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Tag: Fagbemi

  • Fagbemi seeks enhanced deployment of technology for court operations

    Fagbemi seeks enhanced deployment of technology for court operations

    The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has advocated the need for enhanced deployment of technology for court operations to improve the pace of justice delivery.

    “I wish to draw your attention to the need for us to embrace the use of technology in the day-to-day administration of justice. 

    “The need to incorporate efficient use of technology into processes, systems and procedures for the advancement of the administration of criminal justice cannot be overemphasized,” Fagbemi said.

    He spoke in Abuja on Tuesday at the opening session of a three-day review and validation session of the National Minimum Standards (NMS) Document and the inauguration of the National Working Committee for the Implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 and Administration of Criminal Justice Laws (ACJLs) across our states.

    Fagbemi, represented by the Solicitor General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba identified some other challenges hindering effective justice delivery in the country.

    Read Also: Nigeria reaffirms commitment to OACPS, strengthens global partnerships

    He noted that “another critical area that deserves attention is the issue of the availability of accessible data in our criminal justice system. 

    “Under the ACJA/ACJLs, provisions have been made for the collection of data, periodic reporting of data to the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) and Attorneys General. However, this has been poorly implemented. 

    “It is clear that we cannot have an effective criminal justice system without accurate data which will drive planning and aid administration of Justice,” he said.

    Fagbemi tasked members of the National Working Committee, which was inaugurated on Tuesday to work very hard to ensure that the terms of reference of their engagement are actualized, particularly to address pertinent issues militating against harmonized  implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act as well as issues that affect the rights of individuals, such as the issue of persistent congestion of correctional centres in Nigeria. 

    He added: “With concerted efforts of stakeholders, it is my hope that members will be able to deliberate and come up with pragmatic and innovative solutions to address these problems.”

    The Director, Administration  of Criminal Justice and Reforms at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Leticia Ayoola-Daniels noted that despite the enactment of the ACJA by both the Federal and state governments, the criminal justice system still suffers some challenges.

    Mrs. Ayoola-Daniels noted that  the  challenges  experienced by the states and the Federal Government’s remain the same, which includes court congestion , unavailability of data,  delayed trials and a lack of uniformity in criminal justice processes. 

    She added: “This is why we are gathered here today, to finalize a document that will not only serve as a standard template across jurisdictions but also drive uniformity and efficiency in the implementation of these laws.

    “This initiative stemmed from the growing need for a unified framework that would address the persistent gaps in the implementation of the ACJA and ACJLs across the country.”

    She explained that the National Working Committee “will play a crucial role in ensuring that these standards are adhered to, that best practices are shared, and that progress is continuously monitored and reviewed to meet the objectives of the establishment of the National Minimum Standards.”

  • Verdict: Those speaking ill of Nigeria shouldn’t lead it, says Fagbemi

    Verdict: Those speaking ill of Nigeria shouldn’t lead it, says Fagbemi

    The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has said those who speak ill of the country to settle perceived political scores should not be allowed to lead it.

    Fagbemi expressed concern that some people claiming to be Nigerians have been denigrating the country at every opportunity due to political differences.

    He said: “We must also be careful of what we say about our country. Political differences should not make us de-market our country on the international stage. Only unpatriotic citizens or leaders would choose to do so.

    “Those who speak ill of their country to settle political differences should never have the opportunity to lead the same country at any stage.

    “This government has demonstrated responsible leadership by allowing freedom of expression and will continue to do so,” he said.

    Fagbemi spoke yesterday in Abuja at the Abuja Social Media Summit with the theme: Harnessing the Power of Social Media for National Development.

    Read Also: Shettima calls for inter-agency collaboration to drive Tinubu’s agenda

    The AGF, who was represented by his spokesman, Kamarudeen Ogundele, assured the citizens that the Federal Government would continue to ensure the protection of citizens’ right to freedom of expression, as guaranteed by the Constitution.

    He said: “We must realise the need for us to at all times demonstrate responsible citizenship, while this government has continued to provide responsible leadership through many social safety nets it has provided over time.

    “Just as they say that the social media neither sleeps nor slumbers, we must watch our word! Weigh it before you utter it. For, once uttered, it cannot be retrieved.

    “No individual should use his freedom of speech on social media to infringe upon the rights of another, as it is fast becoming the order of the day.”

  • ‘Those speaking ill of Nigeria shouldn’t lead it’ – Fagbemi

    ‘Those speaking ill of Nigeria shouldn’t lead it’ – Fagbemi

    The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has argued that people who speak ill of the country in their efforts to settle perceived political scores should not be allowed to lead the country.

    Fagbemi expressed concern that some individuals, who claim to be Nigerians, have developed the habit of denigrating the country at every opportunity due to political differences.

    The AGF said: “We must also be careful of what we say about our country. Political differences should not make us de-market our country on the international stage. Only unpatriotic citizens or leaders will choose to do so.

    “Those who speak ill of their country to settle political differences should never have the opportunity to lead the same country at any stage.

    “This government has demonstrated responsible leadership by allowing freedom of expression and will continue to do so,” he said.

    Fagbemi spoke in Abuja on Wednesday, September 18, at an event tagged: “Abuja Social Media Summit,” with the theme: “Harnessing the Power of Social Media for National Development.”

    Read Also: FG will not tolerate subversive activities, says AGF Fagbemi

    The AGF, who was represented by his spokesman, Kamarudeen Ogundele, assured that the Federal Government will continue to ensure the protection of citizens’ right to freedom of expression as guaranteed by the Constitution.

