) 492.

    As regards the award of post-judgment interest, the Court held that although an award of post-judgment interest by a trial Court is discretionary, the Rules of Court provide for the limit of such interest. The Court held that by the Rules of the trial Court the maximum he could award is 10 per cent.

    Thus, the Court held that the award of 21 per cent post judgment interest was ultra vires. See EKWUNIFE VS. WAYNE WEST AFRICA LTD (1989) 5 NWLR (PT. 122) 422. However, the Court ordered the Appellant to pay to the Respondent 10 per cent interest per annum on the damages of N7million awarded in his favour with effect from April 5, 2017 until same is fully liquidated.

    HELD

    The Court allowed in part, affirming the judgment of the trial Court and all orders made by it except the award of 21% post-judgment interest.

    APPEARANCES:

    I.J. IGWUBOR, Esq., Asst Chief Legal Officer, NDLEA                      For Appellant(s)

    Abubakar Shamsudeen,                                                                – For 1st Respondent(s)

    Compiled by LawPavilion

  • Trusts as powerful wealth transfer, asset distribution tool

    Trusts as powerful wealth transfer, asset distribution tool

    By Bukola Seun-Oloruntuga

    While contemplating the best way to secure her wealth and ensure a smooth transition for her children and grandchildren, Mrs. Thompson, the matriarch of the Thompson family, found herself at a crossroads.

    While searching for answers, she discovered a powerful estate planning tool: trusts.

    Mrs. Thompson soon realised that estate planning was more than writing a will.

    Instead, it is a meticulous process and a well-thought-out strategy to secure any financial future.

    At the heart of this strategy are trusts—legal entities that could hold and manage assets for the benefit of individuals or entities.

    Imagine you have a cherished collection of books.

    These books represent your wealth, home, or anything else you hold dear.

    You can create a “trust” if you convert these books into a library where they will be cared for and shared with your loved ones later.

    In the language of the law, you become the “settlor” or the one who sets up the trust.

    In our library analogy, the books are the “assets” held in the trust.

    The people you want to share these books with, perhaps your children or grandchildren, are the “beneficiaries.”

    Finally, to ensure everything is in order and runs smoothly, you will appoint a reliable librarian who the law calls the “trustee.”

    This trustee is your right-hand person who will ensure the books are shared as outlined in your trust deed when the time comes.

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    With this illustration, “trust” involves four key players: you (the settlor), your assets (the books), your beneficiaries (those who get to enjoy the books), and your trustee (the librarian who makes sure everything goes according to your plan).

    As Mrs. Thompson dug into trust, she found some wrong ideas about it.

    One big one is that trusts are only for super-rich people.

    To help demystify this idea, creating a “trust” can be like caring for a garden.

    Whether it is a big or small garden, you want to plan it right.

    The same applies to trust—it is not just for the wealthy but anyone who wants to plan their estate well.

    Another mistaken idea is that creating a trust means giving up control of your assets.

    It is not necessarily the case.

    Creating a “trust” can be compared to steering a ship.

    You will agree that while you steer it as the captain, sometimes you will have to let others help.

    Hence, creating a trust does not mean you lose control; it means you are steering your wealth smartly.

    There is also the idea that trusts are too complex and meant only for experts.

    The truth is that using trust for wealth transfer and asset distribution can also be likened to baking.

    It might seem a bit tricky initially, but with some help, it gets easier.

    For instance, Mrs. Thompson discovered a range of options that suit different needs.

    Living trusts offer the advantage of avoiding probate—a time-consuming and often costly legal process—and irrevocable trusts, on the other hand, provide some asset protection.

    With a living trust, Mrs Thompson could maintain control of her assets during her lifetime and smoothly transfer them to her heirs upon her passing.

    She also discovered that trusts could help her secure the financial future of her minor children and any beneficiaries with special needs.

    Indeed, by creating a trust, Mrs. Thompson could provide for their welfare and ensure proper management of their assets until they became adults or could handle them.

    In conclusion, trusts are not just for the super-rich; they do not mean giving up control of assets and are certainly not just for experts.

    With professional guidance, anyone can use trust to plan their wealth smartly and create a legacy.

