The Nation Newspaper

Category: Law

  • ‘How to scale Law School hurdle’

    ‘How to scale Law School hurdle’

    For Chidinma Jacqueline Ajabor, her resolve to study law was sealed from the moment she was conceived. Although there were challenges on the way, being prayerful and having a lawyer-mother helped. She graduated with a second class degree in law from the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka. In this interview with ANNE AGBI, she shared her formula for scaling through Law School and her wish to influence the profession positively.

    Chidinma Ajabor, 24, is a native of Umunede in Ika North East, Local Government Area of Delta State. She was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2022 after the completion of her one year Law School programme at the Nigerian Law School Bwari, Abuja and five years LL.B degree programme at the Delta State University, Abraka Oleh campus.She currently works with Ken E. Mozia (SAN) and Co.

    Family of lawyers

    Chidinma is from a family of lawyers. Her mother Mrs. Promise Ezinwa Okwuokei-Ajabor is a lawyer while her younger sister,  Jessica, is still in school studying law at the Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo, Ughelli, Delta State.

    She said: “I’m not the only lawyer in my family, my mother, Promise Ezinwa Okwuokei-Ajabor is a lawyer as well. Though she is no longer practising because she is now on the bench of the Area Customary Court, Ekuku Agbor, Delta State.

    Journey through university, Law School

     Every successful journey has its high and low moments, and Chidinmas’ was not an exemption.  She  had lots of memorable experiences while in school and even now that she is a practising lawyer. While most of them were good, others were not. She, however, said she had better experiences while in the law school compared to the university and will remain thankful to God for seeing her through.

    “I must commend the fact that Nigerian Law School is a straight forward institution to a very large extent. In my opinion, there’s no such thing as victimisation of students, you will get whatever grade you deserve unlike what happens in some Nigerian universities, where for instance, if a lecturer wants you as a female student and can’t have you, they resort to victimising you and all manner of things. So, I can boldly say I  had better experiences in the law school than in the university”, she said.

    Sharing memorable events from school, , she said: “one incident comes to mind, though not a pleasant one. When I was about to graduate from the university something happened, something most people would refer to as village people even if I differ.

    “I had sat for a test in a particular course (jurisprudence) but when the result came out, it showed that I didn’t sit for that test, no score was recorded for me in the test. When I got the report, I had to put pressure on the faculty because I wrote that test and I had also signed the attendance sheet. So, there’s no such thing as I didn’t write the test. The lecturer had to go back and check all the scripts again and found mine, it turned out that I was the best in that jurisprudence test.

    “It was an experience I would never forget because if the issue had not been rectified, it would have cost me at least an extra year in school.

    “I would never want to present my alma mater in bad light, but I just hope a lot of changes are made in the future in areas of competence because it’s clear to me that some of those things haven’t changed still. I have many stories to tell, but not today.”

    Father’s dream for her

    Chidinma stated that her father had always wanted her to be a doctor. She also said that her other relatives tried to dissuade her by saying lawyers do not earn much but that did not hinder her from becoming a lawyer like her mother.

    “I remember at a point, my dad said he wanted me to be a doctor, other relatives tried to dissuade me by saying lawyers are always broke, but  I  told them that I can never be a broke lawyer.

    “A lawyer from the womb”

    “May be my mom inspired me into becoming a lawyer and I have not regretted it one bit. I have always wanted to be a lawyer, in fact, I started studying law while I was still in my mother’s womb because at the time my mom took in and had me, she was a law student. So as soon as I started talking as a baby all I kept saying was I wanted to be a lawyer.

    “In a way, I think my mother influenced my decision in becoming a lawyer. Growing up, my mom was my best friend and is still my best friend till date. Being her first child,  we were always together. I always watched in admiration as she did her lawyer thing and like I said earlier, all I have always wanted to be is a lawyer not just a lawyer but one with a positive difference.

    “She also influenced me in the sense that even when others tried to discourage me from being a lawyer, my mom always encouraged me and she would always say a lawyer can never be poor no matter what and in fact she wanted all her three daughters to be lawyers.

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    How mother made law study easier

    “My mother being a lawyer made the course easier to study  in the sense that I always get materials and diverse opinions on different law topics when necessary because I had access to not just her but to so many other lawyers and opportunities to discuss with them.

    “As a child, I already had lots of lawyer friends courtesy of my mom. Also some of the lecturers I had in school were my mother’s friends. So approaching them was quite easy. She also gave me lots of advice that helped me in school since it’s an experience she already had. One of the most valuable things she told me was to start reading the first day I enter law school if I want to make a good grade. By the grace of God, it worked and I made a 2.1 in law school.

    Being in same profession with her was interesting

    “It’s interesting being in the same profession with my mom. We had our arguments, learn from each other, she helps me do some   law stuff, I help her too and so on, its fun. A lot of people want to be like us.

    “I was born for this, even then when we played the “sandalili game”, I always sang “I am a lawyer in my country, everybody knows me well. If you look at me up and down you will know that it’s true.”

    I’ll be a lawyer again and again

    Chidinma   said that she can never pick another  profession. “There’s  no other profession to pick. It is either law or law for me’’, she said.

    She, however, noted that there were lots of challenges which she said were normal, but she overcame them by the Grace of God. She emphasised the power of prayer and how It helped her succeed.

    How I scaled Law School

    On how she went through Law School successfully, Chidinma said: “The formula for scaling through Law School  is to pray, for those that believe in prayer. Study hard and it should be the right materials not materials from Jegede market like my former lecturer, Dr Afolayan will always say. May God bless his gentle soul. Attend lectures and listen attentively to lecturers in class, this is very important. Get enough sleep/rest, eat well and surround yourself with the right people. With all these you’re sure of having a first class or at least a second class upper. This was my almighty formula.

    “I engaged in extra-curricular activities but I didn’t allow them come in between  my studies. One of my hobbies is traveling, so yeah while in school I travelled a lot during weekends, but most. times with my books. I’m not a fan of attending parties but I partied a few times with my friends.

    Call to Bar

    “My family was happy as expected but only my mom attended the ceremony because  my immediate family do not stay in Abuja. Aside this, the invitation card admitted only one person. So, there were too many constraints. After the call to bar ceremony, there was a small get-

     together in the evening. My aunty who lives in Abuja, a few of her friends and a few of my friends were present at the party.”

    Unfair grading system

    Chidinma said the law school grading system is not fair and that  everyone has a problem with it. I know it’s already a cliche that in Law School,  you’re judged by your least grade. So out of the five courses, if you get four As and 1C  that’s an ordinary pass to say the least. Some people even find themselves in worse situations. I only appreciate the fact that they don’t victimise. No lecturer would ask you for sex in exchange for  grades. The Law School is strict with that and I heard that it is  automatic sack for any staff caught wanting in that aspect. You get what you deserve more often than not.

