The Nation Newspaper

Category: Law

Appeal Court to hear The Nation’s case Thursday

The Court of Appeal in Calabar has fixed a hearing for Thursday in the case by Vintage Press Limited (publishers of The Nation) and Chief Basil Otamiri.

The suit is numbered CA/C/232M/2023.

A hearing notice issued by the court yesterday reads: “Take notice that the above-mentioned appeal will be listed for hearing before the Court of Appeal sitting at Calabar on Thursday the 26th day of September 2024 at the hour of 9a, in the forenoon.”

The plaintiff, Chief Otamiri, claimed that a publication by this newspaper was defamatory to him.

The publication was a “Wanted Person” advertorial sponsored by the Rivers Police Command.

The publication stated that Otamiri was declared wanted in connection with a case of murder and asked anyone with useful information to contact the police.

In a judgment by the Cross River State High Court, the Chief Judge, Justice Akon Ikpeme, held that the police did not demonstrate that the claimant was wanted in a case of murder.

He held that the police “never came to court to state their side of the evidence.”

This, he held, “translates to the fact that the claimant’s evidence before this court remains unchallenged.”

Justice Ikpeme held that there was nothing before him to show that the claimant was charged with murder.

“I find that by the evidence before me, the claimant has convinced this court that he was never involved in the murder of anybody,” the Chief Judge said.

He held that the publication was, therefore, malicious.

The CJ awarded N8 million damages against the defendants “jointly” for the publication.

He also awarded “exemplary or punitive damages” of N2 million “against the defendants jointly”.

The judgment was delivered on January 23, 2023.

On August 16, 2023, Vintage Press filed a notice of appeal at the Court of Appeal, Calabar Division.

This newspaper’s publishers also applied for a stay of execution.

Otamiri could not be served with the processes because his known counsel declined to accept the papers.

His lawyers, Mba Ukweni & Associates, wrote the Court of Appeal, stating: “We have been served by the bailiff of this court with a motion on notice on the above suit (by Vintage Press) dated August 17, 2023, seeking an order to stay execution of the judgment…

“Be informed that…we have not been briefed by the first respondent (Otamiri) to further represent him…”

The law firm returned the motion papers to the Court of Appeal registry.

Further unsuccessful attempts were made to serve Otamiri with the appeal.

On February 22, 2024, the Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Calabar Judicial Division, Uchechukwu Onyemenam, granted an order for substituted service on Otamiri.

The Notice of the Appeal was subsequently pasted at Otamiri’s last known address and published in this newspaper on March 20.

This newspaper later received a garnishee order nisi made on February 9 by a Rivers State Magistrate Court sitting in Port Harcourt in respect of the N10 million awarded to Otamiri.

The order followed a motion ex-parte filed by counsel for the judgment-creditor, Bruno Mbaeri.

The judgment debtors in the garnishee proceedings are Rivers State Police Command, Rivers Commissioner of Police, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the command Ahmad K. Mohammad and Vintage Press Limited, publishers of The Nation.

Listed as the garnishees are 13 banks.

Chief Magistrate C. G. Ali held: “Garnishee Order Nisi is hereby granted against the garnishees attaching the sum of N10million only or any lesser sum available in the judgment-debtors accounts in the garnishee banks for the satisfaction of the judgment debt in suit no. HC/120/2015 delivered by Hon. Justice Akon. B. Ikpeme on 23rd January 2023 in favour of the judgment-creditor/applicant together with the cost of N200,000 only as the cost of this garnishee proceedings.

“It is ordered that the garnishee banks shall appear before this Honorable Court upon being served with the order nisi to show cause why the judgment-debt and cost of garnishee proceedings or so much available should not be paid to the judgment-creditor/garnishor/applicant for the satisfaction or partial satisfaction of the judgment debt.”

The pending appeal

The garnishee order was made despite the pending appeal by Vintage Press.

The appeal CA/C/232M/2023 was filed on August 16, 2023, by the newspaper’s team of lawyers from Phoenix & Volge LP, including Marc Enamhe, Emmanuel Sani, and others.

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The appellant is contending that the CJ erred by misapplying the law when he stated that the suit was not defended.

It argued that the principle relied on by the judge was faulty.

