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Category: Law

  • Leveraging FOIA to promote rights, tackle corruption

    Leveraging FOIA to promote rights, tackle corruption

    How the Freedom of Information Act can be deployed as a tool for tackling corruption and demanding accountability was among the talking points at a town hall meeting in Anambra State, reports EMMA ELEKWA

    Freedom has been defined as the power or right to act, speak or think freely as one wants.

    It can also be referred to as the state of not being imprisoned or enslaved, or a special privilege or right of access.

    Individuals, families, societies and nations, from time immemorial, have always desired freedom of all forms, shapes and sizes.

    For Nigeria as a nation, October 1, 1960, would remain an indelible date in her history, being the day she gained independence from British colonial rule as well as the day the country was granted the Freedom Charter by Princess Alexandra of Kent, representing Queen Elizabeth II.

    Significantly, that day marked the beginning of her journey as a sovereign state and a historic milestone in the struggle for freedom, autonomy and sovereignty.

    While the freedom of Nigeria as a country is not debatable, the extent to which its citizens enjoy their freedom of speech, association, religion etc as contained in the nation’s constitution is a matter of burning public discourse.

    Right to information, a fundamental human right as enshrined in section 39 (1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution as amended, states that “every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinion and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference.”

    Sadly, access to information remains one of the most difficult challenges facing average Nigerians, hence the struggle that led to the enactment of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which was led since 1993 by Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) such as Media Rights Agenda (MRA), Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ).

    After several years of agitation, the FOI bill was assented to on May 12, 2011, by former President Goodluck Jonathan, to make public records and information freely available to the citizens.

    FOIA grants individuals the right to access information held by government agencies and institutions, promoting transparency and accountability by ensuring public access to records and documents, subject to certain exceptions.

    Unfortunately, more than 13 years after, most states are yet to domesticate.

    In states where the law is enacted, the awareness rate among citizens remains abysmally low, while those who know about it do not take advantage of it.

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    Those who eventually access it achieve such success, but not without painful and frustrating experiences.

    Executive Director, Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA), Faith Nwadishi, identified lack of information, awareness and most times deliberate acts of officials to deny citizens access to information when requested as some of the reasons the Act has not offered the anticipated relief to citizens in terms of access to information.

    Speaking recently in Awka Anambra State at a Stakeholders Town Hall Meeting on the Application of Freedom of Information, FOI Act, organised by the Centre for Transparency Advocacy in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Justice, Nwadishi noted that women, youth and persons with disabilities (PWDs) are worse victims of the poor enforcement of the law.

    She said: “This meeting has provided us with the opportunity to explore the essential role of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in promoting the rights of women, youth, People Living with Disabilities, and indeed other Nigerians who strive for equity and inclusion in the fight against corruption. 

    “This is one of the CTA’s activities focusing on promoting transparency and accountability in governance, highlighting the efforts of the Strengthening Accountability and Governance in Nigeria Initiative (SAGNI) in the Federal Capital Territory, Anambra State, and Edo State through FOI.

    “The Strengthening Accountability and Governance in Nigeria Initiative (SAGNI) project is supported by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC) and funded by the European Union through International IDEA.”

    Acknowledging the devastating threat of corruption to the collective existence of Nigerians as well as democratic governance, economic development and social justice, Nwadishi further noted that it undermines the rule of law, thus perpetuating inequality and disproportionately affecting women and marginalised communities.

    She said: “Nevertheless, our gathering is not to lament and see all of us here, including the women, the youth and PWDs, as victims of corruption but as amazons, resilient and powerful change agents.

    “All we need are information, access to resources, and opportunities to be able to demonstrate the transformative role that promotes accountability, transparency and good governance.

    “We are glad with the enactment of The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 2011 which should have become a critical tool in the fight against corruption, but due to lack of information, lack of awareness and most times deliberate act of officials to deny citizens access to information when it is requested does not appear to be playing this role as it ought to be by, providing citizens with the right to access information.

    “FOIA enables citizens to hold governments and institutions accountable for their actions.

    “It allows us to track budgets, monitor programmes, and expose corruption where and when it occurs.

    “As stated earlier, despite the potential of FOIA, women, vulnerable groups and citizens often face significant barriers in accessing information that will aid personal and collective development in a space characterised by bureaucracy.

    “This justifies our coming together to share experiences, build knowledge, and develop strategies for leveraging FOIA to promote citizens’ rights, equity, and inclusion.”

    While appealing to the Anambra government to domesticate the FOIA, Nwadishi urged the participants to make conscious efforts to share the knowledge they received from others through awareness campaigns and citizen engagement in various communities and groups.

    Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, urged Nigerians to use the FOIA to demand accountability from their elected and appointed representatives in federal and state governments.

    Fagbemi, represented by Garba Sunday, a lawyer in the FoI Department of the Federal Ministry of Justice, said that the Tinubu Administration is no longer ready to do anything in secrecy.

    “The Government of Nigeria is no longer interested in doing government business in secrecy, and through the FOIA, it has given the citizens of this great country the power to access government information and records without being asked the reason for the usage.

    “The Act also provides for people with disability to access government records. Access can be made orally to public institutions to access information.

    “Aside from reactive response to FOIA requests, public institutions are expected to proactively disclose their activities in the public space.

    “To ensure easy implementation of the Act, public institutions must ensure that they keep their records in such a way that it will be easy to access by any requester.

    “Despite the fact that the Act guaranteed the right to access to information, there are exemptions that you must comply with before releasing certain government information and records, and also, there is certain information that the Act does not apply to.”