    ● Seun-Oloruntuga, a lawyer who specialises in estate planning, is also a career and executive coach. She can be reached at bso@morecraftlaw.com

  • SAN advocates funding policy for special needs kids

    SAN advocates funding policy for special needs kids

    A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Anthony Idigbe, has urged the government at all levels to commit more resources to caring for children with special needs.

    Idigbe, the Senior Partner at Punuka Attorneys and Solicitors, made the call during the second edition of the Punuka Foundation Walk for Super Special Children, an initiative of the law firm’s not-for-profit arm, Punuka Foundation.

    The Foundation, which runs a childcare centre in Lagos, was established to pursue the objective of helping the needy.

    It focuses on people with developmental needs such as autism, down syndrome, cerebral palsy, Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and related conditions.

    Idigbe said: “There’s a lot the government can do in terms of policy. I think more resources should be committed to taking care of children with special needs.

    “Our Childcare Centre could be a centre of excellence where scientific research can be conducted.

    “An organisation in Canada that we’re associated with tries to identify the level of intelligence of these kids.

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    “They found out that some kids may be challenged, but can communicate with the eyes. So a computer was designed to enable them to write through eye signals.

    “There are lots of things we can do in Nigeria as well, so we hope to partner with the government on some of these research activities.

    “We believe in early intervention and identifying children with needs in the general schools. It means improving the skills of the teachers.

    “Part of our work is empowering teachers on how they can identify children with special needs and how they can intervene very early.

    “A lot of kids not doing well in general schools could be because they have eye problems. A test can reveal that glasses could simply solve the problem.

    “So, there is a lot we can do with the government in terms of policy and training, in addition to the services we offer at our special centre.”

    One of the foundation’s objectives, noted the SAN, is to impact society generally across the entire country.

    “We’ll partner with different states for impact. We want to invest in the human infrastructure in Nigeria.

    “The walk is to create awareness and draw attention to the challenges faced by children with special needs, and the need for our society – the government and foundations such as ours – to continue to provide for their needs and do more.

    “It’s also an opportunity to draw attention to the work that we at Punuka Foundation are doing, such as the Childcare Centre and the Youth Centre that we established,” Idigbe added.

    Executive Secretary and Trustee of Punuka Foundation, Mrs Elizbeth Idigbe, said the childcare centre is equipped with modern facilities, sensory-motor tools and other learning aids, as well as the right mix of therapists (occupational, behavioural, language/speech), assessors and resident nurses to ensure the actualisation of the developmental goals of the super special children.

    “The foundation is focused on helping children who have developmental needs. Of course, we also offer support to the underprivileged in our society.

    “The centre offers full therapy – the children need to maximise their potential. They can only do that with the help of experts, and that is where the Punuka Foundation comes in. These children should not be left behind.

    “If we receive more support, we can take in more children and employ more experts, because feeding them and paying the therapists are not cheap at all,” Mrs Idigbe said.

    On how people can support, she added: “Aside from donations, organisations or individuals can take up responsibility for a child on a monthly, quarterly, half-yearly or yearly basis.”

    A partner at Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors, Mr Nnamdi Oragwu, urged well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organisations to support the work of the foundation.

    “It’s a laudable initiative which requires the support of well-meaning Nigerians.

    “We have various platforms for donations and support, so any contribution is welcome,” he said.

    At the fun-filled walk were many children with special needs, members of the law firm, staff members of the foundation and childcare centre, sponsors and many dignitaries from all walks of life.

    Dressed in white T-shirts emblazoned with “Walk for Special Children,” they walked from Lekki Phase 1 through Admiralty Way to Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors office at Oyibo Adjarho Street in Lekki Phase 1 amid music and dance.

  • Businessman re-arraigned for alleged N84m fraud

    Businessman re-arraigned for alleged N84m fraud

    A businessman, Edrian Osagie Ididia,  has been re-arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before a Lagos Special Offences Court Ikeja for alleged N84M million fraud.

    Ididia was re-arraigned before Justice Ismail Ijelu on two counts charge bordering on obtaining by false pretence and stealing N84 miilion.

    The defendant was earlier arraigned in 2022  before Justice Serifat Solebo now retired and  was granted bail.

     However, at the resumed hearing yesterday, the EFCC counsel, Mr Ebuka  Okongwu prayed the court to allow the amended two count charge dated November 25, 2021 be read to the defendant to take his plea.

