The Nation Newspaper

Category: Law

BRIPAN, Federal High Court partner on business insolvency

The Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN) has partnered with the Federal High Court to streamline processes within the insolvency division and enhance the administration of business recovery in the country.

BRIPAN President, Mr Chimezie Ihekweazu, disclosed this in a communiqué made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Lagos.

NAN reports that BRIPAN is a professional body involved in business recovery and insolvency, promoting best practices and managing financially distressed individuals and businesses.

Ihekweazu, who is also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said the collaboration aims to simplify insolvency proceedings and processes.

The insolvency division refers to a section within a legal or financial institution that manages the legal processes associated with companies or individuals unable to repay their debts, potentially resulting in liquidation or restructuring.

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Ihekweazu stated that the partnership meeting was held with the Head of the newly established Insolvency Division, Mimidoo Abako Esq., and the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Lagos Division, Mr Godwin Long.

He described the initiative as a significant milestone in legal sector collaboration.

Ihekweazu stressed the importance of competent personnel with expertise in various insolvency options to ensure the effective operation of the division.

He proposed the establishment of a dedicated registry to monitor insolvency matters and facilitate close coordination with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

“This integration is expected to harmonise record-keeping between both bodies, prevent duplication of proceedings, and expedite hearings,” he said.

Ihekweazu also advocated for strong technological support and the decentralisation of the insolvency unit’s operations to ensure consistency across all divisions of the court.

Mr Amala Umeike, a BRIPAN team member and Chairman of the Joint Committee with the CAC for reviewing the Insolvency Regulations 2022, commended the initiative.

Umeike noted that the improved structures would not only streamline insolvency cases at the Federal High Court but also increase revenue generation for the institution.

The Vice President of BRIPAN, Mr Albert Folorunsho, called for the formation of a technical joint committee or consultancy group to oversee the phased implementation of the division.

Mr Godwin Long reaffirmed his team’s commitment and pledged unwavering support for the collaborative effort.

According to him, the meeting marked the beginning of a more efficient and coordinated approach to insolvency matters.

He assured that both BRIPAN and the Federal High Court remained committed to establishing a robust legal framework for the future.

April 8, 2025
Wanted: Stronger legal framework for protection of women

The 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) was held from March 10 to 21 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The conference attracted participation from over 120 national ministerial delegations, including Founder and Executive Director, Crime Victims Foundation of Nigeria (CRIVIFON) Mrs. Gloria Egbuji. She tells ADEBISI ONANUGA the significance of the event.

Can you give us a brief overview of the recent UN Women Conference, particularly in relation to the 4th World Conference on Women in 1995 and the adoption of the Declaration?

The recently concluded United Nations Women Conference (CSW69) was a landmark event in the continued global fight for women’s rights, gender equality, and social justice. This session coincided with the 30th anniversary of the 4th World Conference on Women, which was held in Beijing, China, in 1995—a historic event that led to the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

The Beijing Declaration remains one of the most comprehensive policy blueprints for advancing women’s rights globally. Over the years, it has guided governments, organisations, and activists in shaping policies that promote equal opportunities, economic empowerment, and protection from gender-based violence.

The 2025 UN Women Conference provided an opportunity to assess the progress made since the 1995 Beijing Declaration while addressing emerging challenges such as digital gender gaps, increasing violence against women, and economic inequalities.

What was the theme of this year’s conference, and what informed it?

The theme of this year’s conference was: “For ALL Women and GirlsRights, Equality, Empowerment.”

This theme was chosen to reflect the need for inclusive empowerment, ensuring that every woman—regardless of social class, disability status, ethnicity, or economic background—benefits from gender-focused policies and initiatives.

It also recognised the global backlash against women’s rights in many countries, where hard-won progress is now being threatened by political instability, economic downturns, and cultural resistance. The theme served as a call to strengthen laws, policies, and actions that protect women’s rights at all levels.

What were the key issues that informed the theme?

Several critical issues shaped the theme of the conference:

• Gender-Based Violence and Women’s Safety:

Across the world, including Nigeria, cases of rape, domestic violence, sexual harassment, and human trafficking remain high. The conference stressed the need for stronger legal frameworks and enforcement to protect women from violence.