    Chidinma also stated that she wouldn’t mind getting married to a lawyer because they are nice people whilst advocating for the wig and gown not to be scrapped, she said it adds beauty and glamour to the profession. She noted that it’s already a tradition borrowed from the British and would like it to continue.

    Exodus of lawyers

    On her thoughts on the recent exodus of lawyers from the profession/country,  she blamed the situation of things in the country as the reason for the increase and high rate of migration from the country,  saying the economy is bad and there’s high rate of insecurity. .

    “So, I really don’t blame the  lawyers who are leaving. They are also not left out in the effects of the whole situation. I heard that the exchange rate of naira to dollar is now about N1,500  to one dollar. So,  it is safe to assume that for most people, it will be better to leave than to stay here.

    “Japa thoughts is not really bad, being in Nigeria is also not really bad. It’s not the location that matters. Personally, I believe I can be successful irrespective of my geographical location.”

    Future plans

    Chidinma said all future plans are in God’s hands and she trusts him to give her the best.

    “I’m very optimistic. However, I plan to continue practising law wherever I am and in whatever capacity. However, I wish to become either  a judge or a professor.

    Embarrassing moment in court

    She said: “on that day, I came in while the court was already sitting because I had a matter in another court. When I entered, I sat on a chair and I didn’t know the chair was bad that was how I fell flat on the ground and everyone turned back. I was really embarrassed, it happened at High Court, Owa Oyibu, Ika, North East, Delta State

    Experience so far

    “Since my call to bar in 2022, I have been in very active practice, my areas of practice include litigation(divorce petitions, election petition, other forms of civil litigations), corporate law practice, property law practice and a lot more.

    “Before my call to bar, I had also worked in law firms as a litigation officer or legal assistant. I did this for over a year after my graduation from the university, before I proceeded to Nigerian Law School. I’ve worked with my mom while she was still in practice. P.E AJABOR and Co ,was the name of her law firm. Thereafter,  I worked with Raymond Isitor Esq and a few other lawyers before I was officially called to the bar.

  • Falana decries increasing abduction of pupils

    Falana decries increasing abduction of pupils

    Rights activist Mrs Funmi Falana (SAN) has called for drastic action to prevent increasing abduction of school children.

    She urged security agencies to rescue the 287 pupils abducted from a Kaduna school last Thursday.

    She said everything must be done to avoid a repeat of the Chibok girls incident.

    The pupils were abducted from the Local Education Authority (LEA) primary school in Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna.

    Bandits also kidnapped 15 pupils from the Gidan Bakuso area of Gada Local Government Area in Sokoto State on Saturday.

    Falana spoke at an event organised by her NGO, the Women Empowerment and Legal Aid (WELA), to mark this year international Women’s Day.

    She said the worsening insecurity, especially kidnapping of school children, was worrisome.

    The WELA founder also decried the plight of women, saying they should be treated fairly and carried along in decision-making.

    Commenting on the theme of this year’s IWD: “Invest in women: accelerate progress,” Falana said: “Women should be included in decision-making. They should not be dragged back.”

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    The activist stressed the need for the society to recognise women and not regarding them as inferior to men or the boy child as superior to the girl child.

    She said WELA would not relent in its efforts and activities despite daunting challenges in advocating for women’s rights.

    The SAN added that WELA’s work includes taking young people away from the streets and putting them in an institution of learning run by the NGO.

    Falana said: “What we do is to get them out of the streets; and not just that, we put them in our vocational institute.”

    The WELA College of Vocational Training offers programmes in tailoring, hairdressing, shoemaking, makeup, catering and ICT departments.

    The IWD 2024 celebration by WELA featured a variety of presentations by the students of WELA College of Vocational Training, such as dance and drama.

  • Lawyer advises against future pandemic

    Lawyer advises against future pandemic

    Lawyer and Deputy Publisher of Lawbreed Publications, Mrs. Adejoke Layi-Babatunde has urged the federal governments and the medical world to rise up and be more prepared and strategic in the way of protect their citizens’ health when there is another pandemic like COVID-19.

    She said the lessons from COVID-19 should not be easily forgotten, noting that the pandemic ravaged the world four years ago.

    Mrs Layi-Babatunde gave the advise at the launching of her new book  titled; “Whispers of Resilience: Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic and Living Mindfully”

    Mrs Layi-Babatunde who is co-publisher of Supreme Court judgments said for those who survived COVID-19, “sometimes the experience appears blurry and surreal”, adding that the impact of the pandemic was not only felt on humans, health structures but travel, businesses, education, families, interactions and life generally.

    Speaking on her new book, Mrs Layi- Babatunde said the ten chapters book provide “a realistic picture of the impact of COVID-19, how it shapes life economically”.

    She added that the book dealt with what is needed to rebuild a dynamic life as well as how pandemic aided the use of technology in the country.

    “This book is written to reflect on the Covid-19 Pandemic, the first major pandemic known to us. The Spanish Flu happened over a hundred years before the Covid-19 pandemic. The preventive measures such as wearing of face masks, washing of hands, quarantining, self-isolation, social distancing etc. used way back then for the Spanish Flu were also used in curbing the COVID-19 pandemic when it broke out, therefore, history and documentation are extremely vital.

    “Life as we know it will be enjoyable and progressive when we realize that our actions now will reverberate and echo for generations yet to come. Is anything therefore new under the sun? Life surely goes in circles.”

    She however decried the initial lack of proper information when the pandemic broke. She said, “ It was crucial to combat misinformation by relying on reputable sources, such as government health agencies, established scientific research, and verified experts.

    According to her, “there were instances where misleading information regarding ineffective prevention measures were shared. Examples include the notion that wearing masks is harmful or that specific supplements can boost immunity significantly. Following guidance from reputable health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), was essential for accurate information on preventive measures.

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    “Fact-checking information before sharing it and promoting media literacy can contribute to countering the spread of misinformation during any pandemic. The lasting impact of COVID-19 on public health cannot be overstated. “

    She therefore called on government at all level and the medical world to rise up to the occasion in a more prepared, strategic way to swiftly protect their citizens’ health when there is another pandemic.Healthcare need to improve over generations

    She said: “The 1918 Pandemic Flu killed Several millions out of the so many millions of people infected with the virus worldwide. The number infected was one-third of the human population at that time. It was the first pandemic recorded in the 20th Century.

    At that time, knowledge about treating and preventing such a pandemic was not advanced.”

    The  event was chaired by Mr. Wale Adesokan (SAN), attended by people from different countries as well various professionals and some survivors of the pandemic who shared their experiences.

    Dr Chigozie Mbadugha, a Consultant Ophthalmologist and head, Editorial Department, Camba Books while reviewing the book said that Mrs Layi- Babatunde chronicles the impact of the pandemic life generally.

    Mbadugha noted that the author reviewed past pandemics and looks at the resilience and resourcefulness of the human spirit.