    He, however, cautioned that “we must realise the need for us to at all times demonstrate responsible citizenship while this government has continued to provide responsible leadership through many social safety nets it has provided over time.

    “Just as they say that social media neither sleeps nor slumbers, we must watch our word! Weigh it before you utter it. For, once uttered, it cannot be retrieved.

    “No individual should use his freedom of speech on social media to infringe upon the rights of another as it is fast becoming the order of the day.

    “Harnessing the power of social media for national development involves leveraging social media platforms to promote economic growth, improve governance, enhance civic engagement, and foster societal progress.

    “For emphasis, with all the advantages of social media are the attendant challenges and limitations which include digital divide and inequality, misinformation and disinformation, cybersecurity threats, and privacy concerns.

    “To overcome these challenges, governments, civil society, and private sector stakeholders must work together to create an enabling environment for social media-driven national development.

    “What this suggests is that all hands must be on deck in efforts to transform Nigeria into a greater nation devoid of bickering.

    “The government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to leading the country out of the woods.

    “Various reforms and policy directions are being introduced in all strata of our national life which require the support of all Nigerians,” Fagbemi said.

  • Is Fagbemi Sending a Message to Olukoyede?

    Is Fagbemi Sending a Message to Olukoyede?

    On Monday in Abuja, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), made a statement that should, under normal circumstances, uplift the hearts of Nigerians. For the first time in many years, something refreshingly different emerged from a critical Ministry often associated with judicial twists, turns, and habitual filing of nolle prosequi in high-profile cases involving politically exposed individuals caught brazenly stealing from public coffers. It was therefore heartening to read that Fagbemi, in his keynote address at a roundtable organised by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), advocated for a constitutional review. His proposal aimed to ensure that those convicted of corruption and grand larceny would be denied the benefits of state pardon, formally known as the Prerogative of Mercy.

    Those familiar with the impunity with which people in high places loot the public treasury in this country—and the confidence they exude in escaping accountability—would appreciate why Fagbemi’s proposal is vital to curbing systemic corruption. Unless we choose self-deception, the lenient penalties handed down to convicted state actors have emboldened many, both in the public and private sectors, to embrace corruption as the norm. This culture of impunity is further reinforced by the belief that individuals who have stolen large sums can employ the services of the Ministry of Justice to have their cases dismissed—whether by omission or commission. References abound to numerous cases that were either abruptly dismissed or terminated by the Office of the Attorney General since May 29, 1999, when Nigeria embarked on another democratic journey.

    Fagbemi argued that denying corrupt individuals state pardon would serve as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to enrich themselves through illicit means. He further outlined several reasons why this step is imperative if the country is genuinely committed to tackling corruption or, at the very least, stemming its destructive spread. Highlighting how inadequate or subpar investigations by bodies like the ICPC, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have compromised the prosecution of offenders, Fagbemi urged these agencies to arm themselves with irrefutable evidence before summoning suspects for interrogation. In essence, Fagbemi was pleading with anti-corruption bodies to save the government and the nation from the embarrassment of watching suspects walk free due to poor investigative practices.

    Moreover, there are suspicions—although unproven—that some officials within these agencies deliberately sabotage investigations after being bribed, allowing culprits to evade justice due to insufficient evidence. Indeed, in recent times, the Nigerian media has been flooded with judicial pronouncements freeing suspects accused of embezzling billions due to prosecutorial inefficiencies. In sum, Fagbemi’s message to the heads of these anti-corruption agencies is clear: there can be no accolades for those who allow financial criminals to become heroes in a system that is meant to clip their wings and promote transparency as a national value.

    In a series of remarks, Fagbemi’s spokesperson, Kamal Ogundele, stated that his boss “advised the Attorney Generals (AGs) in the 36 states of the Federation to avoid nepotism, political witch-hunting, rivalry, and bigotry in the fight against corruption, especially in their efforts to appease governors. He also emphasized that corruption should never be rationalised or excused. Their legal opinions should be grounded in the facts, as is practiced in advanced nations. Public sentiment should not sway decisions. In Nigeria, we are polarized along political lines. The AGF urged participants and anti-graft agencies to conduct thorough investigations before arresting suspects to avoid media trials. Let us be meticulous and patient before inviting someone for questioning. Don’t rush the process and then boast of catching a big fish. If you catch just two or three big fish in a year and you are thorough, that’s enough.”

    Ogundele further noted that Fagbemi also cautioned against filing exaggerated charges, saying, “No one needs a 50-count charge. Keep it to five or six, but be sure of them. Make sure you get the suspect.”

    Although the event was organised by the ICPC, Fagbemi’s comments could well have been directed at the EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, and his team of ‘professional investigators,’ who seem to have turned media trials into a routine, leaving suspects to enjoy their spoils afterward. Fagbemi’s warning against filing numerous charges without solid prosecutorial backing should resonate with both the EFCC and ICPC. It is concerning that most cases brought against those who habitually loot the public treasury often end in favour of the defendants. Therefore, when Fagbemi stressed the importance of thorough investigations over media prosecutions, the EFCC naturally came to mind. However, it must be acknowledged that this issue didn’t begin with Olukoyede’s tenure.