• Economic Disparities and Financial Inclusion for Women:

Women, particularly in Africa, face barriers in accessing financial services, business funding, and employment opportunities. The discussions highlighted the importance of policies that support women’s financial independence and access to loans, grants, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

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• Digital Gender Divide:

Many women, especially in rural areas, lack access to digital education, internet connectivity, and tech-driven job opportunities. The conference called for increased investment in digital literacy programmes to close this gap.

• Political Representation and Leadership:

Women’s participation in governance and decision-making remains low in many African countries. The need to increase female representation in leadership positions was a central issue.

Was Nigeria well represented and actively participated at the conference?

Yes, Nigeria was actively represented at the conference. Several Nigerian delegates participated, including government officials, civil society organisations, gender activists, and policy makers.

Notably, Nigeria’s delegation engaged in discussions at the IPU Women Inter-Parliamentary Meeting, emphasising the need for more women in leadership and governance. However, while the government made commitments, the real challenge remains the full implementation of these resolutions at home.

As the founder of the Crime Victims Foundation of Nigeria (CRIVIFON), what new frontiers were established for your organisation?

The conference provided valuable insights that will help CRIVIFON expand its reach and impact in Nigeria. Some key areas of focus moving forward include:

• Strengthening Legal Protections for Crime Victims:

Many victims of gender-based violence, police brutality, and other crimes in Nigeria lack access to justice. CRIVIFON aims to push for legal reforms that will strengthen victim protection and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.

• Digital Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns:

In response to discussions on the digital gender gap, CRIVIFON is working on leveraging social media and digital platforms to educate women about their rights, laws protecting them, and available legal resources.

• Collaborations with Government and Law Enforcement:

The conference reinforced the importance of partnering with law enforcement agencies to ensure that they are well-trained in handling cases of domestic violence, sexual harassment, and human rights abuses.

How many breakout sessions did you participate in?

I participated in eight (8) breakout sessions during the conference. Each session focused on critical issues such as:

Gender-based violence and legal reforms; economic empowerment for African women; youth engagement in human rights advocacy; digital inclusion and technology for women’s development; mental health and emotional support for women victims; the future of women’s leadership in governance to mention a few.

What were your key takeaways from these sessions and the conference in general?

Some major takeaways from the conference include:

• Urgency in tackling gender-based violence: Governments need to implement stricter laws and faster judicial processes to ensure justice for victims.

• Economic inclusion is key: Women must be empowered financially through business loans, tech training, and employment opportunities.

• Youth involvement is necessary: Engaging young Nigerians in advocacy programmes will ensure long-term progress in gender equality.

• Accountability is crucial: Governments must move beyond policies and take concrete action to protect women’s rights.

Would you say the conference achieved its objectives?

Yes, the conference achieved its objectives in terms of raising awareness, strengthening global commitments, and creating actionable roadmaps for gender equality. However, the challenge remains implementation—ensuring that policies are enforced at the national and local levels.

How beneficial are the resolutions to Nigeria?

The resolutions provide a framework to:

• Improve women’s representation in politics and business

• Strengthen laws against domestic violence and gender-based violence

• Promote economic opportunities for women in rural areas

• Enhance digital literacy and access to technology.

Are the resolutions enforceable in Nigeria? If not, how can they be made enforceable?

Currently, these resolutions are not legally binding unless the Nigerian government adopts them into national laws.

To make them enforceable:

• Legislation must be passed in the National Assembly.

• State governments must integrate them into local policies.

• Public awareness campaigns should ensure people understand and demand their rights.

What messages and action plans are expected for Nigeria post-conference?

Nigeria is expected to:

• Implement stronger gender-based violence laws.

• Empower more women economically and politically.

• Ensure digital inclusion for women and girls.

What are the new strides for CRIVIFON in 2025?

CRIVIFON is working on expanding legal aid for crime victims; launching a nationwide awareness campaign on human rights; training police officers on proper victim support.

How far have you gone with forming young rights ambassadors?

We are making progress in training young human rights ambassadors in secondary schools across Nigeria.

How many schools have embraced the initiative?

Currently, we are in discussions with several schools, and more are expected to fully implement the programme this year.

What are CRIVIFON’s goals for 2025?

• Expand legal aid services.

