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  • Plot to impeach Bayelsa Speaker thickens

    The plot to impeach Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Tonye Isenah, has thickened following his refusal to step down as directed by Governor Seriake Dickson and leaders Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders.

    It was gathered that lawmakers loyal to the governor and the PDP had been mobilised to carry out an impeachment proceeding against Isenah, who had insisted that his resignation would not add any value to the PDP’s quest to win the November 16 election.

    It was also learnt that external forces, powered by the opposition, were planning to protect Isenah to enable him retain his office.

    Some of the lawmakers were also said to be against the move to remove the speaker, whom they described as a good fellow, and had vowed to stand against any motion to actualise the plot.

    Isenah was said to have tried to convene a sitting of the House yesterday to discuss issues and adjourn the House till further notice. But PDP leaders, who got wind of the development, reportedly prevailed on their loyal lawmakers not to attend the sitting, which failed to hold for lack of capacity to form a quorum.

    Read Also: I won’t resign, daring Bayelsa Speaker tells Dickson, others

    The speaker came under intense pressure to relinquish his office in the House of Assembly to enable his party balance political equations ahead of the November 16 election. He was said to have reached an agreement with Dickson and other PDP leaders to vacate his office in the event that Senator Douye Diri, who hails from his Kolokuma-Opokuma Local Government Area, becomes the party’s governorship candidate.

    After Diri won the primaries, PDP leaders were said to have asked Isenah to surrender his position to another lawmaker from Southern Ijaw to enable the party garner votes from the council. But Isenah insisted he would not let go of his position before the poll.

    The speaker, in a statement by his media aide,  Aotendeike Boloigha, said he had served the PDP faithfully and was yet to see how his resignation would help the party in the poll.

    But PDP leaders against Isenah were reportedly determined to force him out of the office to make way for a lawmaker from Southern Ijaw to brighten the party’s chances at the poll.

    But a source said Isenah’s travails were based on his refusal to initiate an impeachment proceeding against the Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral John Jonah (rtd).

    “It is not just about an agreement to step down; it is about the deputy governor. The powers that be accused the deputy governor of planning to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as an incumbent deputy governor. They don’t want that to happen.

    “There are insinuations that Jonah wants to join the APC and contest the Bayelsa East senatorial election, which will be vacant if the APC wins the governorship election because the incumbent senator is the running mate to the APC candidate, David Lyon. So, the party leaders want Jonah out of the way but Isenah is refusing to be used to carry out the process,” he said.

    Isenah’s aide on New Media, Dickson Opuene, in his social media posts, also hinted that the speaker was undergoing the travails for refusing PDP leaders’ request to impeach the deputy governor.

  • Dead cows: Epidemic looms in Ondo community

    The Olujare of Ijare in Ifedore Local Government Area of Ondo State, Oba Adebamigbe Oluwagbemigun Kokotiri, has attributed the death of 36 cows on Oke-owa to an act of the gods.

    The royal father told reporters that the herders refused to heed warnings to keep off the ‘sacred’ hill.

    Thirty six cows died on top of the dreadful Ijare Mountain after they were allegedly hit by lightning on Saturday.

    Residents claimed that the cows died after desecrating the Oke-Owa Hill, where sacrifice is made every year.

    Oba Oluwagbemigun said it was against the tradition of Ijare for people to turn Oke-Owa to a grazing land.

    Read Also: Thunder kills 36 cows on Ondo sacred hill

    He said: “But what I can say is that Oke-owa is a sacred place and our people know that you can’t just go there the way you like. As the ruler of the town, l go there once in a year and l don’t even go there alone

    “l go there with my chiefs and some people who are revered. There is nothing we can do than to reiterate to people; tell them how sacred the place is. My people they know this. We will keep warning them.

    “To me, it is an act of God, for the thunder storms to strike. To me, what we were telling them has come to past.”

    Also reacting to the incident, the Sapetu of Ijare, Chief Wemimo Olaniran said the natural occurrence, should not be allowed to cause unnecessary crisis in the community.

    Olaniran, who is the prime minister of Ijare, accused the herders of desecrating Oke-Owa.

    The scene of the incident has become a Mecca of sorts for people both within and outside the community.

    Members of the State House of Assembly Committee on Agriculture yesterday visited Oke-Owa Hill on a fact-finding mission.

    However, the place is gradually becoming unsafe due to offensive odour oozing out of the dead cows.

    House Speaker Bamidele Oleyelogun, who incidentally hails from Ifedore Local Government Area and some committee members, said drastic steps must be taken to avoid epidemic.