    While commending Anambra State Government for keeping its people abreast of its activities, he implored Nigerians to avail themselves of the FOIA instrument to hold the government officials accountable, stressing: “It’s your right to know and participate in the governance of this great country.”

    Keynote Speaker, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Anambra State, Prof Sylvia Ifemeje, represented by Ngozi Iwouno, a lawyer, said the law passed in 2011 empowered citizenry to access records, documents and information from both government and private organisations, enabling participation in governance to ensure transparency.

    “After application, the applicant must wait for seven working days to get the requested information.

    “Failure to do so, further action as stipulated in the act, including legal action, can be taken,” she said.

    Chairman, Anambra State Disability Rights Commission (ANSDRC), Dr Chukwuka Ezewuzie, emphasised that persons with special needs have been vanguards of disadvantaged individuals who lacked access to proper information.

    He called on the State Ministry of Justice to provide a committed legal recourse for PWDs in accordance with the Anambra State Disability Rights Law 2018, as well as the provision of pro-bono lawyers to defend and protect the rights of PWDs and ensure they were empowered to seek redress in court if their rights were infringed upon.

    “This meeting is timely as it further enlightened my members on their rights as Nigerian citizens. We now know we can enquire about things that affect us.

    “We can’t wait to sensitise our people to recognise this and pursue them vigorously,” he stressed.

    Vice President, Southeast Zone, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Emma Ifesinachi, noted the vital role of the media in information dissemination and as such needed access to information.

    He said the media should be appreciated for packaging the Act, urging participants to maximise the documents for their benefit and society at large.

  • Ex-Ambassador denied repatriation allowance nine years after recall despite court order

    Ex-Ambassador denied repatriation allowance nine years after recall despite court order

    • Adejuwon writes President, minister

    A former Ambassador to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), David Adejuwon, is yet to be paid repatriation allowance nine years after he was recalled back to the country from Geneva, Switzerland.

    The non-payment of the repatriation allowance to Amb. Adejuwon by the Federal Ministry of Industry Trade and Investment was however in defiance of the order of Justice Ayodele Obaseki-Osaghae of the  National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) made on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.

    Amb. Adejuwon’s petitions to  President Bola Tinubu, dated 29th April, 2024 and 28th November, 2024, sent through the office of the  Chief of Staff to the President was titled: Re: Judgment On The Suit No. NICN/Abj/301/2017 between Amb, David Ademola Adejuwon and Federal Ministry Of Industry, Trade And Investment — A Reminder.

    In his petition, dated 29th April, 2024,  to President Tinubu, Amb. Adejuwon stated that former President Dr, Goodluck  Ebele Jonathan approved his appointment as Nigeria’s ambassador to WTO.

    Attached to the petition was the judgment of Justice  Ayodele Obaseki-Osaghae of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Abuja Judicial Division that was delivered on 12th  March, 2024, duly served to the Ministry of Industry for appropriate action.

     He prayed the President for an executive directive that the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment should comply with the orders of the court without any further delay.

     He also urged the President to constitute a high level administrative panel comprising representatives of The Presidency, HOCSF; MFA, Finance, Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Federal Ministry of Justice to look at the very serious and weighty issues/allegations contained in his statements of claims and the defence and counterclaims by the Ministry filed in the NICN, Abuja and make appropriate recommendations in line with the Renewed Hope Mantra of the current administration and in the best interest of the public. 

    He explained that he instituted the suit against the Ministry of Industry in October 2017, after it refused to do the needful; consequent upon which the matter went into a full trial.

    Amb. Adejuwon petitioned the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Ms. Jumoke Oduwole  and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) who, it was learnt, advised the Ministry of Industry to pay the judgment debt .

    But rather than heed the advice of the Minister of Justice, the Ministry of Industry filed an appeal which has not been heard or allocated a date for hearing.

    In a letter dated February 28, 2025, the Ministry of Industry wrote Amb.Adejuwon of its intention not to pursue the appeal again and opted for an out-of-court settlement in a letter titled: “Re: Judgement Debt on Suit No NICN/ABJ/301/2017 between Amb. David Ademola Adejuwon and Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

    The letter signed by Director, Legal Services, Foluso Akinlonu, for the Honourable Minister, stated in part: “..the ministry is favourably disposed to resolving the dispute between you and the Ministry amicably instead of pursuing the Appeal earlier lodged with the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division in respect of this matter.

    “Following from the above, the Ministry is Taking necessary steps towards sourcing for funds to pay or liquidate the judgment debt, as soon as possible…”

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    Omega Reigns Chamber, Legal firm representing  Amb. Adejuwon, in their response dated April 2, 2025, signed by Peter Kayode Abodunrin, stated in part: “We are writing to follow up on your letter dated 18th February, 2025 with reference No; Inv, 32/1, in response to which we wrote  on behalf of our client, AmbassadorDavid Ademola Adejuwon, on 20th February, 2025.

    “As per our records and our client’s instructions, we have  yet to receive the judgment debt payment or any update regarding the status of the disbursement as indicated in yuour aforementioned letter.

    “In light of this, we kindly request an update on the payment schedule and would appreciate confirmation of when the payment is expected to be made”

    In his letter to the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Ms. Oduwole, concerning judgment debt arising from the ministry’s failure to pay his repatriation allowance back to Nigeria and other entitlements, Amb Adejuwon stated that it had been nine years now that he has  been battling with the Ministry that he worked for 35 years, to pay his outstanding allowance and repatriation entitlement.

    “My personal effects are locked up inside my official residence in Geneva for the past nine years running.

    “The embarrassment and trauma my family has been subjected to is better imagined than being experienced. It has resulted to impaired health for me and my spouse. I just returned with my wife recently from Canada where we went for medical treatment with the help of some family members and friends.