Vintage Press stated that the judge reached an erroneous conclusion that it abandoned its pleadings by not calling a witness during the trial.

“The learned trial court rightly found that the appellant filed a defence, and cross-examined the plaintiff’s witnesses, and had opted to rely on the evidence elicited thereof,” the appellant stated.

Vintage Press also contends that the CJ erred in law when he failed to deliver the judgment within time.

By delaying the judgment, the appellant said the CJ “apparently lost touch of the evidence elicited in the support of the appellant’s defence,” thereby denying it a fair hearing and occasioning a miscarriage of justice.

On the CJ’s finding that Otamiri was falsely accused of murder, Vintage Press’ lawyers argued that the conclusion was erroneously based on the wrong principle of law and negated the appellant’s defence.

“The evidence on record, particularly the tenor of Exhibit 8 (police document declaring Otamiri wanted), clearly shows that the publication was privileged.

“Qualified privilege is a defence to an untrue publication.

“There is no iota of evidence to substantiate malice on the part of the appellant,” Vintage Press stated.

The appellant further argued that the duty of a publisher to investigate or authenticate information before publication cannot be equated with the standard of investigation carried out by the police or the court.

“Exhibit 8 clearly shows that it was duly signed by the appropriate authority, who was duly appointed to act in the capacity of the police force public relations officer,” the appellant stated.

It added: “There is no pleading or evidence on record to show that the appellant nursed a ‘wrongful intention or desire to harm’ the first respondent.

“There is no pleading or scintilla of evidence to support any inference of malice in respect of the appellant.

“The publication as borne out by Exhibit 8 is a standard form police document (praecipe/format) officially used in the declaration of wanted persons.

“There was no input or analysis made in respect of Exhibit 8 by the appellant.

“The appellant owes a public duty to society to make such publication.

“Exhibit 8 constitutes a publication of an official document of a government agency, and not an opinion, commentary, exposition, finding or publication attributable to the appellant.

“The presumption of regularity of official document inure in respect of Exhibit 8.

“The claimant in the court below woefully failed to discharge the burden of proving malice on the part of the defendant.

“It is trite that he who asserts must prove.

“The learned trial court erroneously shifted the burden of proof on the appellant in that regard.”

Otamiri, Rivers State Police Command, Rivers Commissioner of Police and Mohammad are the respondents in the appeal, which is predicated on seven grounds.

The appellant is claiming that the lower court delivered the judgment out of time on January 23, 2023, after several adjournments and “re-adoption” of final addresses by parties.

It stated that when the substantive matter was adjourned for judgment, it was not ready for delivery due to the trial Chief Judge’s official engagements and health reasons.

“The applicant was not put on notice and was not aware that the judgment was eventually delivered.

“When the applicant counsel got wind of the delivery of the judgment, counsel promptly applied for a certified true copy, and it took several weeks before a copy was handed to counsel by the registrar of the court.

September 24, 2024
A curious defence to murder
- By Ben Ijeoma Adigwe
A curious, weird species of defence to murder has been noticed in the prosecution of crimes in Nigeria. It is better illustrated by going through the cases where it has been presented.

The case of the high government official

A certain top government official was cruising in his cosy car when he had a flat tyre. He was travelling with another fellow. He got out of the car and began the process of changing to his spare tyre.

Suddenly, a taxi drove towards his direction, fully loaded with passengers. Surprisingly, the taxi started driving straight towards him at the wayside.

The top government official moved further away from the road towards the bush by the road. The taxi still went after him and overran him. Quite strangely, the taxi driver was excited at what he saw and therefore killed: a cane rat (grass cutter).

The passengers were all surprised and as the taxi driver got off from the car to carry home his supposed cane rat, behold, it was a human corpse – that of the top government official.

The taxi driver was shocked insisting that what he saw and went after was a Cane rat (grass cutter).

The case of the elderly hunter

An aged hunter some time ago saw a game on a tree. He went immediately for his single-barreled gun, shot and killed the game. It fell down to the ground fatally wounded by bullets from the gun.

But, alas, the hunter discovered to his consternation that it was the corpse of a young boy and not a game he had earlier seen. The man swore that what he saw on top of the tree was a game.