• Build a national database for crime victims.

• Increase partnerships with international human rights organisations

Continue our training programme for police and other law enforcement officials on human rights.

April 8, 2025
State risks N500b suit over demolished housing project

A United Kingdom (UK)-based Nigerian businessman, Robert Baba Idoko, has threatened to sue the Nasarawa State Government over the alleged unlawful demolition of his property worth over N100million.

The property, consisting of blocks of two-storey structures, was allegedly demolished by officials of the state’s Urban Development Board, who were said to have acted at the prompting of a Bishop said to be the spiritual father of the state Deputy Governor.

In a “pre-action notice” sent to the Nasarawa State Governor, Attorney-General, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and NUDB, Idoko said: “The unjustly demolished property is in Gbegyedna community, behind City College of Education, Mararaba, Karu Local Government Area.’’

Idoko, who wept when he sighted the rubbles that his multi-million naira investment have become, said his faith in the country had been shattered.

He said: “I am done with this part of the world. Whoever wants the land should come and take it. But, they should pay me all that it cost me to develop the property before the state government sent its officials to pull it down.”

In the pre-action notice, Idoko’s lawyer, Ndubisi Kalu, stated: “It is our clients’ instruction that sometime in June 2024, he purchased a land at Gbegyedna community behind City College of Education Mararaba, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, measuring 120ft by 100ft, where the demolished edifice was built with his life savings.

“After the purchase, he, in company of his building engineer, approached NUDB in Abacha Road, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa, wherein he purchased a file opening form at the cost of N5,000, for necessary documentations, and further submitted three copies of building plans to NUDB for approval alongside the purchased form.

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“Our client was surprised and shocked to see a legion of Police, Civil Defence, vigilante and staff of NUDB, who invaded his newly built house on October 3, 2024, about 7 am with bulldozers demolishing the structures without any prior notice.”

The lawyer said while his client’s efforts to get answers from the state government failed, he was told at NUDB office on Abacha Road in Karu Local Government that a Catholic priest claimed to own valid title documents to the land.

Kalu said: “Our client has suffered psychological trauma, as a result of the action of the staff of NUDB in destroying his property without any justification known to law, which has made it difficult for him (Idoko) to return to his base in the United Kingdom.”

The lawyer added: “We have the instructions of our client to demand for the immediate payment of N500million as special and general damages within seven days beginning from the day you receive this letter.”

He cautioned that should the state and its affected agencies fail to meet his client’s demand in the letter within the stipulated time, “we shall be left with no option than to resort to our client for further instructions by approaching a court of competent jurisdiction where we shall be asking for substantial sum as damages against you.”

Idoko, who spoke during a visit to the site, said: “All I am asking for is my money that I spent on this project should be refunded so that I can pursue my life and career in peace.

“I really need justice. This is all I have in my life and all that I have worked for. This rubles is what is now left of our savings.’’

April 8, 2025
Court dismisses socialite Ariket’s no-case plea in drug trafficking trial

The Federal High Court, in Lagos yesterday dismissed a No-Case-Submission filed by a Lagos socialite, Mrs. Funmilola Arike Ogbuaya, who is standing trial on drug trafficking charges.

Justice Deinde Dipeolu in the ruling said the prosecution had established a case against socialite.

Arike is standing trial on a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy, unlawful possession, aiding and abetting and attempting to smuggle 1.595 kilogrammes of cocaine saltiva to Saudi Arabia.

National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA had on April 24, last year re-arraigned Arike alongside her alleged convicted co-conspirator, Odeyemi Omolola, who is currently serving 25 years jail-term, for drug trafficking.

They were first arraigned before Justice Hadizat Rabiu-Shagari (now a Court of Appeal Judge) in 2017, on a five-count charge of conspiracy, aiding and abetting, unlawful possession of banned drug, and attempting to export the said banned drug to Saudi Arabia.

Odeyemi Omolara, who was convicted, was arraigned on charges of conspiracy, unlawful possession of banned drug, and attempt to export the said banned drug to Saudi Arabia. He was a co-defendant with Arike who was arraigned on charges of conspiracy, aiding and abetting and procuring the convict for the purpose of trafficking the prohibited drug.