    “It’s going to three months now that I got a letter from your Ministry, signed by the Director, Legal Services, informing me of the Ministry’s decision to resolve the appeal it filed against the judgment of the National Industrial Court amicably and that efforts were being made to pay the judgment debt as soon as possible.

    “I look forward to an early settlement of the judgment debt without any further delay, please,” he stated

    The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) had on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, ordered the Federal Ministry of Industry Trade and Investment to pay repatriation allowance to Amb. Adejuwon to enable him move his family and personal effect from World Trade Organisation Geneva, Switzerland back to Nigeria.

    Justice Ayodele Obaseki-Osaghae gave the order while delivering judgment in suit number NICN/ABJ/301/2017 filed by Amb.  Adejuwon.

    The court noted that the claimant filed his complaints against the defendant on October 23, 2017 together with accompanying processes.

    The court also noted that the claimant, by a further amended statement of facts filed before the court, sought for an order directing the defendant to renew his diplomatic passport and that of his wife which expired in December 2018, and to obtain one year Schengen multiple entry Visas on the renewed passports to enable him travel to Geneva to hand over to new ambassador and to bring back his family and personal effects after the payment of the outstanding allowance and repatriation allowance.

    Justice Obaseki-Osaghae granted all other reliefs sought by the claimant in his statement of facts and amended statement of facts filed before the court.

    The court dismissed the counter-claims of the defendant as frivolous and lacking in merit having noted that as at the day of judgment of the court, “the claimant’s repatriation allowance remains unpaid; that there is no evidence of any estimate for renovation, or loss of any rental revenue by the defendant.”

    Justice Obaseki-Osaghae awarded N400,000 in favour of the claimant on the counter-claim by the defendant.

    The judge said all payments ordered by the court must be paid to the claimant within 30 days of the judgment stressing, “thereafter, any sum outstanding will attract interest at the rate of 15 per cent per annum.”

    Justice Obaseki-Osaghae, citing several authorities, held that the claimant was treated differently and disadvantaged on the same set of facts and circumstances by the Federal Ministry of Industry Trade and Investment, stressing that the tenure policy of the Federal Government denied by the defendant is common knowledge for which this court has taken judicial notice of in several decisions.

    The court held that the claimant’s evidence in the entirety of the case was not controverted, emphasising that by the defendant’s failure to cross-examine the claimant on his claims, the defendant’s pleadings in paragraphs 11 (L) (i), (ii), (iii), (iv), (v), and (vi), and paragraph 25 (a), (b), (c), (d), and (e) of the statement on oath of DW, the defendant has admitted the claims of the claimant.

    Citing several decided cases, the judge held that the law is settled, that parties are bound by their pleadings and facts pleaded by one party and admitted by another needs no further proof.

    The court held that the claimant is therefore entitled to the orders hereinafter made having succeeded in his claims and ordered the defendant to pay the claimant his statutory repatriation entitlements.

    The court also held that the  defendant has not shown this court any reason why the claimant should be treated differently from his predecessor on the same set of facts and circumstances, and why different executive or administrative actions have been applied. “This is wrong, and ought not to be.”

    The trial judge held that on the whole, the claimant’s case succeeds.

    The court berated the defendant over the treatment the claimant has been subjected to by the defendant.

    The judge noted: “the claimant served and represented Nigeria as Ambassador/Resident Representative to the World Trade Organisation Geneva, Switzerland. He ought not to be treated in this degrading manner having served his country meritoriously. No Nigerian Ambassador/Envoy should be subjected to this type of embarrassment.

    “The claimant gave the required notice to the defendant and so the process of recall ought to have commenced timeously and payment of repatriation allowances to enable the claimant return home with his family, personal effects and prevent hardship. There can be no excuse since September 2016 for this situation that is clearly an embarrassment to Nigeria, particularly in view of its high profile leadership role in the World Trade Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.”

    “The defendant Ministry as part of the Executive Arm of Government must abide by the Foreign Service Rules; and there must be equality in the treatment of Ambassadors to the World Trade Organization. The Defendant Ministry can do better than this for the image of Nigeria”, the judge said.

    The claimant, in his pleadings stated that at the material time to this suit, he was the Nigerian Ambassador to the World Trade Organization and other Trade Related International Organizations in Geneva, Switzerland.

    He averred that by the approval of Mr. President on 29 June 2013 conveyed through a letter from the Federal Ministry of Industry. Trade and Investment dated 24 July 2013 he was appointed as the Nigerian new Ambassador to the World Trade Organization in Geneva Switzerland, and he assumed duty in Geneva on 3rd March 2014 after his predecessor Amb Yonuy Fredrick Agah who was retired from the Federal Civil Service in January 2010 vacated the office.

  • Pros and cons of public participation in judges appointment

    Pros and cons of public participation in judges appointment

    Judiciary stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions about the move by the National Judicial Council (NJC) to allow public participation in the appointment of judges. While some hail the initiative, others sound a note of caution, warning that it was susceptible to abuse. Assistant Editor ERIC IKHILAE examines the pros and cons

    In a novel development, the National Judicial Council (NJC) has invited the public to comment on the suitability or otherwise of candidates shortlisted for appointment into various judicial offices.

    It is in apparent response to calls for judicial appointments to be more transparent rather than being shrouded in secrecy.

    Many had aired their views about the need to reform the judicial appointment process.

    The call for reform was informed by the belief in the need for change given concerns raised by stakeholders about the effectiveness or otherwise of the existing process, which many believe sacrifices competence for patronage.