    “She details the inventions that the desire to solve the problems and challenges that manifested during the pandemic produced and gives kudos to the inventors. Adejoke has taken on the bold task of writing about a topic that some do not dare to because some people would rather forget. I am glad this book will hit our shelves soon because I remember looking for literature about the Spanish Flu which happened in 1918 and wondering why there was so little information about it until COVID-19 took the world by storm.

    “She takes a philosophical stance about what really matters and what is really a priority for man when faced with an invisible enemy like COVID-19”.

    The book reviewer said “Whispers of Resilience”  is a book that should be in every family, school, and public library, noting that “it provides first hand information and facts for generations to come about a pandemic we witnessed and how we overcame.”

     Onalaja said the book is a constant reminder of the trauma people went through. He  said the book is impactful, added that it is a book that should be in every learning institution.

    Daramola said such a book is a heritage that will serve as guide present and future.

    The event also had in attendance, the first female Attorney General of Lagos State, Hariat Balogun (SAN), the Lawbreed Publisher, Mr Layi Babatunde (SAN),  Dele Adeshina (SAN), Engineer Olaitan Onalaja, Chief Iyiola Oladokun and Sheriff Daramola among others.

  • Expert seeks climate change ministry

    Expert seeks climate change ministry

    A lawyer and intellectual property  expert, Peter Akpu, has urged President Bola Tinubu to establish the Ministry of Climate Change, Sustainable Development and Disaster Risk Management.

    He also suggested that government should appoint Prof. Damilola  Olawuyi, (SAN), as pioneer Minister of Climate Change, Energy Transition and Sustainable Development ahead of 2030 SDG’s Agenda and Nigeria 2050 net Zero GHG emission agenda.

    Akpu made the call on Tuesday on his LinkedIn page profile as government sets to implement the Orosanye report 14 years after it’s submission to the Federal Government

    Akpu contended that Climate Change, energy transition and Sustainable Development have become a matter of great discourse among countries and great economies of the world.

    He said the effect of climate change, energy transition and the need for sustainable development has attracted the attention of the world powers and Nigeria shouldn’t be left out.

    “Japan recently and in the bid to curb the effect of climate change provides assistance by introducing renewable energy, including solar energy, biomass and geothermal, and facilities with high-energy efficiency, to contribute to reducing GHG emissions.

    The intellectual property expert advised the Government to take proactive steps like other countries of the world are doing.

    “The implementation of Orosanye’s committee report will see to the scraping, subsuming, merging and relocation of several ministries and agencies of government which is a sort of restructuring the country.

    “This present administration should be bold enough and strongly willed to establish the Ministry of Climate Change, Sustainable Development and Energy transition.”

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    According to him, Prof.  Olawuyi, (SAN), is an international lawyer, professor of law, arbitrator, author, and policy consultant , w i t h expertise in petroleum, energy and environmental law.

    “In 2015, Professor Olawuyi was promoted to the rank of full Professor of Law at Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria at the age of 32, becoming one of the youngest full professors of law in Nigerian history.

    “He is Deputy Vice Chancellor,

    Chancellor’s Fellow and Director of the Institute for Oil, Gas, Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development (OGEES Institute), Afe Babalola University, Nigeria.

    He holds the UNESCO Chair on Environmental Law and Sustainable Development at HBKU Law School, Doha, Qatar where he teaches energy and environmental law courses. Professor Olawuyi provides legal services as a Senior Counsel and Arbitrator at McNair International Law Firm.

    “Prof. Olawuyi is a visiting counsel to several Nigerian and global law firms where he provides high level professional legal support in accordance with International standard practice.

    “A prolific and highly regarded scholar, Prof. Olawuyi has practised and taught law in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America and the Middle East.

    He was formerly an international energy lawyer at Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP, Calgary, where he served on the firm’s global committee on extractive resource investments in Africa. He was also formerly deputy director and head of international environmental law at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, Waterloo, Canada.

    “He has published several influential journal articles and books on natural resources, energy and environmental law. He has been an expert speaker and commentator at several international conferences.

    His most recent book publications include: Environmental Law in Arab States (Oxford University Press, 2022), Local Content and Sustainable Development in Global Energy Markets (Cambridge University Press, 2021), Climate Change Law and Policy in the Middle East and North Africa Region (Routledge, 2021), Extractives Industry Law in Africa (Springer, 2018) and The Human Rights-Based Approach to Carbon Finance (Cambridge University Press, 2016).

    “Prof. Olawuyi is President of the International Law Association, Nigerian Branch; co-chair of the Africa Interest Group of the American Society of International Law (2016- 2019); and member of the Academic Advisory Group of the International Bar Association’s Section on Energy, Environment, Natural Resources and Infrastructure Law (SEERIL).

    He is the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Sustainable Development Law and Policy; Associate Editor of the Carbon and Climate Law Review; and Senior Research Fellow of the Centre for International Sustainable Development Law, Montreal, Canada. He is a member of the Governing Council of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria, and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators.

    Prof. Olawuyi has lectured on energy and environmental law in over 50 countries including: Qatar, Great Britain, Greece, France, Denmark, United States, Australia, Spain, China, India, Kenya, Netherlands, Canada, United States and across Nigeria.

    “He has most recently served as BOK Visiting International Professor (VIP) at the University of Pennsylvania, United States. He previously received the Herbert Smith Freehills Visiting Professorship at the University of Cambridge, UK and the IAS Vanguard Fellowship of the University of Birmingham.

    He has served also served as a visiting professor of law at the China University of Political Science and Law, Beijing; University Research Fellow at the Consortium for Peace Studies, University of Calgary; and David Sive Scholar at Columbia Law School, New York, United States.

    In recognition of his “substantial contribution to legal scholarship and jurisprudence,” Professor Olawuyi was awarded the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (Queen’s Counsel equivalent) in the year 2020, aged 37, therefore becoming the youngest academic ever elevated to the rank, and the very first graduate of a private university to become Senior Advocate of Nigeria. From 2020-2022, Professor Olawuyi served as an Independent Expert on the African Commission’s Working Group on Extractive Industries, Environment and Human Rights. In 2021, he was appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari as a member of the Governing Board of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). In 2022, he was appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council to represent Africa as an Independent Expert on the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights.

    Professor Olawuyi has been admitted as Barrister and Solicitor in Alberta, Canada; Ontario, Canada; and Nigeria. He is a regular media commentator on all aspects of energy, climate change, international affairs, environment and sustainable development.

    His areas of expertise include: Petroleum law,  International environmental law, Business and Human Rights in the Global Economy,  Climate change law and policy, Natural resources law and policy,  Food and agricultural law,  Project finance, Entrepreneurship law and International Commercial Arbitration.

    He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Law (Dphil), University of Oxford, United Kingdom, Master of Laws (LL.M), Harvard University, United States,  Master of Laws (LL.M), University of Calgary, Canada, Bar Certificate (First Class Honours), Nigerian Law School, Abuja and Bachelor of Laws (First Class Honours), Igbinedion University, Okada, Nigeria among others.