    Some years ago, when Ibrahim Magu was the anti-corruption czar, I cautioned him during an interaction with Editors in Abuja to avoid parading suspects before the media. My concern was prompted by a personal experience when Magu interrogated a colleague and I over a story published in this newspaper. His demeanour during that encounter reinforced my belief that caution was necessary. Ironically, Magu himself later became a victim of media trial when he fell out of favour with those who had elevated him to power. His tenure remains unique as he is the only EFCC Chairman who was never confirmed by the National Assembly, despite the legal requirement for such approval. Today, the story about the rise and fall of Magu is shrouded in a haze of confusion as the public is saturated with different stories surrounding his removal. Such is the travesty of justice even among those who are expected to live above the ruckus in the coven of corrupt elements. As a matter of fact, hardly can one point to any past chairman of that agency that did not depart in a blaze of controversy right from the time when the present National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, was pushed out of the saddle by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua.

    Returning to the present, in April of this year, Olukoyede expressed his frustration with former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, for repeatedly ignoring EFCC summons to account for his handling of billions of naira under his care. Despite the EFCC’s detailed allegations of how Bello diverted public funds to finance an extravagant lifestyle, he remains a fugitive. Frustrated by Bello’s evasive tactics, Olukoyede vowed to resign if he failed to prosecute Bello successfully. It was that serious that Olukoyede would rather leave his top job than allow an alleged common pen robber to rubbish his reputation built over many years as a prosecutorial lawyer. We were told that the stellar record contained in his Curriculum Vitae played a major role in convincing the President that he was the man for the job of chasing, capturing and prosecuting these unarmed but economically ruinous thieves in the system.

    Read Also: Judgment on local government autonomy not a wasted effort, says AGF Fagbemi

    And so, knowing that Yahaya Bello’s matter was a test case with a potential to give the general public an inkling into Olukoyede’s firmness or otherwise in handling such high profile cases that are bound to come his way, it was not surprising that an exasperated EFCC chairman boasted before a gathering of journalists that  he would throw in the towel and abdicate his responsibilities as the nation’s Number One anti-corruption czar should he fail to successfully prosecute Bello and make him pay for the sleaze he perpetuated in Kogi State.  “If I do not personally oversee the completion of the investigation regarding Yahaya Bello, I will tender my resignation as the chairman of the EFCC”, Olukoyede was quoted as saying that fateful Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Of course, his anger was sparked by the shameful drama that played out when his operatives laid siege on Bello’s house in Abuja but failed to capture him as the present Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, allegedly came with armed men and squirreled Bello to safety. Since then, neither the EFCC, the courts or the government has seen Bello in the public. He has simply vamoosed into thin air, enjoying his loot as they say.

    Six months have now passed since Olukoyede made that promise, and the public is growing impatient. Many are questioning his competence and calling on him to back his words with action. They want to know when Yahaya Bello will finally face justice. In case Olukoyede didn’t know or his men have not brought it to his notice, the public is already asking question about his competence in handling the job President Bola Ahmed Tinubu tasked him with accomplishing with a stellar outcome.

    They are asking him to walk his talk and Bello’s case should be the starting point. After the media trial of Bello and the revelations about how he wasted money on practically everything and anything as if he had a money minting machine in Lord Lugard’s House, Kogi, the question on the people’s mind is: when will Yahaya Bello appear in court to face charges? Is he still in the country or has someone used the state apparatchik to crate him to somewhere beyond the microscopic lens of the EFCC and the slow winding judicial grill? Will he ever have his day in court to defend the famed integrity that he claims to uphold in all his dealings? Will Bello eventually snigger at the incompetence embedded in a prosecutorial system that barks without having the capacity to bite? Will Bello join the ranks of those protected by perpetual injunctions, or will Olukoyede succeed in bringing him to court?

    In a previous article, I cautioned Olukoyede to be wary of sophisticated criminals like Bello who know how to exploit legal loopholes to avoid punishment. Like Fagbemi, I argued that a watertight case is necessary for successful prosecution, not media grandstanding. Nigerians are tired of the circus surrounding high-profile corruption cases, and the EFCC must prove it can deliver justice. This, to me, is the crux of Fagbemi’s keynote address. Diligent prosecution is key to fighting corrosive corruption. Crime will naturally reduce when culprits are made to pay heavily for their actions. That is how deterrence works.

    What more can be said? Fagbemi’s remarks should serve as a wake-up call to those tasked with bringing corrupt officials to justice. The failures of the past have been detrimental to the nation’s well-being, and it is time for a new approach. While Fagbemi’s proposal to deny state pardon to corrupt individuals is commendable, the reality is that many cases never even reach that stage. It is up to Olukoyede and others in the justice system to rise to the occasion and put an end to the endless circus that allow criminals to evade justice.

    Will the EFCC finally bring Bello to account? As usual, we wait.

  • FG will not tolerate subversive activities, says AGF Fagbemi

    FG will not tolerate subversive activities, says AGF Fagbemi

    The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, (SAN), stated on Thursday the Federal Government was unwilling to tolerate any subversive activities under whatever guise, capable of undermining the nation’s democratically elected government.

    Fagbemi noted that although the Federal Government was committed to promoting and upholding the fundamental rights of all citizens, it will not tolerate any infraction or breach of same rights by any person or organization under any guise, except as allowed by the Constitution.

    The AGF spoke in Abuja at the valedictory court session in honour of the retiring Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who retired on August 22 on the attainment the mandatory retirement age of 70 years.

    Fagbemi said the present administration at the federal level has a clear mandate of the people, and can only be changed at the end its tenure as provided I the Constitution.

    He added that any other mode or attempt to change a democratically elected government, except as provided by the Constitution, is nothing but a clear case of treason and subversion of democratic governance.