The case of the truck driver

A truck driver was driving along a busy highway. He suddenly saw an antelope in his front. He stepped down his pedals after the supposed bush meat. The antelope sprang into the bush. He diverted a bit into the bush and crushed the antelope. But as he got off his truck to carry his prized antelope it was rather the corpse of a biker and his old motorbike that he saw. He swore that what he saw and killed was an antelope.

A case of Cain and Abel

An aged farmer was in the farm working with his hoe at Issele-Uku. He was weeding his farm. As he worked under the hot sun, he felt like using the toilet. He left his hoe and went to a nearby bush by the farm to ease himself.

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After he finished easing himself and still in his squatting position, he reached out to pluck some leaves with which he intended to clean up his anus.

Coincidentally, his younger brother who was a hunter was coming along the bush path. He was armed with a double-barreled gun. According to his brother’s account, he saw a deer plucking leaves to eat.

He took a fast aim and pulled the trigger. His brother, that is the deer, screamed and gave up the ghost as he was mortally wounded. The hunter was arrested even as he swore that what he saw was a deer.

The case of the bird hunter

In Onah Vs. The State (1977) NSCC Vol. 121, the accused claimed that he shot at a very big bird on top of a palm tree and killed it. As the bird fell to the ground, he discovered the body of the deceased.

He was convicted of manslaughter under Section 317 of the Criminal Code as the Supreme Court held that his mistake in broad daylight of mistaking a human on a palm tree for a bird is indicative of recklessness.

The case of yet another hunter

The facts of the case of Aiguokhian Vs. State (2003) FWLR (Pt. 146) 822, were that the accused was a farmer and a hunter. On July 7, 1993, he went into the bush where he saw what appeared to be a deer. He shot it and when he approached it, he found that it was a human being; in fact, a person he knew so well.

Confused as to what to do, he dismembered parts of the body and buried them so as to present it as if ritual killers actually killed the victim. He was charged, convicted and sentenced to death by hanging. The defence of hallucination was rejected. Also, the defence of witchcraft was rejected.

But in the case of Ihonre Vs. The State (1987) NWLR, Pt 67 pg 778 at 782 it was held that a belief in witchcraft may, if proved, amount to a delusion in which case the criminal responsibility of the accused holding such belief would be based on the law relating to the defence of delusion and not to be simply dismissed as superstitious.

It is opined that in all of such cases, the charge of murder could be sustained because all the elements to be proved to sustain murder are present, to wit:

• Death of victim

• Death arising from accused’s act and

• That accused intended to kill or cause grievous bodily harm.

In Aiguokhian Vs. The State (Supra) and the earlier case of R.V. Nungu 14 WACA 379 it was held that one must be presumed to intend the natural consequence of his acts.

The defence of mistake of fact under section 25 of the Criminal Code cannot contain such a phenomenon because the section requires the belief to be reasonable and it has been held that a belief held in reckless disregard of assurance which a man ought to be able to rely on is not a honest and reasonable belief in the case of Basoyin (1966) NMLR287.

Section 25 of the Criminal Code provides: “A person who does or omits to do an act under an honest and reasonable but mistake belief in the existence of any state of things is not criminally responsible for the act or omission to any greater than if the real state of things had been such as he believe to exist. The operation of this rule may be excluded by the express or implied provisions of the law relating to the subject.”

Definitely, a mistaken belief that a person is a game when he was killed is not an honest and reasonable one.

Also the defense of accident would not avail such a one. Perhaps, the best defense open to such an accused is a partial insane delusion under section 28 of the Criminal Code (i.e. the second paragraph) second 28 of Criminal Code states thus: “A person is not criminally responsible for an act or omission if at the time of doing the act or making the omission he is in such a state of mental disease or natural mental infirmity as to deprive him of capacity to control his actions, or of capacity to know that he ought not to do the act or make the omission.

“A person whose mind, at the time of his doing or omitting to do an act is affected by delusions on some specific matters but who is not otherwise entitled to the benefit of the forgoing provisions of this section, is criminally responsible for the act or omission to the same extent as if the real state of things had been such as he was induced by the delusions to belief to exist.”

It must be stated that such bizarre defences fit into the general native African belief system and emphasis on superstition and the unknown. Most of these cases are “settled” out of court.