    Those who called for a change have consistently argued that the existing system appeared to have been captured by a certain class, whose appointment style now stifles competition.

    The concerns

    An incident that confirmed public discomfort with the existing recruitment process was when a group, the Open Bar Initiative (OBI), rose against a list of nominees released by the NJC about four years ago.

    The OBI was one of many that questioned the quality of the nominees and the process of their nomination.

    OBI, in its petition, urged then President Muhammadu Buhari not to approve the list of 33 candidates recommended to him by the NJC for appointment to the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    OBI claimed that no fewer than 17 of the lawyers recommended for appointment were unqualified.

    It added that the NJC’s recommendation was flawed and should not be allowed to stand because “the selection process violated the NJC’s laid-down rules and procedures and was fraught with judicial insider dealing, which risks turning the judiciary into an instrument for advancing narrow personal interests and patronage.”

    Given the controversy generated, President Buhari, in July 2020, accepted only 11 of the 33 recommended for the High Court of the FCT by the NJC,  who were eventually appointed.

    Some months later, another round of controversy was ignited by NJC’s recommendations for justices of the Court of Appeal.

    Immediately a list of nominees was released in 2021, groups and individuals began raising varied issues.

    A group, the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), expressed concern that the majority of the nominees were Muslims from the North, which did not reflect the fact that Nigeria is multi-ethnic and multi-cultural.

    SMBLF noted that 13 of the 20 nominated judges were from the North, including three Sharia judges, and wondered whether there was no Christian judge at all from the North and the Middle Belt, who could be considered for elevation to the appellate court.

    Another group, the Global Integrity Crusade Network (GCIN), raised a petition, which it addressed to the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), demanding, among others, the cancellation of the appointment process.

    A third group, the Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF), led by Prof. Uzodinma Nwala, argued that the choice of nominees for the Court of Appeal was meant to deny the Southeast its quota based on the principles of Federal Character, as enshrined in the constitution.

    Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), while contributing to a webinar by a law firm in 2021, added his voice to the call for a reform of the judges appointment process.

    He said: “We must take a second look at the appointment of judges. The merit-based system is necessary.

    “We need to do mandatory tests for them. We need to look at how our judges are selected.

    “It is not enough to rise through the ranks in the judiciary, with judges going to the Supreme Court from the Appeal Court.

    “We must be able to bring in practising lawyers and academics to become judges. We owe it to ourselves to change the rules.

    “Change is necessary, and reform of our judicial process should be urgent.”

    Another Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Wole Olanipekun, who participated in the event, echoed a similar position when he expressed discomfort about the current practice whereby judges of the appellate court were being appointed based on promotion.

    Olanipekun said: “I  reckon that judges can be appointed from academia and the Bar and not just based on promotion from one court to another.”

    NJC’s intervention

    In what is seen as a major step at reforming the process, the NJC, led by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, recently announced an initiative aimed at ensuring a more transparent appointment system for judicial officers.

    At its 108th meeting held between April 29th and 30thh and chaired by Justice Kekere-Ekun, the NJC, among others, resolved that “henceforth, the names of candidates being considered for appointment as judicial officers to superior courts of records will be published for information and comments by the public.”

    Why the initiative?

    The NJC said the primary objective of the initiative was to solicit comments from the public where there is objection to the integrity, reputation and/or competence of the candidates by opening the process to public participation and scrutiny.

    Reactions

    The initiative has attracted varied rearions since it was made public last month.

    Many have hailed it, arguing that it would bolster public confidence in the system and enhance transparency. 

    But others advocate caution, warning that it could be subjected to abuse.

    Senior lawyers, including Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN), Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), Joseph Nwobike (SAN), Musibau Adetumbi (SAN), Kayode Ajulo (SAN) and Onyekachi Ubani (SAN) are of the view that the initiative deserves commendation.

    Akinseye-George, who is the president of the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS), described it as a “quiet revolution” in the nation’s judiciary.

    He said the decision by the NJC to publish the names of candidates being considered for appointment to superior courts of record was not only revolutionary, but praiseworthy.

    Akinseye-George added: “This groundbreaking decision opens up the appointment process to public scrutiny and invites civic participation, thereby enhancing transparency and reinforcing the legitimacy of judicial appointments.

    “This approach to judicial appointments will significantly improve the quality of judicial appointments.”

    While also hailing other decisions taken at the last NJC meeting, Akinseye-George said the bold and transparent actions of the council “are a testament to the visionary leadership and integrity of Hon. Justice Kekere-Ekun.

    “At a time when public confidence in institutions is under strain, the Chief Justice has steered the judiciary with courage, impartiality, and fidelity to constitutional norms.

    “Her tenure continues to inspire hope that the judiciary can indeed be a bulwark against impunity, a guardian of justice, and a model of institutional discipline,” he said.

    Akinseye-George added: “The NJC’s recent actions serve as a beacon of reform and integrity, and the Nigerian judiciary—under the guidance of Hon. Justice Kekere-Ekun—deserves commendation for its principled and courageous decisions.

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    “The path may be arduous, but with such leadership, the restoration and preservation of public confidence in the rule of law is not only possible—it is inevitable.”

    Kehinde added a note of caution.

    He said: “I must wholeheartedly commend the initiative of My Lord, the Honourable CJN, for the innovation.

    “I have always been in the school of thought that the minimum scrutiny and process of appointment for judges that will sit in judgment over others should be the standard for elevation of counsel to the inner bar so that the judicial system can be availed the best.

    “The judicial landscape is filled with men of character, analytical minds, willingness to work and do justice.

    “The truth is that the Bar and the general public at large have both positive and negative testimonies about members of the profession.