    His prayer for re-arraignment was not opposed by defendant’s counsel, Mr Dada Awosika (SAN).

    Ididia was therefore re-arraigned on a two-count charge of fraud and stealing of the N84 million.

     EFCC alleged that Ididia obtained money by false pretence contrary to Sections 1(1) and 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act No. 14 of 2006.

    He was alleged to have obtained N84 million ‘with intent to defraud’ one Mark David Umeh on the false representation that he had three Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) for sale in September 2019, knowing full well that his claim was false.

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    His offence of stealing is contrary to Sections 278 and 285 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, No 11, 2011.

    He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

    Part of the charge read that, Adrian Osagie Ididia between the September 13, 2019 and October 29, 2019 at Lagos within the court jurisdiction dishonestly stole and converted to his use, the sum of N84 million property of Mr Mark David Umeh.

    Following his not guilty plea, EFCC counsel prayed the court to remand the defendant in custody of a Correctional facility and also fix date for trial.

    The defence counsel, Awosika, told court that he has filed an application for bail, dated May 2.  He prayed the court to allow his client to continue on the bail earlier granted by the retired Justice Solebo.

    He submitted that the defendant did not at any time violate the the conditions of the bail granted and he has always been in court.

    He told the court to admit the defendant to bail, adding that he had been granted bail by a Federal High Court in a similar matter.

    He maintained that the defendant is ready to stand trial and he would not jump bail if granted by the court. 

    But the EFCC counsel filed a counter affidavit to opposed the bail application.

    Okongwu submitted that the defendant worked in a construction company in Canada and that he has a Canadian Passport.

    “He does not even live in the address he wrote in the statement.The address was traced on the Google and it was discovered that it was a short let apartment.”

    He added that defendant has no residential address for the commission to trace him.

    Awosika (SAN) responded that the he resides in Benin and that his international passport was deposited at the Federal High Court in another matter.

    The counsel therefore undertake to bring him at the next adjournment date, prayed the court to release the defendant to him that he will get his family to prepare for his bail bond.

    After listened to both counsel, Justice Ijelu fixed May 22 for ruling on bail application and therefore released India to Awosika (SAN).

  • Lawyers, AFRICMIL seek legal backing to protect whistleblowers

    Lawyers, AFRICMIL seek legal backing to protect whistleblowers

    Legal practitioners advocating for good governance and a corruption-free society in Nigeria and African Centre for Media and Information Literacy (AFRICMIL), have called for an effective whistleblower law to protect citizens who volunteer information on corrupt activities and other wrongdoings in the country.

    The stakeholders made the call during a one-day workshop for lawyers with bias for public interest litigation by AFRICMIL in collaboration with Progressive Impact Organisation for Community Development (PRIMORG) in Enugu.

    The workshop, which was in continuation of AFRICMIL’s advocacy to popularise whistleblowing as an anti-cirruption mechanism and ensure effective whistleblower protection, had as its theme: “The Role of Lawyers in Promoting Whistleblowing and Whistleblower Protection in Nigeria.”

    The participants lamented the absence of legislation to protect the whistleblower, about eight years after the whistleblowing policy was introduced by the Federal Government.

    They stated that the lack of legislation to protect individuals ready to offer information on abnormalities in the system was affecting the policy.

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    One of the lawyers, Uche Nwokocha of the National Human Rights Commission who spoke on the topic, “Whistleblowing as a tool for fighting corruption and the role of citizens”, stressed that whistle-blowing was relevant in every sphere of

    human endeavour and was capable of turning things around for the country if properly handled.

    She lamented that despite the breakthroughs various governments had made in checking corrupt practices through the policy, inability to protect informants was discouraging people from volunteering information.

    “We cannot overlook the importance of this policy in ensuring the workability of the system and helping in the enthronement of good governance,” she stated.

    She pointed out that the policy in other climes had proven to be a potent weapon effectively deployed to check crimes and corruption in the system and urged the Federal Government to find ways of making the policy serve the best interest of the country.

    President of the Civil Rights

    Advancement Advocacy Network

    (CRRAN), Olu Omotayo, emphasised the need for lawyers to use available legal provisions such as the Freedom of Information (FOI) Law to promote whistleblowing and protect whistleblowers, stressing that the policy had so far yielded positive results.