•Adigwe (www.benadigwe.com) is a lawyer, poet, chartered mediator/conciliator and author.
September 24, 2024
‘Use of SGBV toll free line for pranks is a criminal offence’
- • Agency renews commitment to addressing scourge
Professor of Law and Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Ayodele Atsenuwa has warned that it is a criminal offence for anyone to misuse the short form codes and toll free lines developed for victims of sexual and domestic violence.

Prof. Atsenuwa stated this while addressing stakeholders at a symposium organised to mark the 10 years of the Lagos Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) titled: Are We Doing Enough? A Consideration of Lagos State’Response to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in The Last Decade held at Marriot Hotel, Joel Ogunnaike Street, GRA, Ikeja.

She said the service, since its launch in January, 2021, with the support of IDEA, the agency has received over 15,481 calls bordering on referral service which enables a toll free line.

She noted that out of the over 15,481 calls, that came through the toll free line, only 1,320 calls bordered on actual cases, “suggesting abuse and misuse of the toll free line

“This is not good as it suggests a waste of resources because those who are at the other side had to deploy resources and work to investigate. This line is not for jokes.”

Prof. Atsenuwa acknowledged that the DSVA, which metamorphosed from Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSRVT) has evolved and delivered on its mandate to protect the vulnerables in the society particularly women and children who are being abused.

Atsenuwa, who highlighted some of the initiatives of the agency towards ensuring adequate enlightenment of the residents on the menace, acknowledged the critical role played by women in the past to engender the right to be protected, stressing that the state government’s interventions had raised the bar of understanding the problems and solutions were proffered.

She, however, called for the sustainability of the system by expanding its capacity that will be hinged on government and public collaborations.

DSVA Executive Secretary, Mrs Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, said that the agency has provided services to over 6,333 survivors since establishment 10 years ago.

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She said the agency now attend to about 300 new cases monthly adding “this is a testament to the fact that there is increased faith in the system, that people are becoming more aware of support services that exist that they take advantage of.”

Mrs Vivour-Adeniyi said the agency was able to record this feat because it has people serving as mandated reporters, whistle blowers, and for the fact that “now people see something, say something and ensure that something is done.’’

She assured stakeholders of its renewed commitment to addressing sexual violence, by ensuring prevention of the menace in the State,

Mrs Vivour-Adeniyi noted that Lagos State, being a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, faces unique challenges in addressing domestic and sexual violence.

She said the growing population and rapid urbanisation have created pressures that can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities.

She said that over the last 10 years, the agency has been breaking the culture of silence gradually and that this is evident by the virtue of increase in formal and informal reporting of cases.

She acknowledged the fact that Lagos State, as a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, faces unique challenges in addressing domestic and sexual violence.

“Our growing population and rapid urbanisation have created pressures that can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. However, we are also a city with a strong tradition of community engagement and a commitment to social justice.”

She, however, assured stakeholders of her agency’s renewed commitment to addressing the issue of Sexual Violence, particularly by ensuring prevention of the menace in the state.

This assurance comes as the agency marks its ten years of unwavering efforts of responding to the case of Sexual and Gender Based Violence in Lagos.

The symposium, was organized with the support of the Rule of Law and Anti corruption RoLAC, funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, was organized to review the effectiveness of the Lagos State government’s efforts in the last decade to effectively address SGBV.

Mrs Vivour-Adeniyi said that the event was also organised to reflect on the progress made so far in tackling the scourge, note the challenges, and take prompt and proactive measures for the future.

She noted that domestic and sexual violence thrive in the society because they are crimes perpetrated behind closed doors adding that such crimes violate the fundamental rights of individuals and stressed why efforts must be geared towards breaking the culture of silence and create a safe and supportive environment for survivors.

She commended the government of Babajide Sanwo-Olu in the state which she said has over the last ten years, continued to demonstrate its commitment to combating all forms of sexual and gender-based violence through the enactment of relevant laws, formulation of policies and creation of institutions and this, she said the State will continue to foster on in the coming years.

“Yes, we had made progress. Yes, We are gradually breaking the culture of silence but a lot remains undone. But we are confident that with political will and the support of Mr Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the entire Lagos State government, we know we would reduce this menace to the barest minimum by ensuring that survivors have access to holistic support and perpetrators are held accountable for their actions”:, she assured.

