The Nation Newspaper

Category: Law

  • Role of law in promoting renewable energy investment, by Fashola

    Role of law in promoting renewable energy investment, by Fashola

    • Ex-minister lauds book

    Former Minister of Power, Works and Housing and Former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), has highlighted the role of law in promoting investment in renewable energy.

    The former Lagos State governor wrote the foreword to the book: Renewable Energy Law and Policy in Nigeria – A Crosscutting Perspective, written by a legal scholar Dr. Bitrus Joseph Bulama.

    Fashola describes the 12-chapter book as a timely and seminal contribution to the study of Nigeria’s renewable energy legal and policy framework.

    He notes that although international efforts to promote renewable energy date back to the Montreal Protocol of 1987, the sector only began to gain traction in Nigeria about a decade later.

    He traces the evolution of Nigeria’s power sector, referencing the coming into force of the 1999 Constitution and the enactment of the Electric Power Sector Reform Act in 2005, which ended the government’s monopoly and initiated deregulation. Reflecting on his assumption of office in November 2015 under President Muhammadu Buhari, Fashola explains that the Ministry of Power was in transition following the privatisation of electricity generation and distribution networks in 2013 by the Goodluck Jonathan administration.

    According to him, the ministry relinquished generation and distribution assets to private owners, along with over 5,000 staff, leaving it with fewer than 1,000 personnel and a mandate focused largely on policy formulation. From that point, the ministry and its leadership shifted from being power providers to policy enablers.

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    Fashola recalls that policies and programmes became the primary instruments available to improve energy supply. He cites the presentation of what he describes as Nigeria’s first published Energy Mix Document, committing the country to 30 per cent renewable energy within a projected 30-gigawatt capacity by 2030. This was followed by the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy in 2015, the Mini-Grid Regulations in 2016, and the Building Energy Efficiency Code in 2017. He explains that this background informed his decision to accept Dr. Bulama’s invitation to write the foreword to the book.

    According to Fashola, the book offers a comprehensive account of Nigeria’s renewable energy sector, beginning with a historical overview dating back to 1896, when the first power station was built in Lagos with an installed capacity of 60 kilowatts. He highlights Chapter Four for its detailed examination of the legal, policy, and institutional frameworks governing the renewable energy sector in Nigeria.

    Fashola identifies Chapter Five as the core of the book, noting its discussion of challenges confronting renewable energy development in the country. Drawing from his experience supervising the sector, he states that he shares many of the author’s views on these challenges, some of which were addressed through the Power Sector Recovery Programme developed during his tenure.

    The foreword also references the establishment of public institutions such as the Rural Electrification Agency, Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc, the Transmission Company of Nigeria, the Energy Commission of Nigeria, and the National Council on Climate Change as evidence of government political will. Fashola further mentions a contemporaneous budgetary appropriation for solar panel installation at the Presidency in 2025 as another demonstration of the government’s commitment to renewable energy leadership.

    In his assessment, Fashola suggests that extensive but undocumented investments in renewable energy by households and businesses may mean that renewables already contribute more than 30 per cent of Nigeria’s national energy consumption. He notes that the book addresses the role of law in promoting investment in renewable energy in Chapter Six, and examines the relationship between law, development, and access to electricity in Chapter Seven.

    Commending Dr. Bulama’s scholarly approach, Fashola states that the author successfully presents complex industry concepts in clear and accessible language. He describes the book as a practical resource for policymakers, legal professionals, energy practitioners, researchers, opinion leaders, and environmental advocates interested in the interaction between law, policy, and energy in Nigeria.

    The over 900-page book is published by Bar and Bench Publishers, Abuja. It is positioned as a comprehensive reference for academics, researchers, policymakers, legal practitioners, regulatory agencies, energy developers, investors, students, and others seeking to navigate Nigeria’s renewable energy regulatory landscape. Fashola concludes by recommending the book to readers seeking to understand the emerging field of renewable energy law in Nigeria. It will be presented to the public on February 11, 2026.

    Dr. Bulama is a highly accomplished legal practitioner, researcher, author, and policy analyst with a distinguished career spanning over two decades. He holds a Ph.D. in Law with a strong bias for Energy and Natural Resources Law.

    His master’s degree is in Petroleum Law and policy from the prestigious Centre for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law and Policy, University of Dundee, UK; while his first degree in law is from the University of Jos, Nigeria. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2003 after successfully completing the Nigerian Law School with a Second Class, Upper Division.

    He is currently an Assistant Professor of Law at the American University Nigeria, Yola. A dedicated advocate for environmental and climate justice, he is the convener, Initiative for Climate Action and Advocacy, a not-for-profit organization that advocates for environmental and climate justice.

    Dr. B. J. Bulama is a highly accomplished individual with a strong background in law, energy, and environmental advocacy. His expertise and experience make him a valuable asset in his field.

