The Nation Newspaper

Category: Law

  • Lawyer urges Anambra govt to charge or release detainees

    Lawyer urges Anambra govt to charge or release detainees

    A lawyer, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has urged the Anambra State government to either charge or release those arrested and detained by its agents.

    He said if the detainees are not under investigation but undergoing rehabilitation, the state government has an obligation to inform the public.

    “If no incriminating evidence has been found against them, they must be released immediately and unconditionally,” Ejiofor said in a statement.

    The lawyer said March 15 made it five weeks since many citizens of Anambra “were arbitrarily arrested and detained in a private facility controlled by the state government”.

    The statement reads in part: “As a human rights activist, I am compelled by conscience to speak out whenever the rule of law is trampled upon.

    “It is my unwavering duty to hold those in power accountable and demand adherence to due process in governance.

    “Shockingly, they have not been charged with any offence or brought before any court of law. This is a flagrant violation of their fundamental rights.

    “More disturbing is the fact that these individuals were not placed under the custody of the Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), or even the military for investigation.

    “Instead, they have remained unlawfully detained without any formal explanation from the state government.

    “Regrettably, some misguided individuals are applauding this clear infraction of the law.

    “For five weeks, the Anambra State Government has failed to provide any official briefing or statement to the public on the status of these detainees. This lack of transparency is unacceptable.

    “We are often quick to criticise the Federal Government or its agencies for abuse of power, including enforced disappearances and illegal detentions. Yet, here we are, witnessing similar acts at the state level.

    Read Also: I have no link to any militant group, says Fubara

    “Security is a collective responsibility. I have always championed active citizen participation in combating insecurity by providing credible intelligence to security agencies.

    “It is on record that I was among the fearless voices that condemned the heinous activities of criminals masquerading as agitators when they were wreaking havoc and unleashing terror on our people.

    “At the height of these atrocities, I publicly urged Governor Soludo to deploy all legal means to decisively tackle these elements. I emphasised that they were not genuine agitators but criminals who should be treated as such.

    “At that time, many who now attack those speaking the truth were too weak and afraid to voice their opinions.

    “I, on the other hand, put my life, my family, and my staff at risk by standing against these criminals.

    “I am fully aware that intelligence reports indicated several plots to eliminate me, yet I remained steadfast, trusting in God’s protection.

    “That being said, I want to make my position crystal clear: I, Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, will never support anyone proven to be aiding or abetting criminal activities in our land.

    “If there is verifiable evidence implicating or linking any individual to the commission of any crime, the law must take its course.

    “I have previously commended the Anambra State Government’s Agnechemba security outfit for its efforts in restoring order.

    “The security outfit has done well, in restoring some level of security in the state, and the Soludo administration deserves credit for its achievements.

    “However, I have always stressed the need for professionalism and adherence to rules of engagement by security agents, to minimise casualties and avoid unnecessary errors.

    “For those misconstruing my stance, let me make it clear – I am not attacking the state government.

    “I have consistently spoken out against infractions by the Federal Government and its agencies, and I will not hesitate to do the same when our own state government errs.”

    Ejiofor stressed that political affiliations or fear of the unknown should not prevent the people from speaking truth to power.

    He added: “I admire Governor Soludo’s vision and commend his efforts, but respect for the rule of law must remain non-negotiable.

    “Anambra is a civilised state, and we must lead by example. When citizens are arrested for any alleged offence, they must be handed over to the appropriate security agencies, investigated, and, if necessary, charged to court within the legally stipulated timeframe, when prima facie case is established.

    “If, however, these detainees are not under investigation but undergoing rehabilitation, the state government has an obligation to inform the public.

    “If no incriminating evidence has been found against them, they must be released immediately and unconditionally.

    “We must collectively support and promote policies that enhance the well-being of our people while ensuring that governance remains anchored on justice, fairness, and the rule of law.”

  • ‘Declaration of emergency in Rivers is a courageous move’

    ‘Declaration of emergency in Rivers is a courageous move’

    The Bola Ahmed Tinubu (BAT) lawyers has described the six months suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State Assembly as courageous move by President Bola Tinubu.

    The Convener of BAT Lawyers, Mrs. Abibat Bankole-Apena argued that “the declaration was a courageous, impartial and ingenious move by President Tinubu to protect national and State Assets, to force all warring parties to sheath their swords, to restore law and order and ensure a peaceful Rivers State to the benefit of the Rivers people and Nigerians at large.”