    He stated that lawyers should leverage the policy to support the government in the fight against corruption and other abnormalities in the system.

    The coordinator of AFRICMIL, Dr Chido Onumah, stated that the workshop was designed to enhance the lawyers’ knowledge and understanding of the Nigerian whistleblowing policy which the Nigerian government introduced in December 2016 as a deliberate effort to check corruption and wrongdoing in the country.

    According to him, the workshop was a step towards cultivating a team of lawyers who will offer their professional skills in the quest for the enactment of a long overdue whistleblower protection law in the country.

    He said the workshop would enrich the participants’ understanding of the whistleblowing ecosystem and its general principles and best practices, in addition to exposing them to the nature and scope of the draft whistleblower protection bill approved by the Federal Executive Council which has yet to be passed into law.

  • ‘Law school brought out the best in me’

    ‘Law school brought out the best in me’

    Igweh Emmanuel Udoka’s original  intention was to study Mass Communication because of his addiction to network news  on National Television Authority(NTA). But his father refused him,  preferring law. He shared his experience with Elizabeth  Eze

    Can you introduce yourself, family background

    My name is Igweh Emmanuel Udoka, from Lokpanta Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State. I come from a bourgeois family with two other siblings.

    Education background

    I attended Anglican Primary School Okigwe, Federal Government College Okigwe before gaining admission to study law in Abia State University Uturu.

    Why law?

    I had no interest initially. I never had law in mind. In fact, Mass Communication was my dream course because as a child I watched news network a lot. So I had an incredible passion for news casting and ordinarily, the course I felt would land me such gig was mass communication. Because you know back then, most people, not all, are opportune to work according to the course they studied. So, I was hopeful of landing news casting job.

    So, who influenced your change of mind to study law, your father?

    Not just the influence, he was the one who insisted that law should come first, then mass communication.  The truth is that  my JAMB result was high, same for my aptitude test. So, I was admitted to study law on merit and till today and forever I will be grateful to my father for making that choice for me. Obviously I would’ve regretted not studying law.

    How many of you are lawyers in the family?

    Just one, my uncle who is a professor of law and also my principal. Well normally, it made me a mini lawyer before becoming a lawyer. I used to work in his office while I was in the university. So, getting to law school, it was a bit easier. Law School is totally different from law practice itself.

    If not law, which course would you have studied?

    Mass communication no doubt.

    What were your remarkable achievements in school?

    None exactly. I feel I had no drive or force in both primary and secondary school unlike I had in Law School.

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    What was Law School like? Did you get any award/honour?

    Law School is that one place you wouldn’t wish for your worst enemy. It is a place where you have no option than to read so one can pass and go home. A place that brings out the best in you .Thats one place you can read for 20 hours out of 24 hours in a day. Still one of the best things that have happened to the  the law profession is  to have such an organised and well planned institution.

    Did you get any award?

    I was not opportuned to have any award or honour but honestly I tried. I really wanted one especially in criminal or civil litigation. I studied intensively for it but then it is what it is.

    How many years have you been in practice?

    Five years exactly.

    How did your father and other family members celebrate your Call to Bar?

    We drove straight from Supreme Court after my enrollment to the house of  current Minister for Labour. Then, she was representing my constituency at the National Assembly. We were well entertained and we had fun. After this, we came back to the East, we had thanksgiving service at St Marys Catholic Church and we entertained visitors.

    What was your first day experience in court before a judge like?

    My first day was at the Court of Appeal, Owerri Division.  I was to adopt our respondent brief of argument. So, what I did when I started going to court was to always write down in my diary stages of proceedings. e.g how to move a motion, how to adopt written address, how to tender document and how to lead a witness. I also use Youtube sometimes. So I was prepared and that was it. But definitely one must be nervous and yes, I was.

    Most embarrassing moment in court?

     I was at Customary Court of Appeal, Owerri and we had a motion but in the substantive suit we were the respondent. But in the motion, we were the Applicant/Respondent. So now the appearance will be different because now we are the applicant while the adverse party are the Respondent/Appellant. So I only appeared for  the Respondent and not the Applicant/Respondent. The truth is correction is normal in courtrooms and most judges and senior lawyers are always willing to teach and explain some complicated issues to a younger counsel. It wasn’t   an embarrassment because correction will be an everyday thing in our profession especially inside the court room.