    “However, the invitation must be used responsibly and not be available to blackmailing and name-calling by those who claim to be armchair ombudsman of the judicial system who will never see anything good in others.

    “At any rate, I trust the sagacity of His Lordship, the CJN, to be able to see beyond the veil. May God Almighty heal our land,” Kehinde said.

    Nwobike believes the NJC considered some compelling factors before reaching the decision to accommodate public commentaries in the appointment process.

    He added: “As you are aware, there have been calls from several quarters for the review of the process for the appointment to the higher Bench in Nigeria.

    “I believe that the new decision to invite the input of the public may be one of the adopted measures to improve the quality and integrity of persons being considered for judicial appointments.

    “We should all, therefore, support the efforts of the National Judicial Council in this regard,” Nwobike said.

    To Adetumbi, it is a good decision. He added that the NJC and, more particularly, the CJN should be commended for the innovation.

    Adetumbi tasked the Bar, “more particularly the local branches of the states concerned, to come out with the required comments and evidence(s) against those they know are not appointable. So, also, are other members of the public.

    “Let each and every one of them be honest and sincere with their comments. Certainly, there is room for improvement, but we can achieve something with what we have now,” Adetumbi said.

    Ajulo, who is the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, expressed strong commendation for the CJN over the decision to invite public input in the selection of candidates for appointment as judges of the superior courts of record.

    Describing the decision as “remarkable” and “progressive,” Ajulo said: “This significant step demonstrates a bold commitment to public engagement.”

    The Ondo AG added that “by encouraging comments on the integrity, reputation, and competence of judicial nominees, the NJC is establishing a system that prioritises accountability and fosters community involvement, while ensuring a selection process that is both rigorous and reflective of the highest values of our legal system.”

    Ajulo noted that such measures will undoubtedly strengthen public trust in the judiciary and ensure the elevation of only individuals with proven integrity to the bench.

    He added: “This initiative signals refreshing leadership and a renewed commitment to excellence within our judiciary.”

    Ajulo urged Nigerians to actively participate in the process.

    He cautioned members of the public “to use this opportunity responsibly to contribute to a fair, credible, and trusted judicial system.”

    Ubani described it as a significant move that may reshape the future of judicial appointments in Nigeria.

    “This new openness in the recruitment process deserves commendation and, if sustained and properly managed, may herald a new era of transparency, public trust, and judicial accountability,” he said.

    Ubani added: “This commendable initiative aligns with global best practices. In developed democracies, judicial appointments are not cloaked in secrecy.

    “Instead, they involve wide-ranging consultations, including public hearings, where interested citizens and stakeholders contribute insights or raise concerns about the integrity, competence, and past records of potential judicial officers.

    “This is because the judiciary is not just a branch of government; it is the final arbiter of justice and custodian of the rule of law.

    “Judges must, therefore, not only be competent but be seen by the public to be above board in character and impartiality.”

    To Ubani, by allowing the public to contribute to the vetting of judges, the NJC has shown its willingness to deepen democratic participation and rebuild public confidence in the Bench.

    “This is especially crucial in a country like Nigeria, where the judiciary has faced intense criticism, some justified, others frivolous.

    “Giving citizens a voice in the selection of judges ensures that appointees are not only well-qualified in law but also known to be men and women of integrity by the communities they serve.”

    Ubani recommends safeguards

    The former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Second Vice President highlighted safeguards that must be put in place.

    Ubani added: “For this laudable process to achieve its desired objective, certain safeguards must be put in place.

    “First, the process must be transparently conducted and brought to a logical conclusion.

    “Where public objections are raised against a nominee, the grounds should be properly investigated, and the outcome should be made public.

    “Where allegations are found to be baseless, the candidate’s name must be cleared and protected from reputational harm.

    “Equally, if the concerns are valid, the candidate must be disqualified, and the appointing authorities should be bold enough to uphold merit over sentiment.

    “Second, there must be accountability for those who abuse the process. The NJC rightly requires that any petition or objection be supported by a sworn affidavit. This is a wise step.

    “Those who deliberately peddle falsehoods or file frivolous petitions against judicial nominees must be held accountable through perjury charges.

    “The process of cleaning and strengthening the judiciary should not be hijacked by mischief-makers or used as a tool for vendettas.

    “Public participation must go hand-in-hand with responsibility.

    “The NJC’s decision to open up the judicial appointment process to public scrutiny is a progressive move that deserves widespread applause.

    “It shows a readiness to embrace transparency and to allow the people who are the ultimate beneficiaries of justice to have a say in who sits in judgment over them.

    “We believe that this will not be a one-off gesture. Let it evolve into a permanent feature of our judicial system, supported by fairness, transparency, and discipline.

    “The judiciary stands to gain, and so does the entire Nigerian state.

    In this instance, the people and the system are announced as the winners.”

  • Otudeko: Court adjourns for continuation of settlement

    Otudeko: Court adjourns for continuation of settlement

    A Federal High Court in Lagos, on Thursday, adjourned until June 11, for continuation of settlement talks, in a suit against Chairman of the Honeywell Group, Oba Otudeko and others.

    Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke adjourned the case for report of settlement, after the first defence counsel, Mr Bode Olanipekun (SAN), informed the court that parties were still negotiating settlement.

    Olanipekun told the court that settlement had not broken down but still on.

    Recall that at the last adjourned date of March 17, Chief Wole Olanipekun had informed the court that a meeting involving all counsel had been convened at the instance of the Attorney General.

    He had said that this was aimed at reaching a peaceful settlement of the case.

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    On her part, the prosecutor, Mrs Bilikisu Buhari, confirmed the position to the court, but added that the case be adjourned for report of settlement or arraignment.