    “We firmly posit, that pursuant to the failed several mediation measures employed by the President in recent past, in order to resolve the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, the flagrant disregard for the Supreme Court Judgment by Governor Fubara, the political precedence of declaration of state of emergency, the threats and actualization of threats carried out by Niger Delta Militant Group in Rivers State, and the satisfaction of the constitutional provision required to declare a state of emergency, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has acted within the bounds of the Law.

    Abibat Bankole-Apena chronicled political events in Rivers State, starting May 29, 2015 up till last Monday, when the crisi in the state  took a new twist when 26 lawmakers served a notice of alleged misconduct against Governor Fubara and his Deputy, Ngozi Odu.

    It said that the notice of misconduct against the duo marks a resumption of the impeachment plot against them.

    BAT Lawyers noted that here have been several threats to blow up pipelines in the Niger Delta Area, by several Niger Delta Militant Group prior to the occurrence of last Monday and Tuesday the 17th and 18th day of March, 2025.

    Read Also: Top five countries offering best salaries, visa pathways for STEM professionals in 2025

    “On Monday 17th March 2025, pipeline explosions rocked the Trans-Niger Pipeline at Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State. Another explosion occurred at a pipeline manifold in the Omwawriwa axis of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State on Tuesday the 18th day of March, 2025.

    These pipeline bombings, according to reports, will cost Nigeria losses running to over Thirty-Five Million Dollars daily:, the group argued.

    BAT lawyers said the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola  Tinubu  is not alien neither to our laws nor to our political history, provided the constitutional provisions are met as in the instant case.

    The group posited that no responsible President of a sovereign Nation will cross legs and allow government properties to be destroyed deliberately causing economic sabotage to a country that is just wriggling out of inflation, without taking firm step to nip further disastrous actions in the bud.

  • Suspension of Fubara, Assembly unconventional, by SAN

    Suspension of Fubara, Assembly unconventional, by SAN

    A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Babatunde Fashanu, has described the six months suspension of the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara as unconstitutional and illegal.

    Fashanu  argued that section 305 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,  1999, under which the President claimed to act does not give him that power to suspend the governor and the state assembly.

    He said there are other sections of the Constitution that deal with the tenure and removal of a Governor being Sections 180, 181, 188, 189 and191.

    According to him, “Section 305 of the Constitution only deals with proclamation of state of emergency which can be done with the governor in place. 

    Read Also: I have no link to any militant group, says Fubara

    “Even the proclamation of a state of emergency is subject to the issuing of a Gazette to that effect and approval by the NASS within two days since it is in session. 

    “Sacking the Rivers State House of Assembly (a State Legislature) by the President is worse being a flagrant infringement of the separation of powers in the constitution or where is it in section 305 or anywhere in the constitution that the president can do that?’

    Fashanu contended that what the President has done is bad politics by taking sides in a family matter through illegal means.

    “What has happened does not augur well for Nigerian democracy and economy having regard to Rivers State being a major oil producing State with potential minuses for the already over-sapped common man”, he added.

  • Court refers OTL property dispute to ADR

    Court refers OTL property dispute to ADR

    • Bianca, sons absent

    Justice Adedayo Oyebanji of a Lagos High Court sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) has referred to Multi Door Court House the suit filed by Ojukwu Transport Limited(OTL) over N12million owed it by West African Offshore Limited in rent.

    The lease expired in 2012.

    On March 10, Justice Oyebanji took all pending applications and referred to the multi-door court the issue  of West African Offshore Limited (owned by Uche Obilor).

    Also, Maple Petrochemicals,  owned by Kwara Governor Abdurahman Abdurazak, had in an application  requested the court to restrain OTL, who had executed warrant on its 14 Probyn Road, Ikoyi property in 2022.

    The warrant was executed on the property following a 2018 judgment delivered by the court.

    Afamefuna and Nwachukwu Ojukwu through their best friend, Mrs Bianca Ojukwu who had filed an application to withdraw an earlier one seeking to join as parties, were not in court, neither were their lawyers.

    Read Also: Top five countries offering best salaries, visa pathways for STEM professionals in 2025

    However, OTL Director, Dr P. Ike Ojukwu; the company’s counsel, Chief Ifeanyi Okumah and Chief Massey Udegbe, OTL Estate agents, were in court.