    The AGF said that the laws of the land have made copious provisions on how to deal with treasonable acts, stressing that the full wrath of the law will catch up with such treasonable felony.

    Fagbemi said: “The government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu shall at all times protects and promotes the rights of all Nigerians and shall not tolerate any infraction and or breach of same by any person(s) and agencies under any guise whatsoever except as provided by the country’s Constitution.

    “It is also pertinent to state that constitutional democracy and Governance has laid out its peculiar features and attributes.

    “I must restate that elective and legitimate governments entrusted with the mandates of the people can only be changed constitutionally and legally by the electorate at the end of its term of office as prescribed by our laws and the Constitution of the country which is the ground norm.

    “Any other mode or means of attempting to change a democratically elected government except as provided by our laws and the Constitution is nothing but a clear case of treason and subversion of democratic governance.

    “The laws of our land as well as the Constitution have made copious provisions for dealing with same and bringing the full weight of the laws on such treasonable felons.”

    The AGF assured that the Federal Government was irrevocably committed to massively changing the course of narratives within the country’s justice sector.

    He noted that with the various reform measures being put in place by the present administration, the justice sector will be given a place of pride it deserves.

    The AGF added the federal government will eradicate all forms of obstacles militating against the modernization, effectiveness and efficiency of the justice sector.

    He added that with the recent 300 percent salary increment for judicial officers, the efforts of government will enhance and promote the Judiciary as the last hope of the common man.

    Fagbemi thanked the Supreme Court for rescuing Local Governments in Nigeria from the claws of governors in the area of financial autonomy.

    He urged Attorneys General of the 36 states to advise their various governors to obey the judgment of the Supreme Court on the financial autonomy for Local Government Areas in Nigeria.

    The AGF added: “We are not unaware of the threats and noises of reprisal by some (not all) of the principalities affected by that epic and locus classicus judgement of the Supreme Court who are threatening fire and brimstone in a matter that has been settled and laid to rest finally by our apex court.

    “The point must be made that their action in this regard amounts to hoovering round the precinct of contempt of court.

    “I urge the Attorneys- General of the affected states to educate and offer sound legal advice, even though very trite and too elementary, to their principals that there can be no appeal against the decision of the Supreme Court.

    “They should therefore abide by the principles and the doctrines of the rule of law which is the bedrock of Constitutional democracy.

    “We have no doubt or illusion that our country shall now witness a new dawn and era of purposeful governance across all our 774 local governments.

    “We urge and appeal to all citizens of this country, professional bodies and associations to be alert and watchful of how the local government are utilizing their allocations for growth and development.

    “Our law enforcement agencies too must also monitor all governments and bring the full weight of the laws to bear on any erring government, ministries, departments and or agencies in confirmed cases of misappropriation and or embezzlement, particularly for those who don’t have immunities under the Constitution like our democratically elected local government executives, officers and personnel.”

    Fagbemi said: “The Federal Government under the able leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is very much aware and conscious of the present hardships in our country and the hard times that all the citizens of the country are presently undergoing.

    “The government appreciates the resilience of all Nigerians and appeals to our people to kindly bear with the government and be assured that the ongoing hardships are very temporary and will soon give ways to era of prosperity and real growth and developments in Nigeria.

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    “The government has put several measures and economic policies in place that would soon mature and transform our country into one of the top economies of the globe.”

    Fagbemi commended Justice Ariwoola for his many positive contributions to the Judiciary within his about two-year tenure as the CJN

    In his valedictory speech, Ariwoola, who gave glory to God for his successful career on the Bench, restated his call for urgent measures to reduce the workload of the Supreme court.

    He said: “It is however, my belief that access to justice should not be regarded as an uncontrolled and unfiltered liberty to bring all forms of cases to the Supreme Court.

    “It is my belief that we trivialise the institution of the Supreme Court as a court of policy when every form of litigation is able to meander its way to the apex court.

    “It also diminishes the judicial importance of the Court of Appeal – that very important appellate court – when every one of its decisions must be reviewed by us here.

    “I daresay that if there is another court that is superior to the Supreme Court, many cases will find their way to that court ad infinitum. Counsel and litigants ought to know when to call it a day,” Ariwoola said.

  • Supreme Court ruling on LG autonomy takes immediate effect – Fagbemi

    Supreme Court ruling on LG autonomy takes immediate effect – Fagbemi

    The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the federation, Lateef Fagbemi, has said that Thursday’s Supreme Court ruling on the financial autonomy of local governments takes immediate effect.

    The seven-member Supreme Court panel held that state governors have continued to abuse their powers by retaining and using the funds meant for LGAs.

    The apex court ordered the federal government to withhold allocations of LGs governed by unelected officials.

    However, speaking with journalists after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu, Fagbemi said the judgment of the Supreme Court will take “immediate effect”.

    Read Also: Ozekhome: Supreme Court’s judgment halts FAAC allocations to CTC chairmen

    The AGF said: “The ball is now in the court of state governors to conduct LGA elections, adding that the judgment stipulates punishment for refusal.

    “Naturally, one will be happy, should be happy. Nigerians are happy about it.

    “I call it local government emancipation judgment because it has really emancipated the local government from the shackles of the past.

    “I hope that local government officials will look at it as an opportunity to develop their various local governments.

    “The judgment is clear as to what they should do, the judgment is clear as to what consequences will attach to failure or refusal to follow the judgment of the Supreme Court… which takes immediate effect.”