  • Court stops IGP from arresting Epe royal family head

    Court stops IGP from arresting Epe royal family head

    A Lagos State High Court sitting in Epe has restrained the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and six others, their officers, men and agents from arresting, detaining or inviting Otunba Abduwasiu Musa-Adebamowo,  whether individually or collectively, in connection with a dispute touching on his headship of Ewade Ruling House of Igboye.

    The IGP was also restrained from doing or taking any action against his powers and rights of management of the family’s landed properties in Abapawa, Gbojuwara, Talase, Idotun and Legumo villages of Igboyeland, in Epe Eredo, Lagos State.

    Justice Wasiu Animahun, who issued the restraining orders while delivering judgment in a suit  EPD/15044MFHR/2023 filed by the applicant, -Otunba Musa-Adebamowo,  said that the order will subsist until the determination of the suit on which the order of injunction was made.

    Others restrained by the orders of injunction by the court included  the Assistant Inspector-General of Police  (Force CID Annex, Alagbon Close, Ikoyi, Laogs State);  Assistant Inspector-General of Police (Zone 2 Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos State); Commissioner of Police,  (Lagos State Command, Ikeja, Lagos State); Commissioner of Police (Special Fraud Unit) Milverton Road, Ikoyi, Lagos State); Deputy Commissioner of Police  (State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Yaba) and

    The Area Commander, Nigeria Police Force (Area J Command, Elemoro, Lagos State) who were listed as 2nd to 7th defendants in the suit.

    The court  granted an order  restraining the 1st to  7th respondents and their officer, men and agents from harassing, intimidating, inviting, arresting, detaining and compelling the applicant  to render account of the management of the family’s landed properties to the 8th to  14th respondents under whatever guise or means, until the final determination of the suit .

    Justice Animahun also made an order of injunction  restraining the 1st to 7th respondents and their officers, men and agents from re-investigating the applicant on the same criminal allegation made against the  applicant. by the 8th to 14th respondents and/or their privies and cohorts in respect of the management of the account of the family landed properties, until the determination of the suit in which an order of interlocutory injunction was made.

    The 8th to 14th respondents respectively in the suit are Julius Adenuga Lawal; Caleb Adeleke Ogunnubi; Felix Olusegun Adekoya; Kayode Adebowale ; Adedayo Victor Sunday; Musiliu Abiodun Musa; Sunday Abiodun Adebowale; Keshab Properties And Investments Ltd; Aviance Homes And Properties Ltd; and CMW Properties Limited.

    The court made an order awarding N1million in favour of the applicant the sum of against the 8th  – 17th respondents jointly and severally as general damages for the persistent breaches by the 1st to 7th respondents of the fundamental rights of the applicant to dignity of human person, personal liberty, right to fair hearing and freedom of movement.

    A sum of N2 million was also awarded as cost of action jointly and severally against the 8th–17th respondents.

    Hassan Fajimite and Bisiriyu Adeki appeared for the  applicant while Aderemi Oguntoye and J. A. Agbo appeared for the 15th – 17th respondents while  there was no legal representation for others during trial.

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    Justice Animahun, citing several authorities and decided cases declared that “the series and unending invitations, unlawful harassment, intimidation and  uncivilised humiliation, arrest and detentions of the applicant, by the officers of the Nigeria Police Force in respect of and in connection with the dispute concerning and touching on the headship of Ewade Ruling House of Igboye, in Eredo Local Council Development Area of Lagos State and his powers and rights of management of the family’s landed properties in Abapawa, Gbojuwara, Talase, Idotun and Legumo villages of Igboye, Epe, Lagos State at the instances, instigations and upon malicious and unfounded petitions from and by the 8th—17th respondents are illegal, unlawful and unconstitutional and a breach of the fundamental rights to dignity of human persons, personal liberty and freedom of movement of the applicant.”

    The court also declared that the applicant, Otunba Abduwasiu Musa-Adebamowo, as head of Ewade Ruling House, Igboye cannot be compelled by the 1st – 7th  respondents to render account and/or submit family documents on the management of the family landed properties to the 8th—14th respondents, especially when the same 8th – 14th  respondents have filed several civil actions namely, Suit No. EPD/10895LMW/2021: Chief Caleb Adeleke Okuboyejo & Ors v. Otunba Abdulwasiu Musa-Adebamowo & Ors, Suit No. EPD/8670GCMW/2022: Mr. Julius Adenuga Lawal v. OtunbaAbdulwasiu Musa-Adebamowo and Suit No. EPD/8996GCMW/2022: Otunba Abdulwasiu Musa-Adebamowo v. Mr. Julius Adenuga Lawal at the High Court of Lagos State, Epe Judicial Division praying inter alia for orders for rendering accounts of the management of the family’s landed properties and dispute on the headship of the family until final determination of the suit, in which an order of interlocutory injunction was granted. 

    The court declared that the continued and unabated harassment and ill-motivated spirited efforts of the 1st to 7th respondents and their officers and men to compel the applicant as Head of Ewade Ruling House to render account on the management of family landed properties to the 8th – 14th respondents and/or be re-investigated in respect of same when initial investigation carried out by the 2nd respondent had absolved the applicant of culpability, is unconstitutional, null and void by reason of the fact that the criminal allegation made against the applicant by has been investigated by the Nigeria Police and reports on same has been submitted to the Director of Public Prosecution, Lagos State and whose reports has indicated that no prima facie case has been established against him. 

    The court declared that the continued and unabated instigation, procurement and use of the 1st  to 7th  respondents, their officers, men and agents by the 8th  to 17th respondents to intimidate and compel the applicant to consent to the unlawful alienations and/or development or further development of the family landed properties in Abapawa, Gbojuwara, Talase, Idotun and Legumo villages of Igboye or any part thereof is unlawful, illegal, unconstitutional, null and void. 

    The court considered all petitions by the respondents and noted  that most of them and Police invitations were made before the Interlocutory order and were made pursuant to the alleged removal of the applicant as the head of the family.

    The court held that from the date of the order, one does not expect further feud on the family land, except if the 8th – 11th and 13th respondents persist in doing what they were restrained from doing by the court.

     The judge reminded the respondents of the various enrolled orders of interlocutaory injunctions restraining them and  held that if the respondents abide by the orders, violence would have ceased on the family lands.

    “I therefore feel that the continued use of the Police is  an attempt to overreach and circumvent the Court Order and the Director of Public Prosecution’s advice.

    They appear to feel frustrated and therefore resorted to the use of Police to continue the harassment and intimidation of the applicant.

    “I need to remind them that the power of the office of the Attorney General to prosecute suspects is absolutely subject to his discretion. This follows his power of nolle prosequi. Citing relevant authorities, the court held that the steps being taken by the respondents now are targeted towards infringing the applicant’s fundamental Human rights and must therefore be stopped.”