“This symposium provides a valuable platform for us to discuss the root causes of domestic and sexual violence, explore effective prevention strategies, and enhance our response mechanisms. By sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practices, we can strengthen our collective efforts to combat these crimes and create a more just and compassionate society.

“As we reflect on our achievements, we must also ask ourselves the difficult questions: Are we doing enough? What more can we do to ensure that every survivor of sexual and gender-based violence is heard, supported, and receives justice? How can we work together more effectively to prevent violence before it occurs?” she said

She added that the goal of the symposium is to formulate actionable strategies that will enhance the State’s prevention and response to SGBV in the years to come.

Answering questions from journalists, Mrs Vivour-Adniyi contended that there has been direct correlation between heightened awareness and increase in reporting.

“If you look at what happened last year when we commemorated the Domestic and Sexual violence Awareness month, in September, we recorded over 403 cases. That had never happened since the history of DSVRT and we know that it was because of the increase in awareness and advocacy, sensitization and enlightenment campaign that we did in September that led to that spike.

“So we had seen that when we heightened awareness, when we continue to talk about these issues in different for a, we would see people engaging with the system, we see people calling the toll line, we would see people reaching out to us on the social media, and more people coming to the offices to report cases.”

On the volumes of calls received, she explained that tt was a combination of prank calls and non SGBV cases

“Some people would call us and report landlord and tenant disputes. So cases that are not SGBV are not captured in our case management .”

She disclosed that the agency also get cases outside Lagos.

“We get cases from FCT, Ogun state, Edo, Ondo because it is a national issue and because it is a national line, that is why we thought it expedient to refer to our sister agencies in the state.”

Lagos State Chief Judge, Justice Kazeem Alogba who was represented by Justice Hakeem Oshodi, in a goodwill message his pledged his commitment to uphold the rule of law and to protect the rights of all citizens, particularly the vulnerable in the society in order to continue to inspire the trust of all citizens in the judiciary.

“As we strive for impartiality, fairness and truth, may your work evoke justice and peace in the society. The honourable Chief Judge thanked all of you especially those channeling this cause, the DSVA, the Police, the NGOs, religious bodies for their untiring efforts to bequeath a just and equitable society to all.”

Founder, Women at Risk International Foundation (WRIF), Dr Kemi DaSilva-Ibru commended the steps taken by the agency, increase in creating awareness to address the menace and ensuring justice for survivors.

Mrs DaSilva-Ibru stressed the need for all stakeholders to remain vigilant in their operations and activities stressing, “it is by remaining vigilant that we can ensure women are free from this scourge in the state.”

The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Adegoke Fayoade commended efforts by various organization especially the DSVA to arrest and curtail the scourge, SGBV that continue to affect vulnerable population, particularly women and children,

AIG Adegoke noted that Lagos State has over the last ten years taken up the fight to curtail SGBV frontally through the establishment of various forms of advocacy, initiatives and systems aimed at supporting initiatives that would ensure justice and maintain the culture zero tolerance for the scourge stressing that this reflect a deep commitment to creating a safer environment for the people.

He said the symposium offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders, policy makers and advocates to explore areas of improvement to ensure successes in the fight against the scourge.

“by coming together to share knowledge, areas of improvement, would strengthen the resolve to create a future where every individual, regardless of status, would be assured of the protection of their dignity.”

He said these efforts are commendable for creating a safer environment for the people.
September 24, 2024
Olawuyi seeks support for media to drive sustainablity awareness

International law expert and global vice chair of the International Law Association, Prof. Damilola Olawuyi (SAN) has called for increased financial and technical support for media practitioners in Africa.

This is to enable the media to effectively play their crucial roles of driving public discourse and awareness on all aspects of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Olawuyi, who is also UNESCO Chair on Environmental Law and Sustainable Development HBKU, made these remarks while delivering a lecture at the Hiwar Scholars Seminar held at Northwestern University, in Doha, Qatar (NUQ).

The theme was: Climate and Sustainability Reporting in Africa: The Role of the Media, the event brought together academics, students and stakeholders in media who converged under the aegis of NUQ’s Hiwar Speaker Series.”