     In another case,  Bianca and sons had instituted Form 49 – contempt proceedings against the Ojukwus/OTL  and some tenants before Justice A.M. Lawal.

    The matter which came up on March 13 at Ikeja  was adjourned to June 16.

    The lawyer that appeared for Bianca and sons had requested for more time to respond to applications before the court.

    The case, LD/1539/2012, in which judgment was delivered in 2022 had Bianca suing OTL on behalf of her sons who at time were minors.

    OTL, following judgment by Justice Adedayo Oyebanji on  June 1, 2018 in suit LD/794/2011,  executed warrant on its properties in Lagos, including the five suits before Justice A.M. Lawal.

  • Ex-Delta SSG denies frustrating electricity project

    Ex-Delta SSG denies frustrating electricity project

    A former Secretary to the Delta State Government, Chief Ovuzorie Macaulay, has denied frustrating the completion of the Ozoro 132 KVA substation electricity project. 

    Through his lawyer Mr. Andrew O. Odum (SAN), Principal Partner of Seat of Wisdom Chambers, Asaba, Macaulay faulted a report (not by The Nation) blaming him for stalling the project.

    In a letter Mr. Matthew Edevbie, he demanded an immediate retraction of alleged defamatory publication.

    The letter reads in part: “Our client has brought to our attention that following the arrest of Delta State-based comedian Ajirioghene Otagba, popularly known as MC2 Kingdom, sometime in February 2025, over a Facebook video post where the said comedian criticised the alleged abandonment of the Ozoro 132 KVA substation electricity project in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State awarded to Income Electrix Ltd, Mr. Matthew Edevbie who is the Chief Executive Officer of the Income Electrix Limited published certain unfounded and defamatory allegations against our client.

    “These allegations were contained in a statement titled: ‘The MC2 Kingdom Comedy Saga: Our Position’ Dated 16th February, 2025.

    “The said publication and in your recorded oral interview, which has been widely circulated on social media, you falsely accused our client of using his office as the Commissioner for Energy under Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s administration to stall and frustrate the completion of the Ozoro 132 KVA substation electricity project. 

    “This project, awarded to Income Electrix Ltd during Governor James Ibori’s administration, remains incomplete, and your publication falsely attributes blame to our client.

    “In your statement, you alleged: ‘Upon Governor Uduaghan taking over in 2007, Comrade Macaulay Ovuozourie, as Commissioner for Energy, stalled the project on the basis that the new governor was not interested in it.

    Read Also: I have no link to any militant group, says Fubara

    “A screenshot of the said defamatory statement is attached herewith as Annexure 1.

    “It is also our instruction that in your recorded oral interview which you caused to be published, you falsely claimed that it took you four years of begging our client who is a native of Owhelogbo and the government in which he had tremendous influence before the said project was released to the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC.

    “Our client categorically denies these allegations in their entirety. These statements are not only false and unwarranted but were also published with malicious intent to ridicule, malign, and defame our client’s character.

    “By the said defamatory publication as circulated on social media, you clearly communicated to the public that our client is a dubious and dishonest politician, a covert, a liar, a man without character and personality and that our client hates his people of Isoko nation.

    “Your action was clearly and deliberately aimed at reducing the esteem and estimations of our client in the eyes of the public and those who have read the said publication.

    “Furthermore; they were clearly designed to incite the lsoko ethnic nationality against our client by portraying him as a dishonest, unprincipled, and anti-Isoko politician.

    “As a direct consequence of your publication, some political figures have distanced themselves from our client and our client has suffered damage to his reputation as a seasoned politician, former Secretary to the State Government, former Commissioner for Energy, former Commissioner for Special Duties and Conflict Resolution, former Chief of Staff, Government House, past Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Delta State chapter, Philanthropist, and community leader.

    “Your deliberate and malicious publication constitutes defamation under the law.

    “You also know that our client is the holder of the title of Okiroro of Isoko nation, a title bestowed on him by all the traditional rulers of Isoko ethnic nationality in recognition of his selfless contributions to the entire lsoko nation.

    “Our client is shocked at your false and defamatory publications against him, seeing that our client has maintained a cordial relationship with you and your family for many years.

    “You are respected at home and abroad and our client has held you in very high esteem.

    “There is no doubt that your recent unwarranted and unprovoked attacks on our client are intentional, premeditated and detestable.”