  • LG autonomy: Akpabio, Abbas, Fagbemi laud verdict

    LG autonomy: Akpabio, Abbas, Fagbemi laud verdict

    • Soludo, Otu take judgment in good faith

    The  Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to local governments is a major victory for democracy, Senate President Godswill Akpabio,  House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abass, and Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fabgemi(SAN),  have said.

    While Akpabio and  Abass congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating the process that led to judgment, Fagbemi said it is an emancipation of the local governments.

    They added that the judgment represents a significant milestone in the country’s democratic journey.

    The trio spoke with reporters after meeting with President Tinubu, along with some senior government officials in Abuja.

    Akpabio said: “Recall that the request was placed before the courts by the AGF because the federal government, through President Bola Tinubu, feels strongly about separation of powers and the need for autonomy of all arms of governments, so for us in the legislature, the Supreme Court has spoken and we have no option than to abide by the Supreme Court judgment.’’

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    The Senate President called on the states  ‘’to respect what the Supreme Court did ’’ while the National Assembly looks at  how to   ‘’dot the i’s and cross the t’s to ensure full implementation of the judgment. ‘’

    He added: “This is a great day for democracy, and I congratulate the President for this initiative. I know that all Nigerians now know that local government administration is an arm of government meant for the grassroots and their money should be for the grassroots.

    ’’ Definitely, local governments can now undertake projects on their own. So it’s a great day for democracy and is the beginning of great things to come.”

    Akpabio also praised the justices of the Supreme Court for the verdict and reiterated the parliament’s commitment to ensuring enforceability.

    He said the issue of non-conduct of local government elections by some governors and called for elections that allow all political parties to participate.

      House of Representatives Speaker Abbas expressed delight of over the judgment.

     He described it  as a historic moment, culminating from two years of efforts by the National Assembly to ensure local government independence through various constitutional amendments.

     Abass said the victory  is a victory for the legislature and the nation, paving the way for functional local governments that can serve their people without interference from state governors.

     The Speaker expressed optimism that the judgment would enable local governments to extend goodwill to their constituents, unhindered by the excesses of state governors.

    ‘’The House of Representatives welcomes this significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey,’’ he added.

    Fagbemi expressed delight at the decision, which he believes will empower local governments to develop their areas.

     He added that the judgment required states to conduct elections for local government areas, placing the onus on governors to comply.

     Fagbemi stressed that the judgment was clear on the consequences for non-compliance.

    Daniel congratulates Tinubu, Supreme Court

    Ogun State former Governor  Gbenga Daniel said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated uncommon courage and leadership in a manner that seeks to return Nigeria on a trajectory of growth.

    Daniel, in his reaction to the judgment, said: “President Tinubu and the Supreme Court have restored sanity to the Nigerian political space as this will allow the dividends of democracy to reach the masses.’’

    The former governor and Senator representing Ogun East in the Senate, added: “This constitutional resolution is long overdue because the local government administration is the closest to the grassroots and they should have the capacity to impact directly on the lives of the people through the initiation of life-changing programs and projects.

    “As a democrat, and a Progressive one at that, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has demonstrated enormous capacity in the struggle towards strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, and with this local government financial autonomy, he has once again set to recalibrate the wheels of our political and Economic growth in a way that it will make clear meanings to the average citizens.

    “I salute Mr. President for this global road map that will usher

    Soludo,  Otu take  judgment in good faith

    Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo said the Supreme Court judgment aligns with his administration’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

    Soludo, whose administration has yet to conduct council polls since 2021 when it came into office,  said it was imperative for resources to reach the grassroots in a manner that promotes accountability and transparency.

    He spoke with reporters after meeting with President Tinubu in Abuja yesterday. 

    “The  Supreme Court is supreme, it’s the final authority, and am a Democrat. I believe in the rule of law and once the Supreme Court has spoken, it has spoken.

    ‘At a fundamental level, we need resources to get down to the real grassroots and we need the people’s money to work for them at all levels, whether at the federal or the state and the local government.

    “We need to promote accountability. We need to promote transparency in the utilisation of public resources at all levels, to be able to lift the burden off the common man.”

    Acknowledging that the Anambra State Government has not held local government elections, the governor reassured of his commitment to fulfilling his promise to conduct one soon.

    ‘’When I was elected, that’s one of the things I promised our people because in Anambra, we haven’t had, to be honest with you, I think the first local government election we had was in 1998 or something thereabout, and then the next one was in 2014 or 2013. And that was it. I mean, finished one and a half years or two years thereabout, and even the institutions the place is quiet, not strengthened,’’ he said.

    Soludo’s counterpart in Cross River State,  Bassey Otu also expressed approval of the ruling, stating that it has been received in good faith.

     He said: “Nigeria is a democratic country, and we know very well that President Tinubu and the renewed hope agenda is a democratic one. I believe that the judgment is taken in very good faith. All Nigerians should be happy about it.

    “I don’t think anybody is against development in the local governments. I have not read the details of the judgment as passed, but when we do, I believe that the application of it should add some pep to our local government administration.”

    Atiku: It’s victory for Nigerians

    Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has commended the Supreme Court’s verdict on financial autonomy for local governments.

    Atiku described it as a victory for Nigeria and a  major corrective action in greasing the wheels of national development.’’

     “The judgment  affirming fiscal autonomy to local government councils in the country is a win for the people of Nigeria,” he said in a statement on his X( formerly Twitter) account.

     The statement reads: “The court’s ruling is a step in the right direction and a major corrective action in greasing the wheels of national development across the country.