The opening remarks featured the associate dean for faculty affairs at NUQ, Professor Zachary Wright, while the session was moderated by the chairperson of the Africana studies minor at NUQ, Professor James Michael Hodapp.

Also in attendance was Dean Susan L. Karamanian of the Hamad bin Khalifa University law college.

Olawuyi, who is also Deputy Vice Chancellor, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), emphasied the role of the media in promoting public awareness on sustainablity.

Prof. Olawuyi noted: “The media has significant power and skills to educate and create awareness on climate change and the SDGs; shape and maintain public discourse on sustainability; influence consumer choices through climate-aligned advertising; empower the public to understand their environmental rights; and most importantly serve as public watchdog and gatekeepers by shining the spotlight on success stories, while highlighting those that are often left behind, especially women, youth, indigenous and other vulnerable groups amongst others.

“ However, lack of financial resources, limited support for capacity development and the constant fear of reprisals continue to serve as hinderance to active climate and sustainability-aligned media reporting in many parts of Africa.”

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Olawuyi emphasised the need for international solidarity and development support, through targeted financial empowerment and reskilling initiatives that will empower African media practitioners to actively drive sustainablity focused reporting.

Olawuyi also called on media practitioners to seize the momentum of the ongoing efforts to accelerate the SDGs, by using effective language, methods and channels of communication, both traditional and social media, to engage diverse African audiences on sustainability and climate action.

While also presenting findings from his latest book titled Net Zero and Natural Resources Law, published by Oxford University Press, Olawuyi called for concerted efforts to support media practitoners across Africa to be able to positively shape the narrative and highlight Africa’s success stories on sustainablity and net zero transition.

He noted that this new book outlines the risk mitigation strategies and contractual techniques – focusing on net-zero and climate aligned sustainability reporting, financing, green procurement, climate-smart infrastructure development, transparent climate disclosures and reporting, gender justice, and other sustainability safeguards — that are required to ensure a just and inclusive energy transition.

September 24, 2024
Lawyer seeks restructuring of school system in Lagos
- By Sufiat Ibrahim
The Convener of Duty Solicitors Network (DSN), Bayo Akinlade, has suggested a restructuring of the school system in Lagos State.

It followed the changes effected in the working hours of public servants in the state.

As schools resumed from long vacation, Akinlade is asking whether government will increase school hours and decrease number of days schools would open per week.

The lawyer, who is also an Advocate for Good Governance, raised five issues for determination by the Lagos State government.

He said these issues have become imperative and needed to be addressed.

The statement said: “With the economic hardship caused by the deregulation in the oil sector, everyone has been made to adjust while clamouring for increases in salaries.

“The Nigerian government has responded to these issues by increasing minimum wage, reviewing salary structures and reducing work days for civil servants.

“Now that schools have resumed, it seems that our challenges have only increased.

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“Will school teachers be required to work five days a week while their civil servant counterparts in Lagos enjoy two free work days?

“Will our wards in public schools be required to pay more for transportation to their schools or will the government in Lagos and other parts devise a way of making it easier for parents to send their wards to school.

“Will government support by providing dedicated free or subsidised transportation for students and our teachers?

“Will government come up with a policy that increases the school hours and reduce the school days? (School hours can be increased from 9am to 5pm each day for 3 days a week sessions so students and teachers are only in class 3 days a week as opposed to 5 days a week).”

“What is the education policy plan in light of the economic challenges?

We cannot afford to compromise our education sector, we have to make it better and keep our wards off the streets,” he stated.
September 24, 2024
NIS to crack down on illegal immigrants

Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has vowed to go tough on illegal and undocumented immigrants in Niger State.

Niger Controller, Shehu Musa Ya’u, directed them to leave or face the full wrath of the law.

He spoke with The Nation after receiving an award from the Chairman of Paikoro Local Government Area, Umaru Aminu.

He said tightening the borders from illegal immigrants is part of the strategies being deployed to reduce insecurity.

“We have been meeting with other security agencies and we will continue to do that and we will make our input.

“The issue of security is a collective responsibility. We are determined to increase our scrutiny of illegal immigrants and increase awareness of this issue.

“This is because it is those who come into the country without proper documentation that cause trouble for us.