  • Tort law affects the everyday lives, says Olanipekun

    Tort law affects the everyday lives, says Olanipekun

    Tort law affects the everyday lives of Nigerians in ways often overlooked, a former Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), has said.

    He spoke at the presentation of a new legal treatise widely described by scholars and practitioners as a timely and significant contribution to Nigerian jurisprudence.

    The book: “Contemporary Law of Tort in Nigeria,” is written by Uche Val Obi (SAN).

    It was unveiled at a well-attended ceremony in Lagos that drew leading lights of the legal profession.

    Olanipekun, who chaired the event, described the publication as “a remarkable contribution to the very heart of legal practice.”

    He said: “Tort law shapes how society allocates responsibility and remedies harm.

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    “By producing a modern, deeply researched text, Obi has provided the courts and practitioners with a reliable compass for navigating contemporary challenges.”

    Prof. Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), who reviewed the work, underscored its academic depth and practical relevance to modern legal practice.

    He praised Obi’s scholarship, describing the text as “a masterful blend of doctrine and practicality.”

    He noted that the work goes beyond orthodox tort principles to interrogate emerging and evolving areas of liability.

    Ajogwu said: “This is the kind of scholarship that strengthens jurisprudence.

    “It speaks not only to where the law has been, but to where litigation in Nigeria is headed.”

    Obi expressed gratitude for the turnout and stated that the book was the culmination of more than three decades of legal practice and scholarship.

    He explained that the motivation for the work was a desire to reinforce the foundations of Nigerian civil justice while responding to global and technological shifts influencing tort law.

    “I felt compelled to write a text that reflects our local realities while engaging with global developments,” Obi said.

    “My hope is that it will serve as a dependable companion to students, scholars, and practitioners for years to come.”

    The SANi, who is also the author of the widely cited Class Actions in Nigeria, stressed that tort law remains one of the most dynamic areas of litigation.

    He said the book examines core doctrines such as negligence, nuisance, and vicarious liability, while also engaging newer issues arising from social and technological change.

    Obi said: “Society is evolving, technology is advancing, and the law must evolve with it. “This work attempts to capture that evolution.”

    Many of the distinguished audience of judges, senior advocates, academics, and law students highlighted the book’s depth, clarity, and relevance at a time when civil liability litigation is becoming increasingly complex.

  • New federal DPP Oyedepo pledges evidence-driven prosecutions, independence

    New federal DPP Oyedepo pledges evidence-driven prosecutions, independence

    The newly appointed Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF), Oyedepo Iseoluwa Rotimi (SAN), has pledged to anchor prosecutions strictly on evidence, the rule of law and the public interest, while strengthening professionalism and independence within Nigeria’s public prosecution system.

    According to him, his appointment comes at a critical period for Nigeria’s criminal justice system, requiring renewed commitment, integrity and reform-minded leadership.

    Rotimi said in a statement: “This appointment is a solemn call to service.

    “I am firmly committed to strengthening public prosecution in Nigeria to meet our present national challenges and the demands of the future.”

    He outlined his core priorities to include prosecutorial independence, professionalism, efficiency and strict adherence to constitutional provisions and the rule of law, stressing that the credibility of the justice system largely depends on the integrity, fairness and transparency of prosecutorial decisions.

    Rotimi assured Nigerians that prosecutorial discretion under his leadership would not be influenced by political pressure or other extraneous considerations.

    He said: “Prosecutorial decisions under my leadership will be guided solely by law, evidence, and the public interest, anchored on fairness, diligence, and integrity.”

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    He further expressed optimism about collaboration with key stakeholders, emphasising that effective public prosecution requires constructive engagement across institutions within and outside government.

    “I look forward to constructive engagement and cooperation as we work together to build a credible, formidable, and future-ready public prosecution system for our nation,” Rotimi said.

    He expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), describing the opportunity to serve as a solemn national responsibility rather than a personal achievement.

    “I am deeply grateful for the overwhelming goodwill, prayers, and congratulatory messages following my appointment as Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation,” he said, noting that the support he has received has been deeply humbling.

    “I receive this trust with humility and a full appreciation of the responsibility it entails,” he stated.

    The Senior Advocate of Nigeria also acknowledged the role of mentors, colleagues at the Bar and on the Bench, law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, friends and family, whose encouragement, he said, had been instrumental to his professional growth and development.

  • Nigerian Law School gets first female DG

    Nigerian Law School gets first female DG

    • Odusote’s appointment takes effect Jan 10

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayo Odusote as the Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, marking a historic first for the institution.

    A statement yesterday in Abuja by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the appointment, which takes effect from January 10, is for a four-year term.

    Odusote, 54, is currently the Deputy Director-General and Head of the Lagos Campus of the Law School.

    With her elevation, she becomes the first woman to lead the institution since its establishment in 1962.

    She will take over from Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma, whose tenure expires on January 9, after eight years of service.