    The court has now adjourned the case until June 11, for report of settlement or arraignment.

    EFCC had preferred a 13-count charge against Otudeko and a former Managing Director of First Bank Plc, Olabisi Onasanya. Also charged is a former board member of Honeywell, Soji Akintayo and a firm, Anchorage Leisure Ltd. The charge is marked FHC/L/20C/2025

    The case was earlier scheduled for arraignment on Jan. 20, but the defendants were absent on the grounds that the EFCC had not served them with any charge.

  • Law School DG dismisses allegations of withholding results

    Law School DG dismisses allegations of withholding results

    Director General of the Nigerian Law School, Professor Isa Chiroma, has dismissed the petition on withheld results initiated by hundreds of Law Graduates who staged peaceful protest at the entrance of the National Assembly complex, Abuja recently.

    Chiroma spoke Abuja during an investigative hearing into a motion bothering on the alleged withholding of Bar results and backlog of Students awaiting call to the Bar, at the instance of House Committee on Justice, chaired by Hon. Olumide Osoba.

    While noting that it is the statutory responsibility of the Body of Benchers to determine those who are qualified for Call to Bar, Chiroma argued that those who failed the examinations cannot be called to Bar.

    He said if any result was delayed it must be due to examination malpractice.

    He stressed that examination malpractices remain a grave offence for anyone caught during the examination period.

    He said CCTV cameras have been installed in various examination halls at the Law School in Abuja.

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    Chiroma presented some of the visual evidences of female students who wrote on her laps and sensitive parts of their bodies.

    While relaying the due process being followed by the Law School to ensure transparency, he said: “When somebody is apprehended in the examination hall, there’s a process, first and foremost, whether it’s called Copy or he came in with extraneous materials, or he came in with telephone, these are strict liability offence. When you are in the exam, the telephone, whether in use it or not is a strict liability offence.

    “So all these are the situation, and nobody has disputed this. When this is done, they come before a committee of management. This committee is responsible in determining whether this person is guilty or not. 

    “They are brought in, they are given opportunity to defend themselves. Most of them, what they say is that ‘its the work of devil, it will never repeat itself again’; ‘Forgive us, it was a mistake’; ‘I didn’t know this’. 

    “What I want to say clearly is that the Law School like every organized system, has its own calendar, and whatever we do in Law School is based on this calendar. 

    “At the beginning of every session we advertised for admissions. We have timing for our when admissions will end, our lectures, internship program, when students come out to do more trial examination, timetable for examination, when result is to be processed, when result is to be out in all these things, each body has its own role.

    “For example, when it comes to examination, when examinations are marked, it goes to Board of Examiners, and they pass the outcome of its findings to the Board of Studies and later to the Committee of Council, which also looks at the result.

    “What Council does is to either ratify or make certain decisions on these results. And in our system, once Council approved results that day that it is always out on our portal. That’s how this system works. So, the issue of withholding result does not even arise. This result comes out the day Council approves.

    “So when we saw that people were writing to National Assembly to say that they should intervene to ask us to release result that we withheld, there’s no reason withholding result. Any result withheld in Law School has to do for example, with examination malpractice.”

  • ECOWAS Court to member states: bring justice closer to people

    ECOWAS Court to member states: bring justice closer to people

    The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice yesterday launched its 2025 sensitisation outreach and external court sessions in Lagos with a call to member  states to bring justice out of courtrooms and into the heart of West African communities.

    President of the ECOWAS Court,  Justice Ricardo Claudio Monteiro Goncalves stated this in a keynote address delivered at the opening ceremony of External Court Session of ECOWAS Court of Justice held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

     Justice  Goncalves declared that justice must no longer be the “language of the privileged” or “a distant dream” but a birthright for every citizen — from the remotest village to the bustling urban centers.

    “Justice hidden is justice denied,” Justice Goncalves stated. “We are here not just as officers of the court, but as messengers of change. The time has come to restore hope, build bridges, and serve justice where it is most needed — at the grassroots.”

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    The event marks the start of a multi-day programme designed to raise awareness about the Court’s role, improve understanding of ECOWAS Community law, and engage directly with legal professionals, students, and citizens.

    The sensitisation initiative precedes the Court’s External Session scheduled to run from May 8 to 16.

    Justice Gonçalves highlighted a series of reforms that have modernised the Court’s operations, including the introduction of electronic filing, virtual hearings, and online access to judgments — measures aimed at enhancing transparency, reducing bureaucratic barriers, and connecting even the most disadvantaged citizens to the judicial process.

    He also issued direct appeals to stakeholders across the justice sector: urging law schools to integrate ECOWAS legal studies, encouraging lawyers to embrace pro bono work, and calling on judges to uphold judicial independence with integrity.

    Governments, he stressed, must cooperate by ratifying and implementing human rights treaties and enforcing court judgments in a timely manner.

    As West Africa grapples with complex challenges ranging from human rights enforcement to regional economic integration, he expressed  confidence that the outreach would demystify the negatives about ECOWAS Court and empower citizens with the tools to claim their rights under regional law.

    “May this be a new awakening, in which all institutions, all professions and all citizens walk together in the light of justice”, he said.

    Chief Justice of Nigeria,  Justice Kudirat  Kekere-Ekun, who chaired the ceremony, affirmed the critical role the ECOWAS Court plays in safeguarding rights and strengthening the rule of law across West Africa.

    She emphasized that the Court does not threaten national judiciaries but rather complements them in addressing cross-border challenges such as corruption, terrorism, and human rights violations.