     The court reminded the respondents of an excerpt from the Director of Public Prosecution’s advice, dated 04/10/2022, which reads: “However, there are nothing in the duplicate case file to support the allegations by Page B1, Chief and Apostle Kayode Adebowale, that one Lawyer Musa and others armed with knife, cutlass, woods, charms and guns attacked him and tore his clothes on 8” day of February, 2022. 

    “It is also noted that criminal allegations of conduct likely to cause breach, Misuse of power and diversion of family funds contained in Petition dated 28” January, 2022

    purportedly signed by one Adebowale Olufemi against Otunba Abdulwasiu Musa Adebamowo was unsubstantiated. There are nothing in the duplicate case file to indicate that Page Bl diverted family funds or conducted himself in a manner likely to cause a breach of peace. 

    “Consequently, this office shall not prosecute  Otunba Abdulwasiu Musa Adebowale as there are insufficient facts linking Page BI to the alleged offences. Page BI is hereby released and discharged forthwith.” 

    In respect of various petitions by the respondents, the judge held, “even if they were justified in writing, all the above petitions made before the Interlocutory Injunction of 13/12/2022 and the director of Public Prosecution’s advice, dated 04/10/2022, are they also justified to write petitions after the order and the advice in favour of the applicant? Exhibit KA2 is a Police letter of invitation dated 09/05/2023. This was after the Order and the advice in favour of the applicant. 

    “In view of the Order and the advice, it is my view and I so hold that the respondents are all estopped pending the determination of the suit in which the order was made from challenging his status as the head of the family. 1 state this because it is my duty as a Judge to ensure that Court Orders are obeyed.

    “Further, headship of a family is a civil right. Accordingly, I hold that the Police have no power to investigate or determine a dispute on it. This aligns with the position of the law that Police have no roles in civil conflicts”, he held, citing necessary authority to support his decision..

     The court further held: “The 1st  and 2nd  respondents had no plausible justification for the arrest and detention of the applicant on the 3rf respondent’s complaint dispute which prima facie shows a civil contractual and that they were invited or instigated by an acclaimed money lender to act as his debt collector.

    “Be it reiterated again that once a transaction is in form of a contract, the police are enjoined to exercise restraint.

     Police duties under the relevant statutes including the Police Act, do not enjoin the police to act as debt collectors. Debt collection is therefore ultra vires their enabling statutes”.

    Justice Animahun further held: “ the petitions seeking for him to render account of his service as the head of the family were also anchored on his removal as the head of the family. Again, the Order takes care of this. It cannot be reviewed until after the final determination of the case in which it was made.

    “It is amazing that the 8th respondent, that allegedly replaced the applicant as the head of the family would sell large expanse of family land to the 15th – 17th respondents and still be pursuing his allegations against the applicant after the ruling in the applicant’s favour.

     “In my view, the 8th respondent is indeed the party that should render an account to the Applicant on the sale effected by him. This is the effect of the admission by the 15”17” Respondents that he sold family land to them.”

    Justice Animahun held that the persistent of the dispute among the parties arises from the misconception of the 8th – 17th respondents that the Order of 13/12/2022 does not affect the sale effected by them prior to the date of the Order.

    “I think that they are wrong because if, in the final determination of the suit, the removal of the applicant as the head of the family is nullified, the sale to the 15th to 17th respondents becomes null and void. 

    The judge said the law is settled that the head of a family is a trustee and is therefore accountable” to the family.

    This may justify the petitions written prior to the date of the Order as applicant did not deny selling family lands. As stated by the Applicant and also shown in some of the suits exhibited by the parties, there is a relief against the applicant for an account to be rendered by him. The challenge is that further investigation/or prosecution after the date of the Order may result into his removal and thus render the Order nugatory. 

    “The 15th -17th respondents denied writing a petition to the Police, ‘as discredited by exhibit KA 6 to the further affidavit, dated 25/10/2023.

    On all the grounds stated above, the court held the applicant’s case succeeds. And entered judgment in favour of the applicant. 

    Justice Animahun held that the steps being taken by the respondents  now “are targeted towards infringing the applicant’s fundamental Human rights and must therefore be stopped.”

     “In stating all these petitions, my view is to determine the justification/motive behind them. That is, even if they were justified in writing all the above petitions made before the Interlocutory Injunction of 13/12/2022 and the director of Public Prosecution’s advice, dated 04/10/2022, are they also justified to write petitions after the Order and the advice in favour of the Applicant? Exhibit KA2 is a Police letter of invitation dated 09/05/2023. This was after the Order and the advice in favour of the Applicant. 

    “In view of the Order and the advice, it is my view and I so hold that the Respondents are all estopped pending the determination of the suit in which the Order was made from challenging his status as the head of the family.

    1 state this because it is my duty as a Judge to ensure that Court Orders are obeyed. Further, headship of a family is a civil right. Accordingly, I hold that the Police have no power to investigate or determine a dispute on it. This aligns with the position of the law that Police have no roles in civil conflicts. 

    “The 1” and 2™ Respondents had ao plausible justification for the arrest and detention of the applicant on the 3 Respondent’s complaint dispute which prima facie shows a civil contractual and that they were invited or instigated by an acclaimed money lender to act as his debt collector.

    “Be it reiterated again that  once a transaction is in form of a contract, the police are enjoined to exercise restraint. Police duties under the relevant statutes including the Police Act, do not enjoin the police to act as debt collectors. Debt collection is therefore ultra vires their enabling statutes”. 

    The Petitions seeking for him to render account of his service as the head of the family were also anchored on his removal as the head of the family. Again, the Order takes care of this. It cannot be reviewed until after the final determination of the case in which it was made. It is amazing that the 8° Respondent, that allegedly replaced the Applicant as the head of the family would sell large expanse of family land to the 15 — 17” Respondents and still be pursuing his allegations against the Applicant after the ruling in the Applicant’s favour. 

    In my view, the 8” Respondent is indeed the party that should render an account to the Applicant on the sale effected by him. This is the effect of the admission by the 15”17” Respondents that he sold family land to them. The

    The persistent of the dispute among the parties arises from the misconception of the 8th — 17th respondents that the Order of 13/12/2022 does not affect the sale effected by them prior to the date of the Order. I think that they are wrong because if, in the final determination of the suit, the removal of the Applicant as the head of the family has nullified, the sale to the 15 — 17* Respondents becomes null and void. 

    The law is settled that the head of a family is a trustee and is therefore accountable” to the family. This may justify the petitions written prior to the date of the Order, as Applicant did not deny selling family lands. As stated by the Applicant and also shown in some of the suits exhibited by the parties, there is a relief against the Applicant for an account to be rendered by him. The challenge is that further investigation/or prosecution after the date of the Order may result into his removal and thus render the Order nugatory.

    “On all the grounds stated above, the court held  that the applicant’s case succeeds and entered judgment in favour of the applicant”, the judge said.