  • Lawyers ask court to stop APCON’s internet adverts regulation bid

    The Incorporated Trustees of Digital Rights Lawyers Initiative (DRLI) has asked the Federal High Court in Lagos to stop the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON)’s planned regulation of internet advertisements.

    DRLI, through two of its lawyers, Solomon Okedara and Olumide Babalola, is seeking a declaration that APCON lacks the power to vet and charge fees on Internet-based advisements posted by non-advertising practitioners.

    The lawyers are contending that going by the decision of the Court of Appeal in the case of APCON vs Registered Trustees of International Covenant Ministerial Council and others, “the respondent (APCON) does not have powers to vet and or charge fees on Internet-based advertisements made by non-advertising practitioners.”

    They prayed the court to perpetually restrain APCON and its agents from further vetting and charging fees on online and social media advertisements made by non-advertising practitioners as it violates their fundamental rights to freedom of expression and the press.

    In an 11-paragraph supporting affidavit, one Sunkanmi Bello explained that DRLI is a non-governmental organisation, which advertises its activities, events and achievements on its website, www.drlawyers.com

    Bello said the NGO also used Internet-based social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, to disseminate information about itself.

  • Lawyer hails Ayade over tribunal victory, new ministries, agencies

    Association of Professional Negotiators and Mediators President, Dr. Dorn cKlaimz Enamhe, has hailed Governor Ben Ayade’s victory at the Cross River Election Petition Tribunal, describing it as victory for all Cross Riverians.

    Enamhe told The Nation that this victory would enable the governor to continue transforming Cross River State without distractions.

    He urged politicians to shun primordial sentiments and join hands with the governor to make the state an economic hub in Africa.

    He said: “The victory of Sir Ben Ayade means so much to Cross Riverians. At a moment like this, where life for an average Nigerian in some states of the federation has been reduced to feeding from “hand to mouth”, where some state economies have been totally grounded, at a time President Buhari being aware of the sufferings of Nigerians will say he will not inflict more sufferings on Nigerians, Cross River State  is lucky with a selfless, people-oriented and industrialisation-driven governor

    “The tribunal judgment, beyond being expected, comes to consolidate a mandate that has its roots  at the polls. It  was unprecedented, a  governor that won his opponents in all the wards of the state from Gakem to Bakassi . The judgement was a clinical legal finishing reflecting,consolidating and validating the good wishes of the good people of Cross River State

    Read Also: Tribunal reaffirms Sanwo-Olu as Governor

    “At this moment, all we need to do is to pray for the governor who says all hands must be on the plough this time. We must support him and encourage him in his industrialisation drive; our state is in dire need of a new nomenclature “the industrialisation hub of Nigeria”. Our energetic youths would want a fall back and that can only come throughout permanent job creation and provision,” he said.

    Enamhe added: “I join the first family of Cross River State to celebrate with all Cross Rivereans on this joyous moment and milestone judgement. Let’s consolidate on the super highway project, the Bakassi deep sea project, the seed and seedlings factory, the noodles factory, the power plant project, the banana plantations, the rice mill in Ogoja, the Cocoa processing factory at Ikom, the toothpick factory, the pharmaceutical factory and most of all, the annual carnival Calabar project, the biggest street party in Africa, taking a close look at the additional ministries

    “Governor Ben Ayade must be appreciated for his policy of specifics,where people are made to serve in their specific areas of special interest unlike in the past where commissioners or directors -general of agencies will be overseeing bogus ministries, departments and  agencies  where they may not likely be able to deliver and control all the areas unde their watch

    Here, again, Ayade has shown his depth and rare gift of leadership  by creating nine new ministries and 11 agencies.

    “The ministries are Ministry of Aviation, Ministry of Foreign Affair,  Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Science & Morality, Ministry of Construction & Fabrication,  Ministry of Marine Services, Ministry of Urbanisation, Ministry of Internal Revenue Services, Ministry of Social Welfare while the newly created agencies are: Street Clearing Agency, Cross River Airport Authority, Cross River Port Authority, Cross River Border, Patrol Agency, Green Police (Sheriff) Agency, Afforestation Agency, Waste To Wealth Agency, Bakassi Development Authority, Obudu Ranch Development Authority, Fresh Forest & Flower Agency, Artificial Intelligence Agency,” Enamhe stated.

  • AGF to judges: be credible, bold

    Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami (SAN) has urged  judges to be credible and render justice to all without fear, favour or ill will.

    He said this would  ensure that the integrity reposed in the courts remained unshaken at all times in order to foster and promote public confidence in all judgments and rulings from the court.

    Malami stated this in Abuja during the special court session held by the Federal High Court to mark the beginning of the 2019/20 legal year.