“We need the people to be aware of this, that those who go in and out of any community should be scrutinised before they are accepted,” he said.

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On the processing of international passports, Ya’u said the command has been allocated booklets to enable speedy processing.

“We are assuring everyone that if you come to Minna for your passport, you will get it that same day after your registration and biometrics, that is an assurance.

“Part of what the Controller General has done is the speedy distribution of allocated passport booklets to the states,” Ya’u said.

The Niger Controller dedicated the award to the NIS Controller General, saying that she has placed a lot of strategies in place to ensure that the institution is positioned to serve Nigerians better.

“The Controller General has embarked in training and retraining of the men and officers of the Service to ensure that they are better equipped in servicing the people.

“She has also facilitated the implementation of the arrears of the 28 days allowance which was not promptly paid in the past,” he said.

Chairman of Paikoro LGA, Umaru Aminu, applauded the security agencies for their resilience in reducing insecurity in the LGA, assuring them of the council’s support.

Aminu said the council honoured Ya’u because of his “impeccable character and high level of integrity”.

September 24, 2024
‘Insolvency, restructuring potential tools for business regeneration, growth’

Insolvency and restructuring are potential tools for business regeneration and growth, the Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN) has said.

It noted that in a challenging economic landscape, many businesses are facing unprecedented hurdles that threaten their sustainability, growth and existence, with many having gone out of business.

In the circumstance, the role of the insolvency practitioner has become “a most crucial one”, the association said.

BRIPAN noted that through its Annual International Conference, it offers the opportunity for the insolvency practitioner to retool and deliver value across the board.

Chairman of the 2024 Conference Planning Committee, Mr Albert Folorunsho, said BRIPAN is an association of professionals who help underperforming businesses get back to profitability using the tools of restructuring and insolvency.

“Every year, BRIPAN through its conference gathers leading experts, thought leaders, industry practitioners, regulators, judicial officers and stakeholders for practical discussions and take-aways on its conference theme.

“This is the 10th edition and the theme is: ‘Restructuring and Insolvency in Times of Economic Challenges.”

The conference will be held at the MUSON Center, Onikan Lagos on September 26 and 27 at 9 am.

Folorunsho, Vice President of BRIPAN, described the theme as timely considering the economic challenging times.

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He said: “In the light of the current economic challenging climate, it may seem counterintuitive to discuss insolvency and restructuring as potential tools for business regeneration and growth.

“However, we believe that understanding and strategically leveraging on the tools of insolvency and restructuring can lead to significant opportunities for businesses, as insolvency allows underperforming businesses to restructure.”

He said the conference will consist of four sessions that cater to businesses, insolvency practitioners, developments in the Nigerian insolvency regime and global trends and best practices in economic challenging times.

Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Hussaini Ishaq Magaji (SAN), is expected to give the keynote address.

Among the session topics is ‘Industry Specific Perspectives,’ which will focus on industry-specific challenges and considerations in navigating insolvency in times of economic challenges, particularly in the construction, manufacturing, aviation and financial services sectors.

One of the sessions will focus on global developments shaping the corporate restructuring and insolvency landscape and the judiciary’s responsibility in effective coordination in cross-border insolvency proceedings and manoeuvring legal liabilities that arise.

“Session 3, Day 2 will beam its searchlight on the ongoing statutory reforms and insolvency practices, as well as an accounting view on efficient valuation in the restructuring and insolvency process.

“The last session of the conference would bring on board critical stakeholders like the judges to discuss the various ways in which commercial stakeholders management and judicial decisions impact on the ability to rescue or at least achieve an efficient orderly collective resolution of matters pertaining to insolvent businesses.

“The solutions proffered by the speakers can be adapted into other sector situations and areas for optimal results.

“In BRIPAN, we maintain insolvency and restructuring is the way forward for businesses to remain in business,” the Vice President added.

September 24, 2024
Gender summit 2024: Group advocates women empowerment

Eden Venture Group, a member of the WEE Policy Catalyst Fund led by Albright Stonebridge Group (ASG), played a key role at the recently held Gender and Inclusion Summit 2024 (GS24) in Abuja by the Policy Innovation Centre.