  • Call to Bar: Prada Uzodimma congratulates beneficiaries of PUSG, says be good ambassadors

    Call to Bar: Prada Uzodimma congratulates beneficiaries of PUSG, says be good ambassadors

    Barrister Prada Uzodimma, daughter of Imo Governor Hope Uzodimma, has felicitated  recipients of the Prada Uzodimma Law School Scholarship Grant (PUSG) as they joined the ranks of Barristers and Solicitors of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

    She extended heartfelt congratulations and goodwill to the 10 beneficiaries of the grant who made the 2023 call to Bar, acknowledging their dedication and hard work in passing their examinations.

    According to her: “The PUSG is a collaborative Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative between Barrister Uzodimma and Principle Legal Consult, aimed to support deserving yet financially disadvantaged law students across Nigeria, providing them with a pathway to achieve their legal aspirations.”

    Uzodimma noted that all the 10 scholars from the 2022 cohort have successfully completed their law degrees, “a testament to their commitment and the effectiveness of the PUSG initiative.”

    She encouraged the new legal professionals to embody the values of integrity, intellect, and justice as they embark on their legal careers, making them exemplary representatives of the PUSG ethos.

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    The UK-trained legal icon  added:  “The PUSG, along with its partners, is dedicated to facilitating career opportunities for its alumni to further their professional growth.”

    Reflecting on the PUSG’s journey, Barrister Uzodimma recalled its inception in 2021 in collaboration with Principle Legal Consult, starting with five beneficiaries.

    According to her, the scholarship, inspired by her desire to invest in the future of bright, aspiring lawyers, has since supported 30 law students, with plans to open applications for the 2024 cycle.

    Barrister Uzodimma reaffirmed  PUSG’s  commitment  to ease the difficulties for indigent but aspiring young lawyers across Nigeria to enable them realize their dreams of becoming lawyers.

     She emphasised the importance of giving back and providing opportunities to those who are in need, highlighting the transformative impact of the PUSG on the lives of its beneficiaries.

    “ A lot  of people often ask why I decided to launch the Prada Uzodimma Scholarship Grant, and my answer remains that we are investing in the future of young aspiring lawyers, we are giving them the opportunity they deserve,” she stated. 

  • Broken jinx, new dawn at Supreme Court

    Broken jinx, new dawn at Supreme Court

    Eleven Justices of the Supreme Court were inaugurated on February 26, raising the number to the constitutionally-prescribed 21. It is the first time in history that the highest court will have the full complement of justices. Will this result in prompt and effective justice dispensation? Assistant Editor ERIC IKHILAE was at the court yesterday to assess how the justices are settling in.

    THE Supreme Court made history on February 26 with the inauguration of the 11 newly appointed Justices.

    The event was historic; it was the first time the court would attain its full complement of 21 Justices as provided for in Section 230(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution.

    Yesterday, two panels of justices sat for the first time in a long while.

    Last Monday’s inauguration was billed for 10 am, but by 9 am, the main courtroom of the sprawling Supreme Court complex was filled to capacity with gaily dressed family members, friends and associates.

    So also was the adjourning spacious foyer, where three huge screens were mounted for guests to follow event as it progressed.

    Dressed in the traditional black suit on white shirts, the 11 new Justices were seated on the first few rows, to the left of the courtroom.

    Other members of the audience, including retired Justices of the court, Justices of the Court of Appeal and High Court judges, waited patiently for the commencement of the event.

    Also in the audience were Senior Advocates of Nigeria, non-SANs, journalists and politicians, including Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike and his counterpart in the Ministry of Works, David Umahi.

    At a little over 10 am, the traditional knock on the door to the Justices’ entrance was heard, following which a court official shouted: “court!!!”.

    The doors subsequently swung open, revealing a row of judicial officers, with the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Olukayode Ariwoola leading his brother Justices into the courtroom, indicating the commencement of the day’s event.

    On being called by the court’s Registrar, each of the new Justices stepped forward, took both the judicial oath and the oath of allegiance, shook hands with the CJN and proceeded to assume a seat on the apex court’s bench.

    Shortly after the last of the 11 Justices concluded the ritual, the CJN spoke about the significance of the event and what was expected of the jurists.

    Importance of the day

    On the importance of the day, the CJN said: “This is, indeed, an epoch-making ceremony.

    “I am very much exhilarated to, not only witness it, but also be privileged to administer the oath on these 11 eminent  Supreme    Court Justices.

    “It is a memory I will cherish all my life because it is unprecedented in the annals of the Nigerian Supreme Court.

    “Like I stated in my 2023/2024 legal year speech, precisely on Monday, the 27th day of December 2023, the inability of the court to meet up the statutory full complement of 21 Justices had lingered on for too long, thus appearing to be like a jinx.

    “I, thereafter, made a categorical pledge that before I finish my tenure as the Chief Justice of Nigeria, I would, by the special grace of God, do everything within my ability to break that jinx and get on board the well-deserved full complement of the court.

    “Today, as it were, it is apparent that all that is now history; a very palatable one at that for the Nigerian Judiciary and the country at large,” the CJN said.

    Expectations

    On what is expected of them, Justice Ariwoola urged the 11 Justices to remain faithful to the constitution and other extant laws, be morally upright and always exhibit a high level of integrity.

    The CJN added: “At this level of adjudication, your lordships should begin to see yourselves as the representatives of the Almighty God on earth, because any judgment given at this level, can only be upturned in heaven.

    “You must not, therefore, allow your personal ambition or any extraneous considerations to becloud your sense of judgment.

    “Your interactions with people of unenviable inclinations and pedigree, if any, must be halted forthwith.

    “Let your conscience guide and filter every thought that traverses your mind from this moment.”

    On what they should expect, Justice Ariwoola said they should expect more criticism and verbal assaults from losing parties in cases they preside over.

    He said: “I have no doubt that you may have, at one time or the other, been confronted with some forms of criticisms or verbal assaults by litigants who have lost their cases.

    “I want to assure you that more of such will come your way, especially as you now assume duties in the final court of the land, where appellants’ expectations are often very high and infectious.

    “There is no way you can please human beings, especially litigants. That is what it is. 

    “I am, however, making it abundantly clear to your lordships that the easiest way to fail in life is by trying to please everyone. The only deity you can fear is the Almighty God.

    “Once your judgment is in consonance with what God expects from you, and is also in accordance with the Constitution, you should consider yourself the happiest and freest person on earth.

    “Aside from that, every other thing you hear around you is mere noise or baseless agitation, which will naturally pale into insignificance when the chips are down.

    “Your elevation to the Supreme Court bench is obviously in recognition of your astuteness and evident passion for hard work, which is the hallmark of judicial excellence.

    “We are, indeed, very proud of your accomplishments thus far and fervently believe you will bring the opulent experience and dexterity to bear on your adjudication at the apex court.”

    How they’re settling in

    The event of February 26 effectively brought to a close what became an endless wait for the inauguration.