    Should all cases terminate at Supreme Court?

    There should be an end to litigation. The Supreme Court should be the end point. However, I feel or its clear that Nigeria needs more courtroom and more judges. We should at least adopt the American system by creating Supreme Court in every state or Regional Supreme Court to reduce the workload of the Supreme Court in Abuja. You can appear before the Supreme Court in 2023 and the matter will be adjourned to 2024 or even 2025 almost one year later. So yes, cases should terminate there and also we need more courtrooms to enable expeditious hearing of cases.

    How can we ensure that Supreme Court has full compliment of 21 justices at all time?

    If the question is opinion based, then I will say none. The rules on selection of judges are already written and existing even before I came into the noble profession. Such rules, I believe are being followed in selection of judges to the apex court.

    Looking at your career, will you prefer being a Law professor, or SAN or both?

    Well with the way the profession was designed abinitio, the above mentioned are two different achievements with different road to each. Now a Professor of Law is an academic achievement which one can attain by passing through rigorous academic stages while SAN-ship is a law thing which one can attain by how many cases one has done in different courts and also a well coordinated and organized law library.

    So, one can achieve both so I can’t be asked if I prefer one because they are two different feats which I know someday, I can achieve. We just pray and hope for long life and every other thing will be achieved.

    rovide to the media or the answers given to questions, the final say still resides with the judges. So yes I applaud the media for doing an amazing job generally.

    What’s your suggestion about media coverage of court proceedings?  Some cases might require media coverage obviously.But some cases should not be covered by the media. In fact, we have lots of cases where the judges hear such matters inside chambers and not inside the court room mostly because of the sensitive nature of the cases. Lets say for example divorce petitions., These are very highly sensitive matters thasouldn’t be out there for everyone to see.

  • Lagos holds Justice summit May 27, 28

    Lagos holds Justice summit May 27, 28

    The Lagos State Ministry of Justice has announced plans to hold a Justice Reform Summit on May 27 and 28.

    The theme is:  “Enhancing The Administration of Justice For Economic Growth, Investment Protection And Security in Lagos State”.

    It will hold at the Marriott Hotel, G.R.A. Ikeja Lagos.

    According to a statement by the Solicitor General/Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Titilayo ShittaBey–Jeje, the State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu will be the Chief Host at the summit. 

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    While the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola GCON will be the Chairman, the Attorney- General of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), will be the  Special Guest of Honour at the event.

    As a prelude to the summit, there will be a press conference by the Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, where highlights of the summit will be presented.

    In order to gather insights from a wide spectrum of Nigerians, the Ministry has created an avenue for stakeholders and members of the public to express their views, observations and recommendations for the reform.

    Therefore, the stakeholders and members of the public can send their contributions to the following social media platforms:

    (a) lagosjusticesummit2024@gmail.com

    (b) WhatsApp No: 07032276146

    (c) Facebook – @Lagosmoj

    (d) Twitter- @Lagosmoj

    (e) Instagram-@Lagosmoj

  • Man kills cousin, friend, sells parts to ritualists in Ondo

    Man kills cousin, friend, sells parts to ritualists in Ondo

    Babalola Dolapo Daniel, who confessed to killing his childhood friend, Opeyemi Oyelakin, and stealing his motorcycle, has revealed how he sold his late friend’s body parts to ritualists in Ibadan, Oyo state.

    Dolapo said he also killed his cousin and three other persons.

    He said he was not aware if all his victims died after hitting them with a stick and a stone before making away with their motorcycles.

    Police investigations showed that Dolapo killed a motorcyclist in Kabba, Kogi state and in Ife along Ilesha road in Osun state in April 2023.

    The police said: “In June 2023, he killed another motorcyclist at Ondo town and dumped the corpse at a farm at Oboto bush along Bolorunduro road, Ondo town while in October 2023 the suspect and one Sikiru Mutiu aka S.K killed his childhood friend, dismembered his body and handed them to herbalists identified as Mujeeb Lawal and Shina Ojo for rituals.

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    “The duo of Abiola Olatunji Toheeb and Ayegbajeje Micheal who are receivers of stolen items and one Oyediran Waheed Olaitan who helps in the production of fake documents to aid the selling of the stolen motorcycles have been arrested. Seven motorcycles have been retrieved from the receivers while one suspect is still at large. I have killed five persons including my cousin and my friend, and snatched their motorcycles.