    ‘’The decision by the Federal Government to consolidate disbursements of local councils’ revenues into the state government accounts was a decision that was borne out of politics of hasty compromise.

    ‘’I align with the decision of the Supreme Court that the structure of the Nigerian government is portioned in three layers, and of these, the local governments should be centres of development.”

    But Atiku, who was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate for last year’s general election,  advised that the push for local government autonomy should not be limited to revenues.

    He said: “I also share the belief that fiscal autonomy to the local governments should not be limited to revenues from the Federation Accounts, but indeed, should apply to Internally Generated Revenue from the respective local government authorities.

    “Many of our states, especially those in the ultra-urban areas with high-density economic activities, have become notorious for muscling local councils from generating revenue on items that border on motor parks, outdoor advertising, rents, and many more.

    ‘’The verdict of the court is in tandem with the core functions of the Supreme Court as an arbitration court between and among governments.”

    Verdict negates true federalism, says Ibori

     Delta State former  Governor James   Ibori said that the verdict was an as assault on true federalism.

    Although Ibori said he was opposed to state governors fiddling with local government allocations, he argued that that does not ‘’call for this death knell(judgment)  to the clear provisions of section 162(3) of the 1999 Constitution.

    ‘’The Supreme Court has dealt a severe setback on the principle of federalism as defined by Section 162(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

    ‘’The section expressly provides thus: “Any amount standing to the credit of the Federation Account shall be distributed among the Federal and State Governments and the Local Government Councils in each state on such terms and in such manner as may be prescribed by the National Assembly,” he wrote yesterday on his X (formerly Twitter) handle.

    The former governor  said Section 6  clarifies that ‘’each state shall maintain a special account to be called “State Joint Local Government Account” into which shall be paid all allocations to the Local Government Councils of the state from the Federation Account and from the government of the state.’’

    He added that the apex court decision could be seen as an erosion of state autonomy.

    “The court’s ruling on the matter is an assault on true federalism. The federal government has no right to interfere with the administration of local governments in under any guise whatsoever. There are only two tiers of government in a federal system of government.

    “I’m opposed to fiddling with the allocations to the Joint LG Accounts at the state level but that in itself does not call for this death knell to the clear provisions of section 162 of the Constitution, ‘’ Ibori said.

    He pointed out that the judgment ‘’appears to contradict the explicit provisions of Section 162 of the  Constitution, shifts the balance of power between the federal government and states and may the financial independence of states and local governments.

    Ibori added: “That local governments must be democratically elected goes without saying. Yes, I agree, that’s the position of the Constitution but withholding their allocation is not the way to go. It’s wrong.

    “In the coming days, we will begin to fully understand the implications of the Supreme Court decision. An assault on the Constitution is not the answer to fiddling with the Joint LG Account.

    ‘’If the ruling is saying governors cannot temper, touch, fiddle with the joint accounts, that’s fine because they shouldn’t be doing that in the first place. But asking the Federal Government to pay local government allocations to the account of the Local Government directly is utter madness.

    “Like Justice  Chukwudifu Oputa of blessed memory once said in describing the Supreme Court “We are not final because we are infallible, but we are infallible only because we are final.”

    “It is my sincere hope that the judgment delivered today(yesterday) will be reviewed at the earliest time possible because it stands the concept of federalism on its head.”

  • Fagbemi advocates scrapping of State Electoral Commissions

    Fagbemi advocates scrapping of State Electoral Commissions

    Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has canvassed for the abolition of the State Independent Electoral Commission to guarantee a democratic system of electing local government chairmen in the country.

    Fagbemi, who spoke at a National Discourse on Nigeria’s security challenges and good governance at the local government level, said elections into the various local government councils in the country have become a process of imposition and adoption, adding that no matter how bad the party in power in the state perform, they always win all the local government election the states.

    He also faulted the constitutional provisions on local government autonomy which he said did not give a clear provision of what the autonomy of the local government should be, while calling for a constitutional amendment to address the challenge.

    He explained that the idea of local government stems from the fact that it is the closest government to the people in a democratic setting. For this reason, it must be effective and efficient in the discharge of its responsibilities to the people to enable it to perform its tasks to the satisfaction of the citizen.

    According to him, the nearness of local governments to the people places them in a position where they can easily articulate and aggregate the demands of the people. A government operating at the grassroots level is indeed, more likely to be attached to the needs of the people.

    He said the Constitution made provisions for Local Government Authorities (LGA) (see section 7), creation of new ones (section 8[3]), fiscal transfers from the federation account section 162], 7[5] and functions [fourth schedule). These provisions were made to safeguard a reasonable level of structural autonomy for local governments in achieving good governance.

    The minister said that despite the constitutional provisions that were meant to safeguard local governments’ autonomy, there have been cases of arbitrary dissolution, abolition, or fragmentation of local governments by the higher tiers of government, particularly the state government.

    He said the provision of the constitution under section 162 (5-8) on State Joint Local Government Account, which empowered the state Assemblies to decide the revenue to their local government facilitated state encroachment on local revenues.  Cases of State hijacking of local government revenues abound from 1999 to date.

    He maintained that with these weak constitutional provisions, the lifespan of the local government councils is at the mercy of the State governments. There is no consistent pattern of local government elections. Some State governors dissolved their Councils and appointed Caretaker Committees.

    He argued that there are several cases of abuse of the Joint Account by different State governments across Nigeria. This has undermined the financial autonomy of the local government, as well as their ability to deliver on their statutory responsibilities.