    The Senate confirmed their appointment on December 21 last year and communicated the situation to President Bola Tinubu, who in turn informed the National Judicial Council (NJC).

    The inauguration, however, did not take place until February 26, owing to what insiders said was the need to ensure that all necessary facilities were in place.

    Since their inauguration, the new Justices have started settling down to the reality of their current assignments.

    It was learnt that each has been allocated a temporary accommodation, pending when a permanent one will be ready.

    They have also been allocated offices, vehicles and some support staff as required, the court’s spokesman, Dr. Festus Akande said.

    Our reporter learnt that the new Justices have been taken through some sort of induction exercises.

    A meeting of all the Justices was held on Wednesday during which the new ones were formally introduced to “the way of life at the Supreme Court.”

    The new ones have also commenced sitting.

    Some of them were seen sitting with the older Justices.

    Benefits of a full bench

    Law experts, who hailed the decision of the appointing authorities to attain the full complement of the apex court, are unanimous that the increase in the number of Justices of the Supreme Court is a major plus.

    Dr Alex Izinyon (SAN) said: “With the new hands, there will be a sharp departure from what has been going on.”

    Izinyon conceded that the job of a judge is naturally stressful.

    He was, however, optimistic that the level of stress and volume of work on each of the Justices would be reduced with these additional hands.

    Izinyon added: “We are very happy about this development.”

    A former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN) expressed optimism that the enlarged bench of the Supreme Court would positively impact the speed at which cases are decided.

    Azinge argued that with the new hands, the general impression that cases take longer time to be dealt with in the country will be a thing of the past.

    Indeed, our reporter observed  that, as against the practise before now when only a panel sits, two panels sat simultaneously, which translates to the court’s ability to deal with more cases.

    Agitation for more Justices

    The appointment of the 11 new Justices for the apex court was a result of many months of agitation by judicial stakeholders, including lawyers and jurists.

    Since November 6, 2020, when eight Justices were last appointed to the Supreme Court, raising the number to 20, no other appointments were made despite the subsequent reduction in the number of the court’s Justices.

    This unusual development led many to begin to mount pressure on the appointing authorities to take the necessary steps before it became too late.

    Justices Amina Augie and Miss Dattijo Muhammad (both retired Justices of the Supreme Court), Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) including Femi Falana, Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George, John Baiyeshea, among others added their voices at one point or the other.

    Falana, in one of his interventions, expressed concern that the bodies vested with the appointment of Justices to the Supreme Court were lethargic.

    Prof. Akinseye-George warned then, that the depletion of the Supreme Court bench was detrimental to the administration of justice.

    On the effect of the depletion on the apex court’s bench, he noted that: “The justices are obviously overworked.

    “The CJN and Justice Augie (who just retired), highlighted the problem associated with the depletion of the court.

    “The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi has equally hinted that efforts are underway to fill the vacancies.

    “The depletion of the court does not augur well for the administration of justice,” Prof Akinseye-George said.

    Baiyeshea cautioned that the depletion was not good for the nation’s adjudicatory system.

    He added: “The truth is that even if the court has the full strength of 21 justices, it is still not enough for the tremendous workload in that court.

    “We don’t want our judges and Justices to die prematurely, because of the horrendous pressure of litigation.”

    CJN’s intervention

    However, when the number dropped to 10 with Justice Dattijo’s retirement last year, the CJN was compelled to speak up on the issue.

    He said: “With Justice Musa Dattijo leaving us today after the retirement of Hon. Justice Adamu Amina Augie a few weeks ago, we are now left with just 10 Justices on the Supreme Court bench; being the lowest we have ever had in the contemporary history of the court.

    “However, I can confidently assure all the litigant public that efforts are in top gear to get on board a sizable number of Justices to boost our rank and complement the tremendous effort we have been investing in the business of the court.”

    Enhancing efficiency

    Law experts have continued to suggest ways to ensure an efficient Supreme Court, ranging from a reduction in its workload to the possibility of having the court decentralised.

    Justices Ariwoola, Abdu Aboki and Augie have, at different times, before now, suggested the modification of existing laws to reduce the number of cases that make it to the Supreme Court.

    Justice Ariwoola restated this recently when he said: “I have made it clear, on different occasions, that it is not every dispute that must find its way to the court, and it is not every matter that must come up to the Supreme Court on appeal.

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    “Our laws have to be amended to make most appeals end at the Court of Appeal.”

    For Mike Ozekhome (SAN), more Justices are required, arguing that 21 Justices (for the Supreme Court) “are not sufficient for a country of about 217.6 million.”

    Ozekhome suggested the amendment to the Constitution to raise the number of Justices for the court to at least 30.

    He added that the retirement age should from from the current 70 years to 80, but with a proviso that whoever wants to disengage after 70 years can do so voluntarily.

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), once advocated for a decentralised Supreme Court.

    Ministry of Justice, Keyamo expressed grave concern over the enormity of the job Justices of the Supreme Court were being saddled with.

    Keyamo, who spoke before the Senate, said: ”If I am the Attorney General of the Federation, I have the idea that I call the 3 Ds that will be at the heart of judicial reforms: decongestion of the supreme court, decongestion of prisons and decongestion of cases listed in courts.

    “The Nigerian Supreme Court is the busiest in the world. My first task will be to unbundle the Supreme Court; it is the busiest in the world and that is not acceptable.

    “Some of the cases that go there are frivolous. This country is big enough to have six regional courts.”

    Efficient justice system a work in progress

    Many are also of the view that achieving an efficient justice delivery system is a work in progress, requiring continuous tinkering here and there.

    This position, no doubt, aligns with the suggestion by Justice Ibrahim Buba (retired judge of the Federal High Court) that judicial stakeholders can no longer stand aloof when issues of law and constitution amendments are being discussed.

    Speaking on the issue of accountability in the Judiciary, Justice Buba said lawyers and judicial officers should be involved in every process to amend the Constitution.

    The retired jurist noted that “the Judiciary is part and parcel of the society,” adding: “When the other arms of government are busy altering the constitution to get provisions on electoral matters, members of the legal profession should be interested in also amending the law – to repeal dead laws and laws that are not making the working of the Judiciary possible.

    “It is only in that way that the legal system in our jurisdiction would be respected and will be certain. “Anybody coming to do business with us (in Nigeria) should know the law in our jurisdiction and be certain of the result and how long it will take the case to finish.”

  • Aguegbodo: Supreme Court should be digitalised

    Aguegbodo: Supreme Court should be digitalised

    A former Ikeja Branch Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Bartholomew Aguegbodo, has called for the full digitalisation of the Supreme Court.

    He said manual processes must give way to digital solutions such as automation software, integrated systems and artificial intelligence to speed up the dispensation of justice.

    Aguegbodo hailed the fact that the Supreme Court now has the full complement of 21 justices.

    Between September 12, 2022, and July 11, 2023, exactly 1,271 cases were filed at the Supreme Court, comprising motions and appeals, but only 251 judgments were delivered within the period.