    He also praised the court for the speed with which it handled pre-election matters in the wake of, during and after the general election.

    “This court has set the records straight, which helped the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to effectively field the right candidates for the elections and the efficient conduct of election processes,” he said.

    Malami urged lawyers to cooperate with the Federal High Court in ensuring that the dignity, integrity and credibility of the court are not put to ridicule.

    He said: “We must collectively shun fraudulent practices and to render sound and unbiased advice to our clients based on laid down laws and not on sentiment. We should also not be seen encouraging our clients to ridicule this court into doing the impossible. As ministers in the temple of justice, we must together foster the desired growth for a better society because this court, on its own, can only do little as permitted by law.”

    The Acting Chief Judge of the court, Justice John Tsoho, while declaring the new legal year open, said that 116,623 cases were pending before the courts across the country.

    His words: “16,144 cases were filed in this quarter alone in which 12,692 have been disposed of. It is obvious that the judges were overburdened with work in the last legal year.

    “We, therefore, need to engage more judicial officers to help out. However, it does appear that there was no provision for appointment of judges in the current budget. I will make effort to discuss with the relevant stakeholders to see to the visibility of facilitating the recruitment of more judicial officers in the course of the year.”

    Also speaking, the body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), represented by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, called for specialisation of courts.

    Read Also: Buhari committed to wellbeing of the masses – AGF

    It said: “The challenge, which we wish, respectfully, to place before my Lord, the Chief Judge is to break this court into specialised divisions.

    “What I mean is that the era of general jurisdiction in one judge has shown that a judge, each day, has over 25 cases to deal with.

    “Their claims or causes include political matters under Electoral Act, criminal matters under National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) and sundry crimes.

    “In the same cause list, you have suits on aviation, fundamental enforcement, bankruptcy and insolvency, terrorism, mines and minerals including pollution, natural gas, including arbitration matters, arms and ammunition, cybercrimes treasonable felony and allied offences and interpretation of the constitution causes. The learned trial judge moves from law to the other within hours with rulings and judgments to be delivered thereon.

    “My Lord, specialised divisions of the federal court will lead to specialisation, increase productivity and reduce the much talked about delay in the administration of justice arising from unnecessary work load. The calls and argument for “Special Corruption Court” will pale into insignificance and spent.”

    It continued: “We are in the 20th Century, where information technology has become a tool for efficient management of cases, resources and time in the administration of justice. It is not an impediment to elevation even up to the Supreme Court.

    “All you need is to invest in training, retraining and continuous education in the specialised fields. The judges will suffer less stress and pressure. We believe the greatness of the court lies in creativity and innovation and so, respectfully, recommend this idea for the consideration of all stakeholders.”

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), on its part, stressed that the independence of the judiciary was under threat by the Executive.

    Its President, Paul Usoro (SAN), noted that it is not for nothing that the Federal High Court is described and looked upon in terms that suggest its ranking as primus inter pares in the hierarchy of High Courts in the Nigerian Federation.

    According to him, “The gamut of its jurisdiction, both exclusive and concurrent, stands it out. But more than that, it is the primary High Court in the federation that has jurisdiction over the entire federation, with its divisions dotted all over the country.

    “Your Lordships therefore have the unique advantage of being periodically transferred from one division of the court to another and in that process, Your Lordships get to work in, know and understand all the different component units of the Nigerian Federation and also appreciate the different quirks and idiosyncrasies of the people that make up this great country.”

    Usoro further said: “Your Lordships are therefore in a prime position to pronounce, as Your Lordships always do, through this Honourable Court’s decisions, that, though tribes and tongues may differ, we remain one great country and are strong in spite of and indeed because of both our diversity and unity.

    “It is in that context that I specially congratulate Your Lordships for stepping forward at critical moments to reaffirm and cement the bonds of our Nigerian unity through the various pronouncements and decisions of Your Lordships’ courts.

    “The opening of the legal year traditionally affords the Bar and the Bench the opportunity for introspection and to ruminate on national issues particularly those that affect the justice sector. Topping the list of such issues at all times is the need to promote and protect the rule of law in all its ramifications. That need is perhaps more pronounced today given the siege under which the justice sector is currently operating, evident in the open and sometimes veiled incursions by the executive arm and its agencies. In particular, the independence of the judiciary is under severe threat.

    “To be exact, the independence of mind and thoughts by Your Lordships in the determination of matters before the courts is under severe siege. The executive arm of government and its agencies are increasingly and unceasingly critical of the judiciary and its decisions, particularly in matters that the government and its agencies may be interested in. It is not unusual these days to hear high officials of government talk down the judiciary and ridiculously and rather ill-advisedly dump all the ills of society on the judiciary,” he said.