    “No single national judiciary can effectively respond to these transnational issues,” she said.

    “The ECOWAS Court enhances consistency in the application of regional legal instruments and provides a reliable forum for resolving disputes beyond national jurisdictions.”

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, welcomed the ECOWAS delegation and praised the Court’s decision to host the outreach in Lagos.

    He described Lagos as the economic and cultural heartbeat of West Africa.

    He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to justice and regional integration, calling the Court’s presence a vital step toward making justice more visible and accessible.

    “This event reflects our collective resolve to strengthen institutions and bring justice closer to the people,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said.

    “Only through collaboration and a firm commitment to the rule of law can we ensure a peaceful, inclusive West Africa.”

    The sensitisation programme continues throughout the week, with public engagements, legal education activities, and the historic external court sessions aimed at fostering deeper ties between regional and national legal systems.

    The event drew participants from amongst high-ranking judges, legal practitioners, civil society leaders, students, and members of the diplomatic corps.

  • Council boss, monarch, others partner CRIVIFON on rights enforcement

    Council boss, monarch, others partner CRIVIFON on rights enforcement

    The Chairman, Sagamu Local Government, Afolabi Ogunlate; the Radanuwa of Idado, Sagamu, Oba Musiliu Adegbola Soile, Osinderumu 1, and some security agencies have pledged to collaborate with Crime Victims Foundation of Nigeria (CRIVIFON) on the enforcement of human rights.

    They spoke at the  first Human Rights Advocates Graduation ceremony of Sagamu, Ogun State unit of the organisation held at Advanced Breed Cosprhensive College hall, Sagamu.

    About 18 persons graduated in the Civilian graduation Course

    Executive Director and Chairperson of CRIVIFON, Mrs Gloria Egbuji, represented by her Deputy, Mr Titus Ofurum, said the essence of the Civilian Human Right training is to eradicate and create awareness amongst the civilian populace on human rights and rule of law.

    He said that this would ensure that there is an interface between the Police and the civilians so that rights knowledge can be passed and spread around all.

    Ofurum explained that the name of the group, CRIVIFOM is suggestive of their mission which is to support victims of crime and not the perpetrators.

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    He explained that the group decided to train people so that they know their rights  so that they would be in position to help others whose rights are violated and trampled upon.

    He reminded them that it was CRIVIFON that pushed for the law that made it compulsory for hospitals to treat gunshot and accident victims without police report.

    He explained that it is a criminal offence for hospitals to refuse to treat gun shot victims as such medical officers are liable to be imprisonment.

    “This is why we organise training workshops and invite officers of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and others for lectures and training to deepen human rights culture in the country.

    He said Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, human rights to every Nigerian.

    “I urge all those in position of authority to use their office to support the people and to avoid oppressing the people. I urge you to join hands with CRIVIFON to make the country a better place for all”, he said.

    Ogunlate who was represented by the Vice Chairman of the Sagamu Local Government Council, Isiaka Salami, lamented that enforcing the rights and knowledge of the rights of the people has been a problem in the society.

    He noted most times when police arrest someone, that person usually don’t know what to do next because  they lack knowledge of their rights and what they entail.

    Salami pledged the readiness of the council chairman to work with CRIVIFON and his decision to provide an office for the organisation within the council secretariat complex.

    Radanuwa of Idado, Sagamu,  Oba Soile, who was the royal father of the day, stated that there is a link between human rights and traditional institutions, stressing that culture must also have a place on rights issues.

    The monarch explained that there is a link between human right and traditional institutions adding, “we are involve in justice, arbitration, settlement of disputes in many ways.”

    He reminded members of the group that they should always consider culture in all that they do, advising, “if you want to settle dispute, you must also consider the culture of the people>”

    He assured them that the traditional institutions in the area would work with them and ensure that they succeed.

    NSCDC Divisional Officer, Sagamu Olorode Sulaiman disclosed that the service has now been given fiat by the Chief Judge, Ogun State Judiciary, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu to prosecute civil matters and human right infringement cases except criminal matters.

    He promised to partner with the group to enforce the right of the people.

    Superintendent Route Commander (SRC) Olufemi Olaore who represented Sagamu Unit Commander, stated that in Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), they do not take the rights of the people for granted.

     “It is your right to ask officers to explain to you what you have done”, he said while promising that the commission would collaborate with the group to achieve their goals.

    Commander Oyelola Opeyemi who represented the Sagamu Divisional Commander  of TRACE, while admitting  human right issues in traffic laws also promised collaboration with CRIVIFON to ensure respect for the rights of the people.

    The group National Coordinator, Mrs Beatrice Ojukwu in a remark, urged the new human rights advocates graduates to be bold, upright and not to be cunny but carry out their rights activities  according to the law.

  • Chieftaincy family urges governor to stop ‘monarch-elect’

    Chieftaincy family urges governor to stop ‘monarch-elect’

    The Eletu Odibo Chieftaincy Family of Lagos Island has urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to order Ismail Ajibade Nosiru Ayeni to stop parading himself as the Eletu Odibo-elect.

    The accredited representatives of the Eletu Odibo Chieftaincy family made the call in an April 24 letter following two earlier letters to the government.

    They include Chief Rashidi Onilere-Eletu, Alhaji Abdulrahmon Mogaji, Mr. Olayemi Agiri, Chief Fatai Adio Lawal and Mr. Murufudeen Lawal-Eletu Odibo.

    Through their lawyer, Mr A. R. Fatoki, they said: “There are a total of 14 branches that make up the Eletu Odibo chieftaincy family of Lagos Island.