    “Following your publication, our client has made several efforts to explain to you the effect thereof and gave you reasons and requested that you delete the publication and to apologise to our client.”

    “Despite entreaties from well-meaning friends and family members, you have refused to comply therewith.

    “Our prayers: In light of the foregoing, our client demands the immediate retraction and deletion of the defamatory statements and all related posts from all platforms where they were published; a public, unreserved apology, addressed to our client and published on the same platforms where the defamatory statements were circulated.

    “These actions must be completed within 14 days from the date of this letter.

    “Failure, refusal, or neglect to comply with these demands within the stated timeframe will leave our client with no choice but to initiate legal action against you without further notice.

    “We trust that you will take appropriate steps to rectify this matter promptly.”

  • SANs disagree over emergency rule in Rivers

    SANs disagree over emergency rule in Rivers

    Two Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) and a professor of law disagreed yesterday on the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

    Eminent lawyer Dr. Wahab Shittu argued that the president acted in the overall interest of the country.

    He said: “Law and order is central to democratic governance, and the situation in Rivers State was getting out of hand. A threat to security anywhere is a threat to security everywhere.

    “The president as the chief security of the country has a responsibility to deliver peace and security in any part of the country.”

    But, another SAN, Kunle Edun, argued that the President lacked the powers.

    He said: “The provisions of Section 305 relied upon by President Tinubu do not empower the President to remove or suspend elected state officials.

    “Section 305(3) of the Constitution prescribed the grounds upon which a State of Emergency can be declared and none of the reasons alluded to by the President justifies the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

    “As a matter of fact, under Section 305(4), the governor of a state, supported by a resolution of 2/3 majority of the members of the House of Assembly, may request the President to declare a state of emergency on any part of the state.

    “The Supreme Court has already settled the issues causing the crisis in the state and the House of Assembly had started sitting.

    Read Also; ​TIMELINE of Wike-Fubara fight, Rivers political crisis since 2023

    “Governor Fubara was at the House of Assembly complex to present the 2025 budget in response to the demand of the Rivers’ State House of Assembly.

    “So, Mr. President was very wrong to say that there was no longer a functional government in Rivers State simply because the House of Assembly complex was demolished.

    “Furthermore, the Constitution has already provided remedial provisions to take care of situations where a House of Assembly is unable to perform its Legislative functions.

    “Section 11(4) of the Constitution provides that at any time when a House of Assembly is unable to perform its functions by reason of situations prevailing in that State, the National Assembly may make law for the peace, order and good government of that state with respect to matters which the House of Assembly have power to make laws until such a time when the House is able to resume its functions.

    “The proviso to Section 11(4) is very apposite to understand the limitations of the power of the President.

    “The proviso provides that the intervention of the National Assembly by virtue of its powers under section 11(4) shall not confer on the National Assembly the power to remove the governor or deputy governor of the state.

    “Therefore, the Constitution is clear that there is no power conferred on any authority to remove or suspend a governor, the deputy or the House of Assembly of a state during a period of State of Emergency.

    “As a matter of fact and clear law, the President violated his oath of allegiance to protect, defend and abide by the provisions of the Constitution.

    “A state House of Assembly cannot be suspended by the President.

    “Rather, it is the National Assembly that has the constitutional power to take over the legislative functions of the State.

    “Therefore, the Constitution did not envisage a situation where a State will be without a legislature at any time.”

    For professor of law Sam Erugo, the declaration is in order given the circumstances.

    Erugo said: “It is obvious there is a breakdown of law and order in the state.

    “However, the situation could have been contained before it got to this point by the presidency.”

    Lawyer and Executive Director Cadrell Advocacy Centre, Evans Ufeli, agreed, noting that the political tension and crisis in Rivers State has reached a state of “clear and present danger” which represents the ground for drastic action.

    He said: “The action is, however, not completed; the President has published same in the Official Gazette containing a proclamation and transmitted it to the National Assembly in compliance with section 305 of the 1999 constitution as amended.

    “The National Assembly must within two days act on same by giving its concurrence to it before the process can become valid in the eyes of the law.

    “A state of emergency is more like an equitable remedy targeted at restoring peace to a country or any part thereof in the face of a clear and present danger.

    “The purpose of this is both preventive and curative, largely for the continuous peaceful habitation of a nation, to restore peace and tranquillity in times of chaos and promote regular and peaceful co-existence of all states and nations of Nigeria.