    The statement said President Tinubu had “approved the appointment of Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayo Odusote as the director-general of the Nigerian Law School,” adding that her emergence “will mark a historic milestone for the institution”.

    Odusote obtained her Bachelor of Laws degree from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1988.

    She also earned a Master of Laws degree from the same university, specialising in company and commercial law, before proceeding to the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom (UK), where she obtained a PhD in Law.

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    Her research interests span public law and the administration of justice.

    She joined the Nigerian Law School in 2001 as a lecturer and has since risen through the ranks, serving in key roles, including Head of the Academic Department, Director of Academics, and Head of Campus.

    She also spent a short period as a visiting scholar at Nottingham Trent University in the UK.

    Over the years, Odusote has published extensively in reputable local and international law journals and presented papers at numerous legal education conferences.

    She has also served on committees of the Council of Legal Education and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

    As Director-General, she will be responsible for the Law School’s overall academic leadership, administrative management, and strategic direction across its campuses.

    The statement noted that the new DG will also serve as the primary liaison between the institution, the Council of Legal Education, the Body of Benchers, and the Nigerian Bar Association.

  • Legal fireworks, battle lines, big reforms: What awaits the judiciary in 2026

    Legal fireworks, battle lines, big reforms: What awaits the judiciary in 2026

    Landmark trials, appeals, constitutional battles, NBA election, and digital transformation are set to define the judiciary in 2026. Deputy News Editor JOSEPH JIBUEZE, Assistant Editor ERIC IKHILAE, ADEBISI ONANUGA, ANNE AGBI and UDEH ONYEBUCHI preview a potentially action-packed year for the Bar and Bench.

    As the judiciary steps into 2026, it does so on the back of one of its busiest and most consequential years in recent memory.

    Last year witnessed seismic rulings on presidential emergency powers, death sentences overturned and reinstated, landmark corruption trials, and institutional reforms that signalled a justice system under intense public scrutiny.

    In 2026, the focus will shift from verdicts already delivered to appeals, no-case rulings, constitutional interpretations, and high-stakes criminal trials that will test judicial independence, prosecutorial diligence, and the endurance of due process.

    From terrorism convictions and political defamation claims to multi-billion-naira corruption cases, the courts will again sit at the heart of national debate.

    Below is a preview of the major cases and events expected to shape Nigeria’s judiciary in 2026

    The tint permit case

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), via its Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL), filed a public interest lawsuit challenging the Police tinted glass permit policy as unconstitutional.

    The policy requires annual permits to be obtained via a portal (possap.gov.ng) for a fee paid into a private account.

    The NBA contends that the policy violates rights to dignity, privacy, movement, and property under the 1999 Constitution, lacks a statutory basis beyond a 1991 military decree, and raises transparency issues due to funds not entering the Federation Account.

    The High Court of Delta State, Orerokpe Judicial Division, on December 17 granted an interim injunction restraining the IGP and the Police from implementing and enforcing the policy from January 2.

    The order followed a motion ex parte filed by Mr. Israel Joe and argued by a legal team led by Kunle Edun (SAN).

    Owners of vehicles with tints, especially factory-fitted, will be keen to see how the pending cases are determined.

    Malami

    Immediate-past Attorney-General of the Federal and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), will face a 16-count charge of money laundering this year.

    He is charged along with his son, Abdulaziz, and an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, Hajia Bashir Asabe.

    In the charge, the first in three series, Malami was alleged to have laundered about N9billion to buy choice houses in Abuja, Kebbi, Kano and others.

    The ex-AGF is to account for how he came about 30 houses, valued at N212.8billion.

    EFCC said they were mostly acquired during his eight years in office.

    Nnamdi Kanu

    Although the decade-long trial of Nnamdi Kanu formally ended on November 20, 2025, with his conviction on all seven counts, the legal battle is far from over.

    In 2026, attention will shift decisively to the appeal process, which could redefine how terrorism-related offences are prosecuted and reviewed in Nigeria.

    Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), was sentenced to life imprisonment on five terrorism-related counts, 20 years for belonging to a proscribed organisation, and five years for unlawfully importing a radio transmitter linked to Radio Biafra. He is currently serving his sentence in Sokoto State.

    The appeal, expected to be filed early in 2026, will likely raise constitutional questions around extra-territorial arrest, fair hearing, prolonged detention, and trial delays.

    Given the political sensitivity of the case and its regional implications, the Court of Appeal’s handling will be closely watched.

    Prof. Cyril Ndifon

    The conviction of suspended University of Calabar law professor Cyril Ndifon in November 2025 marked a watershed moment in the prosecution of sexual harassment within Nigerian academia. In 2026, the case will test whether such convictions can withstand appellate scrutiny.

    Ndifon was convicted on two counts and sentenced to two and five years respectively, to run concurrently, while his co-defendant, Sunny Anyanwu, was discharged and acquitted.

    The case has already altered conversations around power, consent, and institutional responsibility in universities.