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    He stressed that under a true federal structure, the autonomy of local government is adequately guaranteed, adding that one of the persisting challenges of Nigeria’s federalism is the persistent failure to grant autonomy to local government as the third tier of government.

    He said: “Although, the LGAs as the third tier of government in Nigeria and as enshrined in the constitution is ostensibly meant to serve as an institutional framework for effective service delivery to the grassroots and the overall national development; however, LGAs in Nigeria have been performing poorly in provision of essential services to the people due to absence of autonomy.

    “The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria did not provide adequately for the political autonomy of the local governments. The resultant effects of these inadequacies are that the state governments have the discretion to determine the nature, content and direction of local government elections and political activities.

    “The failure of the constitution to articulate a clear line of authorities to both the state and local authorities and the continuing debate over the involvement of state governments in distributing local government allocation from the Federation Account has affected the capacity of LGAs to provide essential services at the grassroots.

    “Rather than function as a tier of government, LGAs have been operating as an appendage of the State governments in Nigeria. The constitutional provisions on State Joint Local Government Account (section 162 (5-8)) have placed the local government councils in a political bondage.

    “Politically, due to the flaws in the electoral process in the country, what is obtained is a virtual selection and not an election of local government functionaries. Local government chairmen are always imposed on the people by the State Governors.

    “This erodes the three elements of good governance at the local government level, which are citizens’ participation, transparency and accountability. The imposed chairman will be accountable only to the Governor rather than the people. This results in lack of transparency and non-involvement of the citizens.”

    According to Fagbemi, the absence of administrative and fiscal autonomy for LGAs created a dependency situation rather than an independent one conceptualized under a true federal system of government.

    “The local governments in many instances have continued to suffer fiscal emasculation in the hands of state governments. In all these unwholesome abuses, Sections 7 and 162 of the 1999 Constitution among others have been an escape route for many State Governments to manipulate the Local government and reduce same to a mere department in the Governor’s office.

    “State joint local government account (SJLGA) has been the anti-development instrument used to frustrate every progressive and patriotic action to make the Local Government work since the return of the Country to democracy in 1999.

    “Good governance at any level of governance is not possible without the transfer of authority, responsibilities, capacity and resources. This is even more so for the LGAs.

    “Accordingly, constitutional reforms should, among other things, aim to:  increase fiscal and administrative autonomy of local government system to enhance its effectiveness and efficiency; fiscal autonomy should be balanced with fiscal restraint by strengthening the internal controls system, processes and infrastructure for public financial management; ensure inclusiveness and citizens participation in the governance of LGAs and allow the legislative arms of local governments to decide what they should do with revenue accruing to them.”

  • BREAKING: AGF, NJC, RMAFC, others back proposed 300% salary, allowance increase for judges

    BREAKING: AGF, NJC, RMAFC, others back proposed 300% salary, allowance increase for judges

    The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, on Monday, May 20, supported the proposed 300 percent increase in the salaries and allowances of judicial office holders in the country by President Bola Tinubu.

    The National Judicial Council (NJC), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Allocation Commission (RMAFC), among others, also endorsed the proposal.

    The AGF, NBA, NJC, RMAFC, and other critical stakeholders spoke during a one-day public hearing on a Bill titled: “A Bill for an Act to Prescribe the Salaries and Allowances and Fringe Benefit of Judicial Office Holders in Nigeria and Related Matters, 2024.”

    The public hearing was organised by the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters chaired by Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno (APC – Borno North).

    Fagbemi in his presentation, urged the committee to note that the efforts to improve the remuneration of judicial officers in the country has a chequered history.

    He said: “I wish to remark that the Judicial Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances, etc.) Bill 2024 is quite innovative, aside from the increment in the basic salary, it also took cognizance of certain peculiarities of the administrative structure and operation of the judiciary.

    “This Bill will birth an appropriate and commensurate remuneration that will ensure judicial independence and integrity.

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    “The present-day but sad reality is that the judiciary has stagnated on the same salary scale for over 16 years, this is totally unacceptable and quite antithetical to any meaningful judicial reform.

    “I strongly commend this Bill for your kind consideration and do urge the Senate to support and ensure the passage of this Bill in the national interest of promoting the rule of law.”

    He added: “In consultation with the judiciary and other key stakeholders, we are also interested in ensuring a holistic review of our judicial system to respond to the justice needs of Nigeria.

    “This is why I am taking immediate/urgent steps to establish a Working Group on the review of the Constitution and other relevant laws. The Working Group will, among others, focus on the key provisions aimed at achieving the judiciary that responds to the evolving justice needs of Nigerians.

    “At the appropriate time, and I promise very soon, we will come up with proposals for Constitutional and Statutory reforms of the Judiciary in particular, and the Administration of the Justice System in general.”

    Details shortly…

  • Madam Fagbemi: a celebration of life

    Madam Fagbemi: a celebration of life

    Nature was kind and the weather was benevolent at Ekinrin-Adde, Kogi State, where relations gathered for the funeral of the matriarch, Princess Eunice Nufin Fagbemi.

    The deceased, described by relatives and other townspeople as a woman of great virtues, was the wife of the veteran journalist, the late Chief Adeleye Fagbemi, and mother of two eminent journalists-Kunle Ade-Adeleye. General Editor of The Nation Newspaper, and Banwo Fagbemi, an ex-staff of the same organisation.