They had pleaded not guilty to the charges and were admitted to bail on various terms by the court.

However, midway through the trial, the convict, Ariyo Monsurat Olabisi, informed the court of her intention to change her plea, which was granted by the court.

Upon the re-reading of the charge, she pleaded guilty to the charge of attempting to illegally export the prohibited drug to Saudi-Arabia, and she was sentenced to 2’5 years’ imprisonment.

Dissatisfied with Justice Shagari’s judgment, the convict, through her lawyer, appealed her conviction. But her appeal was dismissed on February 26, 2021, after affirming Justice Shagari’s judgment by a three-man-panel led by Justice Ebiowei Tobi, or lacking in merit.

But almost nine years after their first arraignment, both the socialite, Arike and her convicted conspirator, Olabisi, were re-arraigned on the same four-count charge, before Justice Deinde Dipeolu.

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While Olabisi pleaded guilty to the charges, Ariket, again denied the allegations.

Following their plea, the prosecutor, Mr. Abu Ibrahim, reviewed the facts of the charges, as well tendered all exhibits in the case against the convict.

He also pleaded with the court to remand the socialite, Ariket, pending the hearing and determination of the charge.

However, Ariket’s lawyer Yakubu Galadima, told the court that he had filed his client’s bail application and the same has been served on the prosecutor.

Galadima also pleaded with the court to release the socialite to him pending the hearing and determination of the bail application.

During Ariket’s trial, the prosecutor, Barrister Ibrahim called nine witnesses, as well, tendered several documentary exhibits.

Upon conclusion of the prosecutor’s case, Arike instead of opening her defence, opted for No-Case-Submission.

However, on February 26, the prosecution and defence argued and adopted briefs on the No-Case-Submission. While the judge fixed today for ruling on their submissions.

Ruling on the No-Case-Submission today, Justice Dipeolu, after reading through all the arguments canvassed by the parties, held that: “From the evidence adduced by the Prosecution witness one to nine, a prima facie case has been established against the defendant. There is a need for the defendant to open her defence against the charges against her.”

Consequently, the judge dismissed the defendant’ No-Case-Submission.

The judge thereafter adjourned the matter to April 29, for the defendant to open her defence.

Charges against the socialite and her convicted partner reads: “that you Odeyemi Omolara a.k.a Ariyo Monsurat Olabisi, Female, Adult of No. 27, Adebule Street, Off Palm Avenue, Mushin, Lagos State, and Funmilola Arike Ogbuaya a.k.a Ariket, Funmilola Ogundipe on about the 23rd February 2017 conspired to Export 1.595 Kilograms of Cocaine, a Narcotic Drug and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 14(b) of the National Drug Law Enforcement agency Act Cap. N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

“That you Funmilola Arike Ogbuaya a.k.a Ariket, Funmilola Ogundipe on or about the 24th February 2017 aided one Odeyemi Omolara a.k.a Ariyo Monsurat Olabisi to Export 1.595 kilogrammes of Cocaine, a Narcotic Drug and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 14(b) of the National Drug Law Enforcement agency Act Cap. N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

“That you Funmilola Arike Ogbuaya a.k.a Ariket, Funmilola Ogundipe on or about the 24 February 2017 procured one Odeyemi Omolara a.k.a Ariyo Monsurat Olabisi to Export 1.595 kilogrammes of Cocaine, a Narcotic Drug and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 14(b) of the National Drug Law Enforcement agency Act Cap. N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

“That you Odeyemi Omolara a.k.a Ariyo Monsurat Olabisi, Female, Adult of No. 27, Adebule Street, Off Palm Avenue, Mushin, Lagos State on or about the 24th February 2017 without Lawful Authority knowingly possessed 1.595 kilogrammes of Cocaine, a Narcotic Drug and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 19 of the National Drug Law Enforcement agency Act Cap. N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.”

April 8, 2025
Elias is Lagos High Court Chief Registrar

Mr. Tajudeen Elias has been confirmed as Chief Registrar of Lagos State High Court.

The appointment is effective January 2, 2025.

A graduate of Lagos State University, Ojo, Elias earned his law degree in 1994 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1996.

He began his legal career at the law firm of Sola Idowu (SAN) & Co., where he practiced between 1997 and 1999 before joining the Lagos State Judiciary as a magistrate.