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    An appeal is expected to challenge the evaluation of evidence, witness credibility, and interpretation of harassment statutes.

    Whatever the outcome, the appellate decision will either reinforce or weaken emerging jurisprudence on sexual misconduct.

    Maryam Sanda

    The Supreme Court’s December 12, 2025, decision overriding President Bola Tinubu’s pardon of Maryam Sanda has already become one of Nigeria’s most controversial judicial pronouncements. In 2026, its ripple effects will continue.

    Although the apex court affirmed the death sentence imposed by the FCT High Court and upheld by the Court of Appeal, legal scholars expect fresh constitutional debates, including possible applications for review or international human rights interventions.

    The case has reignited debate over whether death sentences should remain enforceable in modern Nigeria.

    Godwin Emefiele

    Former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele enters 2026 facing perhaps the most complex legal battle of any public official. He is standing trial on three separate charges before three judges of the FCT High Court.

    The allegations range from unlawful acquisition of a 753-unit housing estate, abuse of office, to irregularities in the naira redesign policy and multiple counts of fraud and conspiracy.

    With no-case submissions already rejected in some matters, 2026 will likely determine whether Emefiele is convicted or acquitted, and how Nigeria prosecutes financial regulators.

    Emefiele is also on trial before Justice Rahman Oshodi of an Ikeja Special Offences Court over alleged fraud and abuse of office to the tune of $4.5 billion.

    His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, faces a three-count charge relating to unlawful acceptance of gifts.

    Chris Ngige

    Former Labour Minister Chris Ngige begins 2026 as an accused person standing trial on an eight-count EFCC charge involving alleged acceptance of gifts worth N2.2 billion during his supervision of NSITF.

    Justice Mariam Hassan has already ordered the prosecution to open its case.

    The prosecution is expected to open its case on January 28.

    Saleh Mamman

    The trial of former Power Minister Saleh Mamman has reached a decisive stage.

    With his no-case submission rejected in December 2025, Mamman is expected to open his defence in 2026.

    He faces a 12-count charge over the alleged diversion of N33.8 billion meant for the Mambilla and Zungeru power projects.

    Resumption of trial and opening of defence are billed for February 23.

    Yahaya Bello

    Former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello is simultaneously facing an N80.2 billion charge at the Federal High Court and a N110.4 billion charge at the FCT High Court.

    Both trials will continue in January, making Bello one of the most legally exposed former governors in recent history.

    Stella Oduah

    Former Aviation Minister Stella Oduah and her ex-aide Gloria Odita will formally face trial in January 2026 over alleged misappropriation of N5 billion.

    Prosecution is expected to open its case on January 12.

    Owo church attack

    The trial of five men accused of the June 5, 2022, Owo church massacre resumes on January 13.

    With over 40 worshippers killed, the case represents one of Nigeria’s deadliest terrorism prosecutions.

    GHL vs First Bank

    One commercial dispute that will continue in 2026 is the General Hydrocarbon vs First Bank case.

    The dispute centres on a 2021 Subrogation Agreement for OML 120 oil field development.

    GHL claimed FBN breached its obligations by failing to provide absolute funding of around $718 million, causing losses from delays and sabotaged alternatives, while FBN argued its obligations were conditional per banking regulations.

    The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) joined the fray by acquiring an Eligible Bank Asset (EBA) from First Bank linked to GHL’s financing obligations under their 2021 Subrogation Agreement.

    GHL denies any direct debt to AMCON or First Bank, asserting that no non-performing loans exist and that AMCON’s partial payment for the asset was incomplete, prompting FBN to offer refunds.

    In November 2025, AMCON sought to freeze GHL’s accounts across 34 institutions via a Mareva injunction and appointed a receiver/manager (Oluseyi Akinwunmi) to enforce alleged debts, despite GHL’s claims of court violations.

    GHL sued AMCON, First Bank, and others for contempt, securing interim orders in September 2025 barring asset actions over the $718 million claim; a contempt hearing was set for late November.

    On December 12, 2025, the Federal High Court upheld GHL’s objection, striking out AMCON’s receivership enforcement and reversing prior permissions amid ongoing OML 120 arbitration fallout.

    Legal representation issues stalled further contempt proceedings, with a SAN barred from GHL’s side against AMCON.

    The case will certainly rumble on in 2026.

    Ex-AMCON MD Ahmed Kuru

    Another case that will continue this year is one involving former AMCON Managing Director Ahmed Kuru over alleged N76billion, $31.5billion.

    Kuru is standing trial alongside Kamilu Alaba Omokide, Captain Roy Ilegbodu, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, and Super Bravo Limited before Justice Mojisola Dada of an Ikeja Special Offences Court.

    The defendants are facing a six-count charge bordering on conspiracy, stealing, and abuse of office.