    Aguegbodo expects the number of judgments to rise this legal year with the addition of 11 more justices.

    The lawyer, whose tenure as NBA Ikeja Branch Chairman drew wide acclaim, especially over the Bar Centre, now aspires for the office of NBA First Vice President.

    He told reporters: “Without a doubt, having a full complement of 21 justices will reduce the workload. You cannot compare the output of 11 justices with 21.

    “This will also allow the court to have more panels sitting, which will go a long way in clearing the docket.

    “But, tackling delays is not only a question of not having more personnel. Delays are partly caused by infrastructural deficits.

    “If there is no regular power supply, and the court’s procedures are not upgraded and the processes digitalised, some of the problems will remain.

    “However, with the full complement of 21 justices, things are bound to move faster than they were in the past.”

    Aguegbodo called for a constitutional amendment to limit the cases that get to the Supreme Court, which he noted may also mean increasing the number of Court of Appeal divisions.

    “We will first have to amend the Constitution to determine what goes to the Supreme Court and what ends at the Court of Appeal,” he said.

    Aguegbodo, who volunteers to educate police divisions on rights, said there was no law prohibiting the grant of bail during weekends.

    He described as erroneous the fact some are denied bail on the basis that it is a weekend.

    He said bail can be granted any day, and that a wife can also secure bail for the husband.

    “There is no provision of the law that says that you cannot bail on weekends or that someone’s wife cannot bail her husband,” he said.

    The lawyer stressed the need for more enlightenment and called for improved police-lawyer relationships.

    “The men of the police need to be trained more on human rights laws if the current rate of human rights violations is to be curtailed in Nigeria,” he said.

    This is why he regularly visits the criminal division at Panti, Yaba to train policemen on human rights laws and their responsibilities.

    He urged lawyers not to interfere with the work of the police, such as telling their clients what to say during interrogation.

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    “The NBA in collaboration with civil society organisations must fashion out programmes that will enlighten the police periodically.

    “If a police officer does not understand what constitutes a violation of a right, he cannot protect it,” he said.

    On challenges facing the NBA, such as the dissolution of the executive committee of the Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL), Aguagbodro said the crisis could have been prevented.

    “When I came into office as NBA Ikeja Branch chairman, there were four factions. Our monthly meeting was like a war front. But, I had one thing in mind: the interest of the Bar. That is what comes first.

    “Once people can see that it is not sectional or personal interest that is an issue, but the interest of the Bar, you are likely going to have less friction.

    “There will be a need to rebrand the NBA, and that will be dependent on the understanding between the alter ego of the Bar and the executive. The head cannot function effectively without the hands and legs,” Aguegbodo said.

  • Firms partner on cost-effective, value-driven services

    Firms partner on cost-effective, value-driven services

    Two Nigerian firms have joined a global alliance to deliver cost-effective and value-driven services.

    A commercial law firm in Lagos, Gbenga Biobaku & Co., and an accounting firm, Phillips Akindele & Co., hosted the President & CEO of TAG Alliances, Mr. Richard Attisha and a member of the TAGLaw Advisory Board, Mr. Paul Tauber.

    TAG Alliances is a leading multi-disciplinary alliance of independent professional services firms covering over 110 countries, including TAGLaw for law firms, TIAG for accounting firms, and TAG-SP for strategic partners.

    A cocktail reception was held at Pitstop Restaurant in Victoria Island, Lagos, on February 15 attended by clients and friends of the host firms.

    Attisha and Tauber expressed gratitude for the hospitality and praised the host firms for providing efficient, cost-effective, and quality services to their clients.

    They highlighted the importance of collaboration between the firms in Nigeria and other countries within the TAG Alliances network, aiming to build stronger relationships and enhance client services.

    They also expressed excitement about future collaborations and meetings at TAG Alliances conferences.

    For more than 20 years, TAG Alliances members have leveraged the global reach and local expertise of top-rated, responsive, and prominent member firms to facilitate the cross-border goals and needs of their clients.

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    As members of an alliance dedicated to building quality relationships between independent firms with similar standards of excellence and integrity, TAG Alliances members can confidently refer their clients to like-minded firms they can trust.

    Its members are well-respected experts with a strong understanding of local business practices, laws, regulations, and culture and have deep-rooted relationships within their communities.

    These strengths give TAG Alliances members a true competitive advantage in providing a seamless and personalised experience for their clients across all industry and commercial sectors.

  • Court remands businessman over alleged  N782.3m forex scam

    Court remands businessman over alleged  N782.3m forex scam

    A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has remanded the Chief Executive Officer of Bethsaida Investment Partners Limited, Akintayo Ebenezer Ogunleye, at the Ikoyi Centre of Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS).

    Justice Yelim Bogoro remanded Ogunleye, after he pleaded not guilty to 21 counts charge bordering on alleged fraud made against him by the Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Lagos, last Friday.

    Ogunleye was arraigned before the court alongside his two companies, Bethsaida investment Partners Limited and Hartfield Investment Limited.

    The businessman and his two companies, according to the prosecutor, Mr. Justine Enang, were alleged to have defrauded their victims with the pretence of investing the money in Real Estate and Online Forex Investments.

    They were alleged to have committed the offences with between 2020 and 2023.

    Among those alleged to have been scammed and amount by the defendants include; Adetoro Afonja, N75 million; Mabel Bade Ojeikere, N14 million; Kanayo Christian Chigbo, N25 million; Grace Eleojo Awotunde, N62, 592, 600, 43 million; Olusola Kehinde Ogundiji, N107 million; Olumide Afolabi Fasugba, N35 million; Ade Emmanuel Moses Oluboade, N11 million; Adebanjo Esther Olayinka, N13.6 million; Adebanjo Kolawole, N2 million and Adebanjo Ruth Tolaniji, N120, 000.00.

    Others include; Victor Eyefa, N50 million; Eyefia Oluwatosin Oladimeji, N5 million; Ibukun Mayadenu, N30 million; Adefisan Olanrewaju, N15 million; Augusitne Ohikenena, N20 million; Adeola Adeshewa Cola, N20 million; Shopefoluwa Balogun, N40 million; Dada Olufunke Olufolarin, N15.7 million; Ajia Ogugua, N30 million and Adeola Owolabi, N7, 945 million.

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    The prosecutor, Mr. Enang, told the court that the defendants’ acts contravened sections 8(a) and 1(1)(a), and punishable under Section 1(3)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act No. 14 of 2006.

    The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    Consequently, the prosecutor urged the court to remand him in the NCoS’ custody till the determination of the charge.

    Counsel to the defendant prayed the court to admit his client to bail, saying that the bail application had been filed and same  served on the prosecutor.

    Responding, the prosecutor told the court that he was just served with the application while in court.

    Justice Bogoro after listening to counsel, adjourned the matter till March 12, for hearing of the bail application, while he ordered that the businessman be remanded in NCoS’ custody.