    “The President suspended the State House of Assembly together with the governor and that is controversial because same can be challenged.

    “I am not a fan of the Rivers State House of Assembly but there’s an overreach there. Can the President suspend the State House of Assembly? The days to come will tell.”

  • DSVA engages magistrates

    DSVA engages magistrates

    Executive Secretary Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi has stressed the determination of the state and the agency to quell the menace of sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) to the barest minimum.

    The DSVA Executive Secretary stated this during a 2- day engagement of 60 Magistrates on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in it’s continuous fight against the menace in the state.

    In her address, Mrs Vivour-Adeniyi noted that SGBV remains one of the most pressing challenges faced as a state and as a nation.

    She lamented  that  violation of human rights cuts across age, gender, and socio-economic status, leaving in its Wakefield devastating physical, psychological, and emotional scars.

    She stressed further that “The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of  Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to eradicating SGBV.

    “The establishment of our gency is a testament to this commitment, as we strive to provide a coordinated response to incidents of domestic and sexual violence, ensuring that survivors receive the necessary support and that perpetrators are held accountable”, she said.

    Read Also: How Nigeria and developing countries can leverage cryptonomics

    She averred that the success of the agency’s efforts hinges significantly on the role of the judiciary.

    “Magistrates, as the first point of contact in the justice system for many survivors, play a pivotal role in ensuring that justice is not only served but is seen to be served.

    “Your decisions, your sensitivity to the plight of survivors, and your commitment to upholding the rule of law are critical in shaping the outcomes of SGBV cases”, she said.

    She told the participants that the engagement serves as a platform to strengthen collaboration, share insights, and address the challenges that hinder the effective prosecution of SGBV cases and an opportunity to align strategies, enhance capacities, and reaffirm collective resolve to create a Lagos State where every individual can live free from fear and violence.

     The magistrates were urged to use the platform to share best practices and to explore innovative approaches that will enable delivery of justice more efficiently and compassionately.

    She said by assuring that the Agency and Judiciary can build a justice system that not only punishes offenders but also empowers survivors and deters future occurrences of SGBV.

    Facilitators at the engagement were Mrs Atinuke Odukoya who took Overview of Sexual   and Gender based Violence, Dr Babajide Martins took the topic Role of Magistrates in implementing relevant SGBV laws while Mrs Juliet Olumuyiwa Rufai took them on Psychology of Survivors/perpetrators, the referral pathway for GBV cases while group discussions rounded off the engagement.

  • ‘How Nigeria can harness LNG market’

    ‘How Nigeria can harness LNG market’

    Chairman, International Law Association (ILA) Dr Tolu Aderemi, has shed light on how Nigeria can take advantage and play leading role in the emerging Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) market.

    Dr Aderemi spoke in Lagos at a meeting of Energy Stakeholder’s aimed at addressing the pressing and perennial issues facing the nation’s energy sector convened by a law firm, Perchstone & Graeys

    The stakeholders meeting which was led by Dr.  Aderemi, Partner in charge of the law firm’s Energy Group, was titled “Digitization: A Catalyst for Energy Transformation In Nigeria.”

    The speakers at the event included a former Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum, Prof. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, NERC Commissioner, Planning, Research and Strategy, Dr. Yusuf Ali, and other leading local and foreign private sector players, stakeholders, and thought leaders.

    Aderemi noted that the ongoing Ukraine-Russian conflict, and the European Union’s impending decision to cut off imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia by 2030 present a unique opportunity for Nigeria, which the country does not seem to be cautious of.

     According to him, Nigeria has “over the past 20 years, cumulatively earned approximately $21 billion from its energy sector, in particular, from the liquified natural gas market.”

    The ILA President lamented that Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, has faced ongoing complex issues in its energy sector, characterized by a combination of theft, vandalism, and inefficiencies.

     “According to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), oil theft has cost the country an estimated US$1.5 billion annually, severely impacting its ability to meet production quotas set by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

    “ In recent years, the country has struggled to maintain its production levels, often falling short of its OPEC target of 1.8 million barrels per day. 

    “Currently, Nigeria supplies only 4 per cent of the EU’s LNG market, and stakeholders emphasized the critical need to enhance this share.