    Pretty Mike

    Socialite and nightclub owner, Mike Nwalie, popularly known as Pretty Mike, was arraigned at the Federal High Court in Lagos alongside a club supervisor, Joachim Hillary, over alleged drug-related offences.

    The defendants were brought before Justice Lewis-Allagoa by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, illegal possession of drugs, and permitting the use of club premises for drug activities.

    The charges stemmed from an NDLEA operation at Proxy Lagos Night Club in Victoria Island in October 2025, during which officers allegedly recovered 200 grams of Cannabis Sativa and 177 cylinders of Nitrous Oxide, weighing over 364 kilograms.

    Other issues that will shape the judiciary

    NBA election

    NBA election will be held this year to choose who takes over from Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN) and his executives.

    It is now the turn of the Southwest.

    Among the contenders are Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro (SAN) and Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya (SAN).

    Akinboro is backed by the Egbe Amofin Oodua (Southwest Lawyers’ Forum).

    Mrs Badejo-Okusanya is a prominent female contender in a competitive field.

    Other aspirants include the highly respected Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe (SAN).

    While Akinboro appears frontrunner amid power bloc support, the possibility of an upset through the voting power of younger group of lawyers always exists, as recent electoral outcomes show.

    AI and legal tech adoption

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly entering legal practice, offering automated research, predictive analytics, document review and case management efficiencies.

    However, it also raises challenges around accuracy, ethical use, and professional competence.

    AI outputs can “hallucinate” inaccurate information, and the profession must decide how to regulate and integrate these tools responsibly this year.

    Court digitisation

    Courts are pushing for e-filing, virtual hearings, electronic cause lists, and integrated case management to reduce delays and improve transparency.

    Investments in infrastructure and secure digital facilities remain priorities this year.

    Restoring confidence

    Leaders, including the presidency, have emphasised restoring public trust in the judiciary as essential for legitimacy.

    Concerns about delays, integrity, and perceived partiality continue to undermine confidence. Something needs to change in 2026.

    Judicial reforms

    Calls for structural reform (e.g., transparent appointments, disciplined conduct, reduced political interference) will continue to shape discussions in 2026.

    Pressure will grow for merit-based judicial appointments/promotions and stronger accountability mechanisms from activists like Prof Chidi Odinkalu and groups like the Justice Reform Project Ltd/GTE.

    Tackling delays

    Courts still grapple with significant case backlogs, unpredictable sittings, and frequent adjournments, all factors that prolong litigation and erode faith in the system. Addressing delays will remain in the front burner.

    Professionalism

    Calls from the Bench and Bar stress the need for higher ethical standards, combating frivolous litigation practices, and discouraging behaviours that demean the profession. All eyes will be on the decision-makers to walk the talk.

    Curriculum overhaul

    Senior jurists have advocated revamping legal education to ensure graduates are better equipped for modern practice, potentially positioning law as a postgraduate subject to improve maturity and competence.

    Emphasis on continuous professional development, especially in technology, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and emerging practice areas like data protection and tech law, will grow.

    Court facilities

    Underfunded and poorly equipped court infrastructure continues to hamper efficiency.

    Judges and lawyers often work without modern tools, which directly contributes to delays.

    Sustained focus by the government on digital courts, case-management systems, and broader judicial funding may be prominent in 2026 reforms.

    ADR growth

    There’s rising recognition of ADR methods (mediation, arbitration, online dispute resolution) as tools to lighten court dockets and offer faster, consensual dispute resolution options.

    ADR proficiency may become a key competency for legal practitioners, reshaping litigation norms.

    Cross-border legal services

    As trade and digital transactions rise, Nigerian lawyers will need competencies in cross-border legal practice and alignment with global best practices.

    This year may present more opportunities.

  • Court seals Lekki property pending suit determination

    Court seals Lekki property pending suit determination

    Justice  Olukayode Musa of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja has ordered the sealing of a disputed waterfront property located within the Lekki Peninsula Scheme area of Lagos State.

    The order is pending the determination of a  suit arising from a commercial land transaction.

    The order followed a motion ex-parte in suit FCT/HC/4636/2025 filed by Henry Orabuchi, seeking judicial intervention over the property ownership  disagreements.

    The first to sixth respondents include the Police, Inspector General of Police; Head, IGP Monitoring Unit, ACP Magaji K. Mohammed; SP Abigail Patrick, Emecheta Elvis Eze and the Lagos Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Lagos.

    Justice Musa, while ruling on the application by Orabuchi through his legal counsel, Ebere Nwanya, ordered parties to maintain the status quo as at November 17, 2025 when the action commenced.

    Justice Musa granted an order of interim injunction restraining first to fourth respondents, either by themselves or through any of police commands, formations, units agents, operatives or officers under its command from inviting, arresting, detaining, harassing, intimidating or howsoever dealing adversely with the applicant in connection with the subject matter of the suit pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

    The court also ordered the first and second respondents to take over the site to avoid any damage to the properties and place caveats on all registering authorities to stay all action until final determination of the main suit.