    In an interview, Dolapo said: “I killed Opeyemi who is my friend, and sold the motorcycle to one man at Ibadan called Toheed. I do not sell human parts but I took part of one of my victims’ bodies to an herbalist in Ondo who promised to give me an Ifa Oracle.

    “At the point where we snatched motorcycles, anyone who struggled with me in the process got hit on the head with a fat stone and a stick.”

    The herbalists said they used the body parts to prepare spiritual soap.

    Also, one Adetokunbo Adesina, who claimed to have been hired to kill over 500 persons, was arrested after his last victim paid him N110,000.

    Police said Adetokunbo claimed three staff of the woman paid him to kill her.

    “Out of fear, the victim sent the sum of ₦110,000 to the account forwarded to her. Through Technical assistance, he was arrested.

    “The suspect claimed he was sick and needed money to carry out a surgical operation and decided to use the threat as a means to extort the victim because she refused to employ him in her pure water factory.”

    Ondo Police Commissioner, Peter Abayomi, said a 30-year-old man, Abdullahi Fatai, who was suspected of having killed his wife, was also arrested.

    He said: “Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect and his wife Olayode Morenike (late) had always quarreled over the issue of going to check on her child in her former marriage. The suspects after killing the deceased took pictures of the body and locked the corpse in the house till late night before raising an alarm.”

  • Lagos terminal acquires N10.5b mobile harbour crane to boost operations

    Lagos terminal acquires N10.5b mobile harbour crane to boost operations

    Nigeria’s largest multipurpose terminal, the Port and Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML), has acquired a new state of the art 600 tons Liebherr Mobile Harbour Crane (MHC) worth more than seven million euros (about N10.5 billion) to boost its operation at Lagos port, it was learnt.

    PTML Terminal is a Greenfield terminal developed and owned by the Grimaldi Group in Lagos.

    The acquisition of the new crane, findings revealed, is coming barely five months after the terminal hosted the largest container-RORO ship to visit Nigeria and the West African sub-region.

    Its managing director, Ascanio Russo, also disclosed that the terminal has invested an additional N5 billion to strengthen Berth 11 to withstand the weight of the new Mobile Harbour Crane.

    According to him, the new crane is fitted with smart technology and is among the most powerful cargo-handling equipment in the world.

    “Our commitment is to ensure prompt service delivery to shipping lines and our landside customers. We pride ourselves on rendering top-quality service to the lines, importers, exporters, and agents. We also make it our business to ensure that all approved government agencies at our terminal operate in the most conducive environment.

    “We are also committed to ensuring that our staff work with the best equipment available in the market, hence our investment of seven million euros to acquire the new 600 tons Liebherr Mobile Harbour Crane. It is one of the best and strongest pieces of port machinery in the world.

    “PTML is known for prompt service delivery. We have the fastest cargo delivery record in any Nigerian port. Customers take delivery of their cargo within 48 hours at our terminal. We have many instances where we were able to deliver cargo in less than 24 hours. This is because we continually invest in our operations. I am happy to say that this new equipment will make our service even better and faster,” Russo said.

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    He said the new Mobile Harbour Crane will improve productivity and work on a wide range of vessels, especially gearless vessels visiting the terminal.

    In December 2023, he said, the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, and other notable personalities visited the terminal to receive the “MV Great Lagos” – the largest container-RORO ship to visit Nigeria and the West African sub-region.

    “At PTML, we have always prided ourselves on being at the forefront of technological advancement and operational efficiency. Our terminal, the largest multipurpose terminal in Nigeria, stands as a clear demonstration of our ambitions. In the last year alone, we have invested over USD20 million to upgrade our facilities to receive this beautiful ship.

    “We have been extending our quay by over 40 meters while strengthening it to enable us to receive and operate a new Mobile Harbour Crane. All of this to accommodate the “Great Lagos.”

    “This investment underscores our strive to achieve operational excellence while delivering efficient and cost-effective logistics services to the broader Nigerian economy and its people. It reinforces our position as a key player in the maritime sector and confirms our readiness to take the port of Lagos on larger roles in the global trading community,” he said.