Since then, Mr. Elias has steadily risen through the ranks, serving in various judicial and administrative roles.

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His positions have included Coroner in the Ikeja Magisterial District, Chairman of the Family Court, and Deputy Chief Registrar (Administration) at the High Court in Ikeja.

Prior to his confirmation, he served as Acting Chief Registrar.

Over the years, Mr. Elias has also engaged in professional development through international training.

He participated in a training on Judicial Case Management (October 2011) and Effective People Management (May–June 2012), both organized by RIPA International in London.

In December 2006, he also attended a judicial training program at the National Judicial College, University of Nevada, Reno, USA.

He currently serves on several committees within the High Court and chairs a number of them, contributing significantly to the administration of justice in Lagos State.

April 8, 2025
‘Tackle root causes of human trafficking’

The Anti-Human Trafficking Legal Hub, Lagos has called for collaboration amongst stakeholders to address the root causes of human trafficking.

The Director of Programmes for the hub, Tessy Osakwe made the call in a statement issued in Lagos yesterday.

Osakwe said,” the fight against human trafficking requires our collective commitment and action. Let us stand in solidarity with the victims and survivors, amplifying their voices and working tirelessly to eradicate this injustice.”

She decried what was described as “the egregious violation of human rights”, which she noted affects millions of individuals worldwide, stripping them of their dignity and freedom.

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“Human trafficking is a complex and pervasive issue that takes many forms, including forced labor, sexual exploitation and involuntary domestic servitude. Victims; often vulnerable individuals in dire circumstances, are manipulated, coerced, and exploited with little hope of escape.

“The repercussions of trafficking extend far beyond the victims themselves, impacting families, communities, and society as a whole.

“One of the most heartbreaking aspects of trafficking is that it often thrives in the shadows of indifference. Many victims are living amongst us, hidden in plain sight, suffering in silence while society turns a blind eye.

“Traffickers prey on the most vulnerable—those living in poverty, facing discrimination, or lacking access to education.

“Traffickers (who may include family members and close friends) exploit weaknesses and create a cycle of abuse that can be incredibly difficult to break.

“As a community, we must come together to address the root causes of trafficking. This includes advocating for policies that protect vulnerable populations, raising awareness about the signs of trafficking and supporting organizations dedicated to prevention and recovery efforts. Education plays a vital role—not only in informing potential victims about the risks they face but also in empowering them to seek help.

“We must hold accountable those who perpetrate these crimes and do everything we can to dismantle the networks that profit from the suffering of others.

“This requires collaboration across sectors—government, law enforcement, non-profits, and the private sector—to create a unified front against this modern-day slavery.”

April 8, 2025
DSVA club inducts 365

The Kings and Queens Club of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has received a boost as 365 students have been inducted into the club.

The students were inducted into the club after undergoing a six-week training by the agency.

The induction ceremony held last Thursday at Government Senior College Hall, Agege.

The new inductees were drawn from 13 colleges including Joram College, Iju Senior Grammar School, Iju Junior Grammar School, Iju Obawole Junior Grammar School, Orile-Agege Community Junior High School and Eko Junior College.

Others include Estate Junior High School, Stadium Junior High School, Keke Senior High School, Vetland Senior Grammar School, District Junior College, Unity Junior College and Yewa Junior High School.

The initiative is supported by Ford Foundation.

In her address at the induction ceremony held at Government Senior Secondary school, Agege, DSVA Executive Secretary, Mrs Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi urged the inductees to remember that they are not just representatives of their communities, but also role models for their peers.

“Your actions, words, and decisions will have a ripple effect of positive change that will reach far beyond these walls”, she said.

While congratulating the inductees for completing a six-week training, she also commended them for their dedication and commitment to the ideals of the club.

Mrs Vivour-Adeniyi expressed appreciation to the Ford Foundation, whose unwavering support and generosity, she emphasised, have made the initiative possible.

“Their commitment to social justice and their investment in building capacity for sustainable change continue to inspire and empower many”, she said.

…DSVA engages Odi-Olowo, Lagos Island East

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA),held an engagement program with 70 members of Local council development area odi-olowo ojuwoye under mushin LCDA, AND 50 members of Lagos Island East LCDA-CDC,lagos state, on issues surrounding Sexual and Gender’Based Violence (SGBV) on 25th of March 2025.