      Aderemi warned that if Nigeria fails to reduce the incidence of theft and vandalism of its energy infrastructure, it risks losing its chance to become a key player in the European energy market,

    Read Also: How Nigeria and developing countries can leverage cryptonomics

     “This is a pivotal moment for Nigeria. We cannot afford to lose this market share.” he declared.

    In his keynote address, Prof. Kachikwu reflected on the government’s efforts to combat oil theft and the importance of adopting technology to enhance production capabilities. 

    The former Minister was optimistic that with concerted efforts and the right preventive technologies, President Tinubu’s administration can achieve its ambitious target of producing 2 million barrels per day.

     On his part, Dr. Yusuf Ali, a Commissioner at NERC, provided insights into the government’s efforts to mitigate theft within the electricity sector. 

    He referenced the Electricity Act and various regulations aimed at enhancing security and efficiency. “The government is committed to reducing the incidence of theft in the electricity sector.

     However, we must also consider the integration of ‘useful technology’ that will alleviate the load on the national grid,” he stated.

    The panelists unanimously agreed on the necessity of adopting advanced technological solutions to the problems. 

    Mr. Ugo Obi, a Partner and head of the Information Communications and Technology(‘ICT’) Practice Group at the firm, emphasized the importance of real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance. 

    “We need to implement live grid simulations and AI-driven fault detection to enhance our energy infrastructure,” he said.

    On his part, Emmanuel Haruna, Managing Director of Lightspeed Energy Systems (UK), outlined a series of key strategies aimed at enhancing the national grid’s efficiency and resilience. 

    He emphasized the transformative potential of Digital Twin (DT) technology, which enables the creation of a real-time virtual replica of the physical grid. 

    This advanced modelling system would allow the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to continuously monitor, simulate, and optimize grid performance, identifying potential failures before they occur.

     By integrating AI-powered predictive analytics, Digital Twins can facilitate proactive maintenance, enhance grid stability, and enable more efficient load balancing.

    This approach not only reduce downtime and operational risks but also ensure a more resilient and adaptive power infrastructure for Nigeria’s growing energy demands.

    Ms. Chantelle K. O. Abdul, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of one of Nigeria’s leading meter manufacturing companies, Mojec International Limited, echoed the need for diversification in energy sources.

     “To achieve optimal use of the national electricity grid, Nigeria must seriously consider alternative fuel sources such as renewable energy. We need to move towards a cleaner, greener energy future,” she said, underscoring and advocating for a multi-faceted approach to energy production.

    Despite the existence of several laws governing the energy sector, Mr. Adediran Adeyemi, a Partner at Andersen Tax, pointed out that enforcement remains a significant challenge.

    “Nigeria is not lacking in legal frameworks; rather, the effectiveness and enforcement of these laws must be prioritized,” he stated. 

    This sentiment was echoed by other Panelists, who stressed this importance of accountability and regulatory compliance in combating theft and improving infrastructure.

    The meeting also highlighted the importance of international collaboration in addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges. 

    Oktay Curebal, CEO of Fifty2, a leading Blockchain and AI firm in the UAE, spoke about the potential for partnerships between Nigerian firms and international technology providers. Fifty’s vision for Nigeria’s power sector is “A future where Nigeria’s grid operates resiliently, transparently, and efficiently – powered by AI, secured by blockchain, and optimized through IOT”.

    According to him, “we have the opportunity to bring cutting-edge technology to Nigeria’s energy sector through strategic partnerships. 

    “This collaboration can pave the way for innovative solutions that address the unique challenges faced by Nigeria”, he said.

    “As the nation faces unprecedented challenges, the consensus among stakeholders is clear: technology must play a central role in safeguarding critical energy infrastructure and enhancing Nigeria’s position in the global market. 

    “With the potential for significant economic gains and the urgent need to address theft and inefficiencies, the time for action is now.

    “By embracing innovation, diversifying energy sources, and improving regulatory enforcement, Nigeria can not only secure its energy future but will also emerge as a leader in the global energy landscape.

    “The stakes are high, and the path forward is fraught with challenges, but with focus, collaboration and innovation, Nigeria has the potential to turn its energy sector into a beacon of progress and sustainability for the continent and beyond”, stakeholders stated.

  • Award: Lawyer greets Oyebanji

    Award: Lawyer greets Oyebanji

    Mr Tope Adebayo, the Principal Partner of Tope Adebayo LP, a leading law firm based in Lagos, has congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State on his  recognition as the Silverbird Man of the Year 2025.