    It was not a flamboyant funeral that would have reflected  the emptiness of life and vanity of vanities, but a solem celebration of a worthwhile existence, humility, modesty and memory of dignified parenthood.

    Mama Fagbemi passed on January 3, 2024, at 85, exactly 20 years after the demise of her illustrious husband, who made name as editor of the Punch Newspaper and an outstanding columnist. She is survived by other accomplished children-Professor Oyinkan Medubi, and Adefunso, a private sector worker and pastor.

    A devoted Christian, she was raised in the strict Baptist tradition, which she never deviated from throughout life. That early religious  exposure shaped her parenting style of love, affection, discipline, tolerance, praying and admonition.

    Mrs. Fagbemi savoured the beauty of long life. In the twilight of life, she was surrounded by her grandchildren and great grandchildren, who catered for her. Thus, in her old age, she was never in want emotional support.

    Her children never had premonition about the iminence  of an end. After complaining about dehydration, they affectionately rallied round her with the necessary medication.

    Few days later, she passed on peacefully “without troubling anyone,” but not before she renewed her faith in Christ through prayers for remission of sins and total surrender to the will of God.

    Ade-Adeleye, his first son, noted: “It did not surprise us that her strong will helped her withstand the vagaries of old age. Indeed, she was strong to the end, walked unaided, and while her diet had become restricted, her health vitals belied her nutritional shortcomings. She literarily died in harness, in lie with her prayers, unwilling to be a burden to anyone, least of all her children.”

    To her last child, Adefunso, “she was kind, loving, loyal and generous.” But, he added that his mother never pampered him, but nurtured him to imbibe discipline and hardwork.

    Olubanwo, her second son, described her as a critic, counsellor, collaborator, and a woman of wit and etiquette,  who taught him to obey God’s commandments, avoid alcohol, stay away from rough behaviours in the kitchen and “do not taste the cooking with the same spoon from your mouth.”

    That made him adhere to moral instructions, as his mother never spared the rod.

    To Dr. Adebola Medubi, Mrs. Fagbemi was a good mother-in-law, who admonished him to always reflect on the consequences of his intended actions. “Seemingly quiet, but cerebrally sharp and pleasantly witty, you taught me to make sure that I had the medicine in hand before I decided to eat cockroach and that I reminded myself always,” he said in his tribute.

    Also paying tribute, Mrs. Oluwakemi Ade-Adeleye, her daughter-in-law, recalled her financial, emotional and physical support. “May your legacy of kindness, strength and grace inspire us to live our lives with the same warmth and generosity you exemplified,” she said.

    Kofoworola Fagbemi, journalist and daughter-in-law, said Mama Fagbemi was a gentle and humorous woman, who loved her grandchildren, laughed easily at their antics and lit up when they interacted with her. “I will continue to appreciate Mama’s quiet recommendations and sense of humour. I will fondly remember her culinary skills, especially her ‘efo riro’ and ‘koto’ delicacies,” she added.

    A very outstanding tribute came from Oladunni Ade-Adeleye, an engineer, who recalled her induction into the culture and tradition of her cradle by her grandmother. At a time western education had dwarfed core African traditional values, Mama Fagbemi connected her with her original roots.

    Her testimony: “She gifted me with the beauty of our native Ekinrin language, teaching me the Fagbemi family’s ‘oriki,’ which became our signature greeting whenever we spoke. Through soft-spoken conversations and shared laughter, grandma’s teachings went beyond linguistics; they were a bridge that connected me to my ancestry.”

    Like Kofoworola Fagbemi, Oladunni was also fascinated by her grandmother’s cooking mastery.

    She said: “But, it wasn’t just the hymns or oriki, it was the symphony of flavours that danced in the kitchen, especially when she conjured the magic of ‘egusi’ soup. Her ‘egusi/efinrin’ recipe was not just a culinary creation; it was an alchemical masterpiece.  This gastronomic symphony has united generations and fiĺled many a belly with love so satisfying it feels like the first time, every time.”

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    At the First Baptist Church, Ekinrin-Adde, where the hearse was for the last time, relations and townspeople were locked in sober reflection on the import of mortality and inevitability of life after life, particularly for those who serve God with their hearts.

    The thanksgiving service, which was held a day after the wake-keep at the residence of Pa Fagbemi,  preceeded the interment.

    Mama Fagbemi’s biography was read by her first child,  Prof. Medubi during the service officiated by Rev (Dr) E.A Ogunjobi, who was assisted by church elders. It was a testimony to her dedication to her family, depth of character, industry and commitment to things of God.

    “Throughout her life, Mama took the matter of her spirituality very seriously. Bred the Baptist way in Ekinrin, she contributed to the growth of the Baptist church in her young days, and even represented the church in conventions. From church meetings, Mama was reported to have brought home reports that were thought could lift up the spirituality of the church,” said Prof. Medubi.

     At the service were members of the Fagbemi family, led by Tunde Fagbemi, retired Colonel, and Ajubulu family; the deceased’s in-law, Dr. Medubi, her step son, Prof. Tai Oluwagbemi; Mr. Victor Ifijeh, Managing Director/Editor-In-Chief of The Nation Newspaper and Pastor Sanya Oni, columnist, Editorial Page Editor and member of Editorial Board of the newspaper.

    Rev. Ogunjobi said although many people fear death, it is inevitable. However, he admonished the congregation to bear in mind that eternity is more important than the transcient existence on earth.

    Quoting from the scriptures, the priest said Christians should not behave like people without hope, emphasising that after death, there is a guarantee of eternal life for those who serve God.