The event tagged #WEEliftNaija initiative, spearheaded by EDEN at the summit themed: “Reimagining Gender Inclusive Pathways and Partnerships for Poverty Reduction.”

It explored critical strategies for empowering women across Nigeria.

Hosted through an interactive session, the initiative engaged attendees in discussions on how the WEE policy addresses economic inequality.

The stakeholders used the platform to call for accelerated domestication of the WEE policy across Nigeria’s 36 states.

The keynote address by Greta Bull, Director of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, was one of the highlights of the event.

While praising Nigeria’s new WEE policy, Bull stressed the urgency of its nationwide implementation to close gender gaps in economic participation.

“The WEE policy is a strong blueprint for lifting Nigerian women and girls in sectors like agriculture, entrepreneurship, and emerging industries,” she stated.

Another key moment was the fireside chat led by Rinmicit Temlong, Gender Lead, Albright Stonebridge Group (ASG), which featured the First Lady of Kwara State and Chair of the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum (NGSF), Ambassador Professor Olufolake Abdulrazaq.

She pointed out Kwara State’s pioneering efforts in implementing empowerment programmes for women ahead of the domestication, citing success stories in women’s leadership and financial independence plans empowering thousands of women.

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“We’ve launched social investment programmes, providing funds to over 10-20 thousand women, helping them actively participate in the state’s economy and demonstrating ongoing WEE implementation,” Abdulrazaq said.

The Minister for Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, in her address said there is need to know how the different policies are empowering women.

“We need to map the impact as to how different initiatives, programmes and policies really impact women and that way we have a mapping structure as to where we need to concentrate to continue to empower women,” Musawa submitted.

Speaking during the session, “Communicate to Activate: Transforming Policy into Progress” at the event, Fifehan Osikanlu, Founder/CEO of Eden Venture Group, said: “We’re collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs to ensure this policy is domesticated across states, driving financial inclusion and gender-responsive budgeting, among other key issues.

”Contributing to the conversation, Folu Storms, a media personality and WEE champion, encouraged men to support gender equality actively.

“Feminism isn’t a dirty word,” she said, adding: “empowering women benefits everyone, including men.”

September 24, 2024
Carpenter, conductor discharged of illegal gun possession

Justice Serifat Sonaike of a Lagos High Court sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) had discharged two men of the offence of unlawful possession of locally made gun and membership unlawful society after three years of awaiting trial.

The suspects included a capenter Bashiru Shitta and a bus conductor, Abiodun Benson, regained freedom last Wednesday. September 18, 2024.

They were arrested from their homes in Ikorodu to face trial for the alleged offences.

The suspects regained their freedom following an application moved by a Deputy Director of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON), Mrs Grace Adenubi.

The defendants who were remanded at Kirikiri Medium Correctional Center in 2021 were eventually arraigned before the court in March 2023 in Charge No. ID/195746/22 immediately after the case was refered to LACON.

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All through trial the prosecution couldn’t produce any witness in court despite several adjournment at their instance.

The defendants maintained that they were innocent of the offence for which they were charged while

the main culprit had long been bailed even before they were arraigned.

Mrs Adenubi, pursuant to an application, applied for striking out of the case for want of diligent prosecution.

After several adjournment, the court granted their prayer and struck out the charge.

Reacting to the decision of the court, Mrs Adenubi said the young men have been counselled and adminished to be of good behavior henceforth.

September 24, 2024
Businessman sues CSP for N20m over unlawful detention

Anambra-based businessman, Tochukwu Nwosu, has sued a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Ifeanyi Iburu over unlawful arrest and detention.

In the suit filed at the High Court of Anambra State sitting in Awka, the plaintiff demanded compensation of N20 million for the violation of his fundamental rights to freedom.

Nwosu, through his counsel from Joe O. Eze and Associates, was arrested on September 4, 2024, at 10 am at Kamali Phase III, behind Dubai Estate, Awka, without any justifiable reason.

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He was detained inside the cell of the Police Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, from 10 am to 10 pm, further infringing on his rights.

Describing his arrest and detention as a breach of his fundamental rights as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution, the plaintiff accused the respondent of abusing his power.

“We pray the court to declare the arrest and detention unlawful and award N20 million in compensation to Nwosu for the damages suffered,” Nwosu prayed.

September 24, 2024