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    “The practice in the family of electing any member to the enviable position of the Eletu Ocdibo is usually for all the accredited representatives to pick and raise the hand of the elected member after selection through the popular Ifa.

    “This is contrary to the sole anointing exercise put up by one single individual, i.e. Ologun-Ide of Lagos, who, though he belongs to one of the 14 branches, did not have the blessing of all other family members, including the Olori Ebi, to do what he has purportedly done.”

    Fatoki said his clients had on December 16, 2023, consulted with the Ifa oracle and picked Prince Ademijuwon Raimi Ajose.

    He said the exercise was done in the presence of all 14 branches. He urged the governor to intervene.

    The 14 branches of the ruling Eletu-Odibo family had initially petitioned Sanwo-Olu to reject Ayeni’s nomination.

    They referred to ongoing litigation in suit LD/4135LM/2022, wherein the petitioners are challenging the ancestry of Prince Ayen’s grandfather, Alhaji Rafiu Saka.

  • Wiseview marks 15th anniversary

    Wiseview marks 15th anniversary

    • ‘People thought we are NGO’

    A law firm, Wiseview Legal Consultancy, has celebrated its 15th anniversary in Lagos.

    The legal firm, established 2010 by retired Justice George Oguntade, JSC, held the  service to commemorate the day last Friday at its office, GAO’s Place, 124A, T.F. Kuboye Street, off Oniru new market Road, Lekki Phase 1, Oceanside, Lagos

    Deputy Managing Partner of the Law Firm, Gbenga Ajala, who shared the success story of Wiseview Legal Consultancy, told journalists that he was part of the success of the law legal consultancy firm.

    He said that not less than 50 lawyers have passed through the legal consultancy firm and are doing very well.

    He said:  “because of how the firm was founded, people joke and say that we are an NGO firm because our founder never really wanted to collect from anybody. He was always willing to give back to the society.”

    He said many staff and clients live off the founder of the law firm. According to him, whenever they want to reject a client and told the founder of the law firm the client has no money to pay foe lwgal servic, he would  tell them, “e lo ba won se” {go and do it for them}..

    That was what we had to deal with until 2020 when he got an appointment, he left the firm.

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    “So everybody that came back with the notion that, oh, they were going to get free services, they came and met different leaders that required that they pay and that motivated us for the services we were providing.”

    On his journey in the law firm, Ajala said:

    “I went through the ranks. It was  a core learning process from associate to senior associate to team leader before the firm eventually metamorphosed into a partnership and by God’s grace, I am one of the partners.

    “At every point in time from going through files, going to court, going to arbitrations in and outside the country with the founder, there was always a lesson to take at every occasion, either from how he resolves issues or how he treats people.”

    Ajala said there was always one thing to learn at every point in time.

    “They are numerous, many  of them from victories in favor of clients, from clients’ victories, from even personal growth.

    “It  was because of working in this firm that, I was able to get a lot of certifications as chartered arbitrator, a member of the institute of arbitrators. They are enormous and are countless”, he said.

    The Right Reverend Akinpelu Johnson of the Anglican Church, Lagos Mainland Diocese, thanked God for preserving the life of the founder of the firm, Justice George Oguntade who he said served the nation diligently for many years

    Rev, Johnson expressed confidence that those that have passed through the law form would not forget what the founder impacted on them whenever he told them, “e lo b a won se.”

    He thanked God for the vision given the founder to establish  the Law firm and to nurture it to success.

    He prayed for success and continued nourishment of the law firm.

    He also praise God that the founder was able to distinguish himself while on the bench of the Supreme Court of Nigeria while also giving glory to God for the vision to establish the firm and nurture it to success.

  • NUC officials risk jail over alleged contempt

    NUC officials risk jail over alleged contempt

    • ‘Commission yet to reinstate ex-staff member’

    Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof Abdullahi Ribadu, and four other top officials have been accused of contempt of court.

    They allegedly disobeyed a court order to reinstate a former staff member, Mr Kunle Rotimi, and provide him with all denied entitlements.

    The order, upheld by the Appeal Court on June 28, 2024, mandated NUC to comply immediately.

    However, NUC management failed to do so, leading to the contempt charges

    The other defendants are NUC Deputy Executive Secretary, Mr Chris Maiyaki; Director of Finance & Accounts, Mrs. Hauwa Amos; Director of Human Resources, Mrs Victoria Omoredion and the Deputy Director of Legal Services Mr. Pascal Eruoga.

    The lower court had on July 6, 2020, ordered NUC to reinstate Mr Rotimi and give him all his denied entitlements, comprising payments of accrued salaries, allowances, emoluments, bonuses, privileges and benefits, from March 1996 up to the date of the judgment.

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    Dissatisfied, the NUC appealed, but the Court of Appeal in Lagos dismissed the appeal in its entirety.

    The Appeal Court upheld the verdict of the trial court on June 28, 2024, and ordered NUC to comply immediately.

    Ten months later, NUC management had not complied with the court order.

    The cause of action arose in 1995/96 when NUC management offered Mr Rotimi full sponsorship approval for training.

    He claimed that because he refused the demand for gratification by some management officials to facilitate the release of funds for the Master’s degree course at the University of Ibadan, his approved course allowances and salaries were unlawfully and arbitrarily withheld.

    This, he said, compelled him to resign voluntarily in protest.

    He claimed NUC maliciously rejected the resignation and dismissed him without a fair hearing.

    He sued at the National Industrial Court in suit marked NICN/ LA/646/2018 and later NICN/LA/53m/2020.

    The court ordered the respondent to reinstate him and pay him his accrued entitlements.

    Dissatisfied, the respondents appealed and still lost, but refused to obey the judgment 10 months after.