    The court issued an interim order directing the 2nd respondents, through AIG Zone 2 and 6th respondents to seal and secure the entire property known and described as Plot No. A, Block 12, Lekki Peninsula Scheme, Lagos State.

    It also  reclaimed land at the back of the property measuring 3,000 square metres forthwith and to immediately halt all works, activities, actions, or steps on the said property while ensuring that no person, authority, or entity howsoever described is permitted access to or entry upon the property pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit before the court.

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    The court issued an order joining Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development as 7th respondent in the suit with an order that the ministry shall abide by all orders made therein.

    The  applicant, Orabuchi stated that he was introduced in 2022 to a property owner (name withheld) by an intermediary who presented him as the owner of a waterfront property in Lekki, Lagos.

     He was informed that part of the land was waterlogged and required sand-filling, after which portions would be sold.

    Mr. Orabuchi said he subsequently entered into an agreement to acquire 3,000 square metres of the reclaimed land for an agreed consideration.

    He also disclosed that additional funds were paid at various stages of the transaction, based on representations made during the course of the agreement.

    Documents presented to him, he said, included a Lagos State Certificate of Occupancy covering the adjoining land, with assurances that necessary consents for the reclaimed portion would be derived from the same root of title.

    The agreement also reportedly provided that access to the waterfront portion would be through the adjoining developed property.

    Mr. Orabuchi stated that following the sand-filling exercise, issues arose concerning regulatory assessments and the extent of land recognised by relevant authorities.

    He further claimed that disagreements followed over documentation and the perfection of title to the portion he contracted to purchase.

    Mr. Orabuchi also referenced regulatory actions by Lagos State agencies during assessments conducted on the property, which he said raised additional concerns regarding compliance with applicable planning and building regulations.

    These developments, he maintained, prompted him to seek formal clarification and legal protection.

    Court documents indicate that Mr. Orabuchi petitioned the Nigeria Police over the transaction, after which the matter was referred for investigation.

    While those investigations were ongoing, he alleged that subsequent actions led him to seek relief before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    The order of the court was made to preserve the subject matter of the dispute and to prevent actions that could prejudice ongoing proceedings.

  • Awujale: Lawyer canvases competence-driven traditional leadership

    Awujale: Lawyer canvases competence-driven traditional leadership

    • ‘Knowledge of arbitration, economic coordination critical’

    A lawyer and a prince of Ijebu land, Olawale Adeyemi-Oriola, has stressed the importance of knowledge-driven traditional leadership.

     He said the next Awujale must combine respect for age-old customs with the skills required to navigate contemporary governance, economic development, and cultural preservation.

    Prince Oriola said the Awujale of the present era must be more than a ceremonial figure.

    He emphasised that the role increasingly requires arbitration, strategic counsel, economic coordination, and policy engagement with government and global partners.

    “Ijebu tradition has always valued wisdom, restraint, and service. But today’s Awujale must also understand how institutions work, how to attract development, manage relationships, and protect the long-term interests of the people,” he told reporters.

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    Prince Oriola, a member of the Olufadi/Obanlefa branch of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, described himself as a son of Ijebu whose life has been shaped by deep ancestral roots, rigorous education, and high-trust professional responsibility.

    “I hold an Executive LL.M. in Securities and Financial Law from Georgetown University Law Center and a Juris Doctor from Hofstra University School of Law, where I earned the New York State Bar Association Corporate Counsel Section’s Kenneth G. Standard Award. Earlier, I studied Economics, Finance, and English Literature at the City University of New York (Lehman College) as a Starr Foundation Full Tuition Scholar. My formative educational experiences also include graduating from Ijebu-Ode Grammar School.”

    He is a Senior Associate at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, where he advises leading global financial institutions like JP Morgan, Blackstone, BlackRock, and HPS on governance, compliance, and risk management. He also previously served as Senior Counsel at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in Washington, D.C., contributing to major national regulations, including fiduciary duty rules, investor protection reforms, and ESG disclosure initiatives, work for which he received multiple Chairman’s Awards.

    According to him, these experiences directly mirror the traditional functions of kingship in Ijebuland.

    “The Awujale must listen carefully, balance competing interests, uphold fairness, and safeguard communal assets. These are the same principles that guide my professional life”, he said.

    Prince Oriola added that he is a partner at The Adomi Group, which is involved in advisory, fintech facilitation, and development initiatives across Africa, including discussions around hospitality and cultural-tourism investments in the Ijebu area.

    He emphasized that his vision for Ijebuland includes economic growth, full electrification, youth empowerment, achieving Ijebu statehood, and global promotion of Ijebu culture, while respecting all religious beliefs and fully supporting Isese traditions.

    Prince Oriola added that his aspiration is not rooted in noise or self-promotion, but in long preparation and readiness to serve.