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The CDC’s members as stakeholders in the fight against SGBV were sensitized by the officer of the community engagement department of the Lagos DSVA and representative of the Executive Secretary, Ms. Adetoun Odumbo.

They were exposed to the issues surrounding SGBV, and that, they as stakeholders are Mandated Reporters of SGBV, that when they see something, they are mandated to report the case.

She engaged the audience, consisting of men and women on the forms of SGBV, effects of SGBV, child abuse, and its adverse effects. She emphasized the critical role of parents in curbing child abuse and highlighted the distinction between child discipline and child abuse.

This sensitization program underscores the agency’s dedication to raising awareness and encouraging reporting of SGBV cases, reaffirming its commitment to combating sexual and gender-based violence in Lagos State.

As first responder, they were encouraged to report cases of abuse around them, rather than concealing the information when they witness them, so that, together, SGBV can be reduced to the bearest minimum in their locality.

The sessions were engaging, as there were opportunities for an interactive session even as they pledged their support to eradicating SGBV out of their communities.

Emphasis was laid on the Agency’s toll free line, 08000333333, as a channel of report.

The effort of the Lagos State Government was appreciated by LCDA Chairman odi-olowo and Lagos Island East.

April 8, 2025
Evangelist not responsible for blogger’s detention, say lawyers

The legal team of the Founder of Zion Prayer Movement Outreach, Evangelist Ebuka Obi, has said he was not responsible for the detention of blogger Chizorom Harrison Ofoegbu (a.k.a “Ijele Speaks”).

Ofogbu is on trial before Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court Lagos over an allegation of threat to Obi’s life.

At a briefing at the weekend, Obi’s legal team – Kingsley Okigbo, Ugonna Okpara, and Gerty Nkechi-Iloegbunam, as well as his Media & Public Relations Consultant, Dan Aibangbe, described the reports (not by The Nation) as “baseless, malicious, and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and give the church and its spiritual leader a bad name”.

The team said the defendant was initially granted bail on June 14, 2024.

When he could not meet the bail conditions, he applied through his counsel for a variation, which the prosecution did not object to.

The court granted his request by varying the bail conditions and adjourned trial till October 21 and 22, 2024.

The team said as far as the church knows, Ofoegbu perfected the bail conditions and ought to have been released.

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The team, however, said when the case came up on October 21, 2024, Ofoegbu’s counsel informed the judge that his client was still in custody and that he was not brought to court by men of the Nigerian Correctional Services.

Justice Aluko then asked why Ofoegbu was still in custody having been granted bail.

According to the church legal team, the prosecutor told Justice Aluko that Ofoegbu was in prison custody over a separate legal matter involving defamation and cybercrime against one Daddy Hezekiah, founder of Living Christ Mission.

The legal team added that as a law-abiding citizen, Evangelist Obi owed it a duty to report any wrongdoing done to him to the police rather than take laws into his own hands.

“As far as we are concerned and know, Ofoegbu was granted bail by the court in July 2024 in a case involving allegations of threats to life reported by Evangelist Obi and we did not oppose his bail,” the lawyers said.

They also provided documents to prove that Ofoegbu’s bail was perfected.

“The ongoing detention of Ofoegbu, popularly called ‘Ijele Speaks’, has no connection whatsoever with Evangelist Ebuka Obi,” the team insisted.

They added that the report by Sahara Reporters was incorrect.

According to them, Zion Prayer Movement Outreach, led by Evangelist Obi, is committed to transparency and integrity.

“The spiritual leader remains focused on his mission of preaching the gospel, promoting peace, and healing broken homes.

“We call on the public and media outlets to disregard the fabricated report by Sahara Reporters and warn that legal steps may be taken against those spreading false information.

“We urge Nigerians to seek verified information and reject sensational narratives aimed at damaging reputations,” the team said.

April 8, 2025
Court orders withdrawal of fraud claims against businessman

The Federal High Court in Lagos has cleared a businessman, Mr. Ebi Otsaye Ogionwo, in a charge filed against him by the police following a complaint by Mr. Oluwatosin Adefila.