     In a congratulatory message issued, Adebayo noted that Governor Oyebanji stands as a beacon of leadership, vision, and commitment to the growth and development of Ekiti State.

    According to him, Governor Oyebanji joins an esteemed group of leaders and visionaries honoured with the Silverbird Man of the Year award for their exceptional contributions to the development of Nigeria since the award’s inauguration 20 years ago.

    “Governor Oyebanji’s honour as the Silverbird Man of the Year Award is a testament to the power of purposeful leadership. His dedication to the good people of Ekiti State serves as an inspiration to us all, and we celebrate this well-earned recognition with him. “This award highlights the governor’s unwavering resolve and tireless efforts in driving transformative policies that have positively impacted the people of Ekiti and the nation at large.

    Read Also: Don’t set Nigeria on fire, Onjeh urges judiciary

    “His dedication towards advancing key infrastructural projects, promoting sustainable development and improving the welfare of the people has earned him the respect and admiration of Nigerians across the country.”

    Speaking further, Adebayo emphasised that the governor’s leadership is a shining example of how good governance can drive positive change, not just within a state but across the nation while urging other political leaders to emulate Governor Oyebanji by focusing on transparency, accountability, and service to the people.

    Since it was instituted in 2005 to recognise individuals who have impacted the society, the Silverbird Man of the Year award has become a coveted honour roll in the country.

    He noted that previous winners of the award include former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, (SAN); former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai; former Director-General of NAFDAC, late Prof Dora Akinyuli; business mogul, Chief Mike Adenuga and former Edo State governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole among other.

  • Mining company misrepresented judgment, says resident

    Mining company misrepresented judgment, says resident

    A resident of Libata/Kabirba, Malam Hamza Muhammed Libata, has accused Adamu Tah, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of El-Tahdam Exploration Limited, of misrepresenting a judgment.

    He said the decision, delivered by Justice E. Gakko of the Federal High Court, Birnin Kebbi, in Suit No. FHC/KB/CS/39/2024, did not affirm El-Tahdam’s mining rights, contrary to claims allegedly made by its CEO.

    Libata, who has closely monitored the legal dispute between Three Crowns Mines Ltd and El-Tahdam Exploration Ltd, clarified in an interview in Birnin Kebbi that the court, in its ruling on February 27, 2025, struck out the case on procedural grounds.

    He said the decision was based on the plaintiff’s failure to exhaust administrative remedies as required under Section 141 of the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, and Regulations 16 & 17 of the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Regulations, 2011.

    According to him, the judgment did not validate El-Tahdam’s licenses, as reported in a newspaper (not The Nation) on March 7, 2025.

    Libata called on the public to disregard Tah’s claims.

    He reiterated that his community remains open to responsible investors who respect legal procedures and local interests.

    The lawsuit, filed by Three Crowns Mines Ltd against El-Tahdam Exploration Limited, the Mining Cadastre Office, and the Minister for Solid Minerals Development, sought a declaration that the exploration license (No. 45689 EL) and mining lease (No. 62680 ML) granted to El-Tahdam Exploration Limited were unlawful due to procedural violations.

    The court, Libata said, did not rule on the validity of these licenses.

    Instead, it struck out the case, citing the necessity of exhausting administrative dispute resolution mechanisms before resorting to litigation.

    According to Libata, Justice Gakko reinforced this position by referencing legal precedents such as Ogugua v. Jimoh (2018) LPELR-46649 CA and Obi v. INEC (2007) LPELR-2166 SC, both of which emphasise that courts lack jurisdiction when administrative procedures have not been followed.

    He said despite this clear ruling, Tah was quoted as saying that the court had ruled in favour of El-Tahdam Exploration Ltd and upheld its mining rights.

    Libata refuted this, stating that no such pronouncement was made.

    He clarified that the legal standing of all parties remains unchanged pending the completion of the required administrative procedures.

    Libata said Tah’s alleged misrepresentation could amount to contempt of court.

    He urged the Federal High Court in Birnin Kebbi to take decisive action against El-Tahdam Exploration Ltd for misrepresenting judicial proceedings.

    “This type of misrepresentation must not be tolerated,” Libata said.

    “The judiciary is the last hope of the common man, and its decisions must be respected and accurately reported.”