    “Ijebu has always chosen leaders carefully. My commitment is to serve with competence, humility, and loyalty to our traditions, so that the Awujale stool remains a symbol of dignity, unity, and progress.”

  • Lagos, Fed Govt strengthen premarital counselling to curb domestic violence

    Lagos, Fed Govt strengthen premarital counselling to curb domestic violence

    • By Zainab Olufemi and Ajiboye Faith

    The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, has stepped up efforts to curb domestic violence by strengthening premarital counselling for intending couples across the state.

    The initiative was driven by findings from the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), which said that a significant number of survivors of matrimonial abuse had prior knowledge of their partners’ abusive tendencies before marriage but still proceeded with the union.

    DSVA said about 70 per cent of those who reported cases of domestic violence admitted being aware of red flags before marriage, a development that highlighted the need for more proactive and sustainable preventive measures.

    To address this, the agency organised a capacity-building training for marriage registrars who interface directly with intending couples at marriage registries, aimed at equipping them with the skills required for effective premarital counselling.

    Speaking at the training, Executive Director of the Centre for Women’s Health and Information (CERWIN), Mrs. Atinuke Odunkoya, said the programme was designed to empower registrars to engage couples in meaningful conversations before marriage.

    She said premarital counselling provides a critical opportunity to address red flags, promote healthy boundaries and encourage honest discussions among intending couples.

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    Odunkoya noted that many marital crises stem from unresolved differences in values, backgrounds and expectations, stressing the need for a change in society’s perception of marriage.

    “A broken relationship is always better than a broken marriage. Marriages should contribute positively to society and promote values that discourage dysfunction and violence,” she said.

    Also speaking, President of the Institute of Marriage Education and Counselling of Nigeria, Mr. Emmanuel Oladele, commended the Lagos State Government for recognising the strategic role of marriage registrars in mitigating domestic violence.

    He said empowering registrars with the right knowledge would enhance their statutory duties and positively impact society.

    Oladele described the training as timely, particularly at a period when many intending couples lack adequate understanding of marriage, urging participants to apply the knowledge gained and continue to build their capacity.

    “What you don’t have, you cannot give,” he said.

    A participant at the training, Assistant Chief Executive Officer, Ojukoro Local Government, Mr. Ademola Awoyemi, described the programme as an eye-opener.

    He said the training exposed participants to deeper insights into counselling and the realities of marriage, noting that many people enter marriage for different reasons without fully understanding its demands.

    Awoyemi added that marriage requires readiness to learn, adapt and grow, advising intending couples to embrace communication as a key tool for preventing domestic violence.

    He called on the government to sustain enlightenment programmes that would help couples gain proper knowledge of marriage and foster healthier relationships.

  • SAN appeals ruling declining  contempt proceedings against LCC trustees

    SAN appeals ruling declining  contempt proceedings against LCC trustees

    A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Babatunde Fashanu, has appealed a ruling of the Federal High Court in Lagos delivered October 30, 2025  by Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa  Lewis.

    The first respondent in the appeal is the Registered Trustees of the Lagos Country Club (LCC).

    The second to 12th respondents were sued as Caretaker Committee of the LCC, Ikeja pursuant to consent judgment in suit FHC/L/CS/321/2024 while 15 others were listed as respondents.

    In the appeal, Fashanu complained over the whole of the decision of the lower court on October 30, 2025.

    In his application, the SAN is contending that the learned judge erred in law in his decision to to hear the Notice of Preliminary Objection to the court’s jurisdiction to hear the substantive suit first before contempt proceedings for breach of the court’s order of status quo.

    The senior lawyer contended that it was common ground that there was pending before the court contempt proceedings against some defendants/respondents for allegedly breaching the court’s orders of status quo in the suit.

    Fashanu contended that the contempt matter is sui generis and ought to be taken on its own first before hearing the challenge to the court’s jurisdiction with respect to the substantive suit .

    He argued that the court has a duty to ensure that its orders are obeyed and preserve the dignity of the court.

    He submitted the decision is wrong in law in that the contempt proceedings are extrinsic to the substantive suit and ought to be heard before the challenge to the court’s jurisdiction.

    The learned silk argued that it is common ground in the suit that the appellant had contempt proceedings pending for disobedience to court orders of status quo.

    According to him, the defendants did not deny that certain actions were taken after the orders of status-quo were made, including conduct of elections.

    He argued that contempt proceedings are criminal in nature and should first be dealt with by being given paramountcy over jurisdictional matters.

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    He said it was incumbent on the lower court to first hear the contempt proceedings to preserve the dignity of the court.

    He submitted that the judge misdirected himself in law in deciding to hear objections to the court’s jurisdiction before the appellant’s applications to set aside pre-emptive actions of some defendants.

    The appellant urged the upper court to allow the appeal and set aside the decision of the lower court dated October 30, 2025 to hear the challenge of the court’s jurisdiction first before contempt proceedings.