The police claimed Ogionwo obtained $300,000 from Adefila by false pretences.

In an affidavit, Ogionwo’s lawyers said Adefila misrepresented facts and misled the police into filing the suit.

According to the affidavit, Ogionwo’s business relationship with Adefila spanned 15 years “with full and satisfactory performance”.

The document said the corporate entity represented by Ogionwo accessed loan facilities in varying sums from Adefila’s Boltzemo Nigeria Ltd in 2018 and 2021 and repaid them with full interest.

However, the repayment of the $300,000 loan granted in 2022 was late due to the nonperformance of a third-party organisation engaged by the corporate entity represented by Ogionwo.

Adefila was said to have been aware of the third-party nonperformance but mounted intense pressure on Ogionwo to pay.

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Justice D.E. Osiagor, on January 30, ordered Adefila and his associates to “retract and remove all offensive publications” portraying Ogionwo as dishonest and fraudulent.

The judge also ordered Adefila’s lawyer, Mr. Justice Akosem “to appear before the Court on May 26th, 2025 to explain the justification for the threatening messages sent to other parties,” including Ogionwo.

The judge ordered that the outstanding sum of $185,000 owed by the corporate entity represented by Ogionwo be deposited in the bank account of the Federal High Court Deputy Chief Registrar pending the retraction and removal of all offensive publications made against Ogionwo.

It was learnt that the deposit has been made in compliance with the order.

Therefore, all debt obligations to Adefila’s Bolzemo Nigeria Ltd have been met, Ogionwo’s lawyers said.

Ogionwo’s legal team has filed a defamation suit in the High Court of Lagos State, Epe Division, against Adefila, the police, S. O. Ayodele, Independent Communications Network Ltd; Akin Kuponiyi; Town Crier; EchoNews, and Felix Kuyi.

The lawyers aver that their client’s image and reputation have been irreparably damaged by the offensive publications.

They are, on behalf of their client, seeking N2 billion in damages for defamation, cyberbullying, intimidation, harassment, and online stalking.

Ogionwo’s lawyers are also seeking a court order that the defendants tender an unreserved apology to Ogionwo and that the sixth to the tenth defendants publish a retraction.

April 8, 2025
Ayorinde advocates urgent decentralisation of Law School

Former Chairman of the Legal Aid Council, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde (SAN), has called for the urgent decentralisation of the Nigerian Law School.

He decried the persistent backlog of law graduates who are unable to gain admission into the Nigerian Law School due to the limited number of campuses across the country.

The SAN described the existing system as no longer fit for purpose, warning that the bottleneck has become a major impediment to the progress of legal education in Nigeria.

Speaking during a legal stakeholders’ forum, he said: “It is time to liberalise the Law School year. The limited number of campuses in Nigeria is no longer fit for purpose.

“The Council of Legal Education (CLE) should be strengthened to rise to the challenge.”

He proposed a reform structure in which the CLE will continue to set and regulate standards while licensed institutions will be allowed to run accredited lecture centres for the one-year professional training programme.

He emphasised that such a structure would decentralise training, create opportunities for more graduates, and reduce pressure on the current system.

Under this model, while lectures would take place at various approved centres, examinations and the traditional law dinners would be centrally coordinated by the CLE on specific days at designated centres.

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Ayorinde stressed that this model would maintain the integrity and uniformity of the training process.

He noted that this approach would not only improve access but also ensure that the standards of legal training remain high.

“The CLE will still grade and Call successful candidates to the Bar,” he said, adding that professional excellence will be preserved.

According to Ayorinde, such liberalisation would go a long way in resolving what he termed the “unpleasant incidents of backlogs” that have plagued the system in recent years.

He pointed out that it is unjust for law graduates, after years of academic effort, to be left in limbo due to structural constraints.

“The unpleasant incidents of backlogs will be solved through liberalisation,” he said.

“It is an achievable reform, and it is long overdue. We must not continue to allow the dreams of young law graduates to be delayed or denied.”

Ayorinde urged the Federal Government, the CLE, and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to work collaboratively in implementing the liberalisation policy.

“Now is the time,” he said. “We must act with urgency to preserve the integrity of our legal profession and ensure the future of our young graduates.”

April 8, 2025