    He urged the upper court to order that the appellant’s contempt proceedings and application to set aside actions in breach of the court’s orders of status quo be heard first before the challenge to the court’s jurisdiction.

    He urged the upper court to make orders sought in the court below that:

    “Upon the contempt proceedings being form 49 dated July 7, 2025 committing the respondents thereto to prison for contempt of court; Granting the appellant’s Motion on Notice dated 20/03/2025 and Granting the appellant’s Motion on Notice dated 13/06/2025.

    Fashanu also prayed the court to remit the case back to the lower court for hearing on the merits by another judge other than the judge that gave the decision appealed against, Hon. Justice A. Lewis-Allagoa.

    Fashanu and a businessman, Dr Edwards Ademosu had filed seperate applications before the lower court seeking orders  of committal to prison against the  Registered Trustees and Caretaker Committee of the  LCC for disobedience of court orders.

    Fashanu had on July 7, 2025 had filed Form 49 Order IX, Rule 13, Judgments (Enforcement  Rules Cap, S6  Laws Of The Federation of Nigeria, 2004. It was titled, “Notice To Show Cause Why Order of Attachment Should Not Be Made”  against the defendants, including Registered Trustees of the LCC (1st  to 12th defendants) and  13th, 14th, 17th and 19th defendants.

    The plaintiff in Form 49 asked  the defendants to show cause why they should not be “committed to prison for having neglected to obey the order of this court made on the 22nd day of October, 2024” which requires parties” to maintain status quo.”

    Ademosu in his suit filed July 9, 2025 had asked same defendants to show cause why they should not be committed to prison for having neglected to  obey the order of the court made on October 22, 2024 thus: “That parties are hereby required to maintain status quo.”

    “Take notice that you are hereby required to attend the court on the first mentioned day to show cause why an order for your  committal should not be made.”

    In a 14-paragraph affidavit deposed to in support of the motion, Julius Abifarin deposed that despite the service of the court processes by the bailiff  on the defendants, the 1st defendant has continued the very activities sought to be restrained in the plaintiff’ s Motion on Notice of October 3, 2024 including reconstitution of the Caretaker Committee set-up under the Consent Judgment of July 4, 2024 in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/321/24 sought to be set-aside.

     Abifarin stated that on March 20, /2025, a Motion on Notice was filed herein by the plaintiff  to set-aside the said reconstitution and inauguration of the Caretaker Committee of the Club.

    The deponent that by notice a dated 12/04/2025, some members of the Lagos Country Club appointed by the 1st defendant. slated an Emergency General Meeting (EGM) for 28/04/2025 for “Presentation and ratification of the Caretaker Committees review of the report Disciplinary Committee’s Report as directed in the Consent Judgment. ”

  • NGO seeks action against killing of security personnel

    NGO seeks action against killing of security personnel

    A non-governmental organisation, the Societal Concerns Organisation, has called for stronger collaboration among all security forces to curb the rising killings of security personnel.

    The call was made at the second edition of the Campaign Against the Killing of Security Personnel, held in Abuja, where stakeholders emphasised the need for improved welfare, enhanced intelligence sharing, and closer collaboration between security agencies and host communities to stem increasing attacks on operatives nationwide.

    President of the NGO, Oluwayomi Oluwapelumi, said the campaign was initiated in response to the growing and disturbing attacks on security personnel, describing such assaults as a direct threat to national peace, unity, and stability.

    She explained that the second edition of the campaign was designed to deepen engagement, expand public sensitisation, and translate advocacy into policy-focused dialogue, following earlier activities in Lagos and Ogun states.

    According to her, the Abuja finale was aimed at elevating discussions to the national policy level, consolidating lessons from previous engagements, and addressing the root causes of hostility, misinformation, and mistrust toward security operatives.

    Oluwapelumi stressed that the protection of security personnel must be treated as a national responsibility rather than a sectoral issue.

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    Representing the  Police, SP Kuti noted that the protection of personnel goes beyond arms and equipment to include welfare, morale, responsible media engagement, and a supportive legal framework.

    He warned that attacks on security officers undermine the rule of law and public confidence, adding that communities remain the first line of defence against crime and violent extremism.

    Also speaking, the Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commander Attah John Onoja, described attacks on security operatives as assaults on the Nigerian state, linking insecurity to illegal mining, banditry, terrorism, and organised crime.

    He called for stronger inter-agency collaboration, community cooperation, and strategic communication to counter misinformation and hostility toward security forces.

    Onoja urged youths to see security operatives as partners rather than enemies and called on traditional and community leaders to use their influence to promote peaceful coexistence. He also appealed to officers across the services to remain professional and guided by the rule of law, noting that public trust remains a critical weapon in the fight against insecurity.

    The event featured a high-level national security dialogue, stakeholder engagements on civil–security relations, and the recognition of institutions and individuals committed to peacebuilding and national unity. Organisers said outcomes of the discussions would be widely disseminated through strategic media engagements.