    Usoro noted that:“Decisions by Your Lordships are sometimes brazenly denigrated and attributed to ulterior and ill motives – and these on social and traditional media platforms. Veiled and sometimes open and, in all cases, audacious attempts are made to teleguide and programme the decisions of courts. These are very dangerous practices that destroy the independence of the judiciary and by extension the rule of law and indeed the fabric of our society.

    “The society needs and can only survive if we have independent-minded judges, who are empowered to dispense justice to all manner of men, including government departments, without fear or favour. We can only survive as a nation if the independence and vibrancy of the judiciary, particularly, the non-interference with the thoughts and decision-making processes of Your Lordships, are guaranteed and protected,” Usoro said.

  • 100 exhibitors for auto parts show

    One hundred exhibitors from Nigeria and other countries are expected to converge on the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos for the West Africa Automotive Show (WAAS) in November.

    Besides displaying the latest developments and products in the spare parts and services sector, suppliers, dealers and manufacturers will be available to discuss best practice for the industry.

    Nigerian businesses, according to the organisers, BtoB Events, will account for about 30 per cent of exhibitors.

    There will be pavilions for Morocco and China, smaller groupings from Thailand, Egypt, Tunisia and India, and other countries.

    BtoB Events’ Managing Director Jamie Hill said: “We have a wealth of international exhibitors looking to bring high-tech equipment to Nigeria for the first time and a large number of local exhibitors are looking to expand their business and increase exports to surrounding countries,” he said.

    Lagos, Hill said, was picked to launch the show because it has capacity to become the automotive hub of the African continent with over 11.5 million vehicles on the roads.

    “With over 60 per cent of vehicles on the road being over 12 years old, there is a huge aftermarket industry. The need for high quality and affordable spare parts is becoming increasingly important,” he said, adding: “There is also a real hunger to boost the local assembly of vehicles across the country with the 2013 National Automotive Industry Development plan (NAIDP). With more assembly plants being set up, this, again, significantly increases the demand for spare parts. We are committed to supporting Nigeria to reach its forecast of having 70 per cent of new cars sold being assembled or manufactured domestically by 2050.”

  • Push for Nigerian flag carriers

    Since the liquidation of Nigeria Airways in 2004, attempts by the government to set up another national carrier, Nigeria Air, have been largely unsuccessful. Experts say aviation business, including airline ownership and management, is better left to the private sector. Is the idea of a national carrier going out of fashion? KELVIN OSA-OKUNBOR asks

    The Minister of Aviation’s pronouncement that  Nigeria Air remains a priority has triggered a huge debate in the sector on the necessity, or otherwise, of a national carrier.

    There is an agreement, however, by experts that Nigeria needs a functional carrier. The argument is whether it should be government- driven, or left in private hands.

    Nigeria Airways Limited, which operated for many years as a national carrier, failed to meet the expectations of Nigerians and was shut by government in 2004.

    Its experience in the 56 years of its existence showed that public ownership of airlines was no more fashionable. Nigeria Airways Limited was established in 1958 as a national carrier but liquidated  in 2004.

    In the last few decades, efforts by the government to achieve a national carrier after the collapse of Nigeria Airways Limited have not gathered any steam.

    Rather than dissipate energy on a national carrier, experts say the government should flow with the global trend of empowering private sector operators as flag carriers.

    The Federal Government approved N47.43 billion for the Nigeria Air project in the 2019 budget.

    Efforts by the government to partner with many organisations to deliver a national carrier since the dying days of the Nigeria Airways Limited have not yielded any positive result.

    From the failed Air Nigeria, which was to come out of Nigeria Airways to Nigerian Global Airlines promoted during the Olusegun Obasanjo-led administration to Nigerian Eagle Airlines and the latest Nigeria Air promoted by Minister of Aviation, Captain Hadi Sirika, none have been delivered.

    Given the huge capital flight by foreign carriers, can setting up a national carrier block such gap? Should the government go ahead with the project? This debate has engaged the attention of industry experts and stakeholders.

    Clamour for a national carrier

    President Muhammadu Buhari, on assumption of office on May 29, 2015, expressed concern over Nigeria’s lack of a national carrier .

    He said the establishment of such a carrier was not only justifiable by economic considerations, but for strategic national interest, national pride and job creation potential.

    The presidential interest was fueled by the unending challenges faced by domestic carriers after the N300 billion intervention fund did not yield positive results.

    Buhari said his administration would act quickly to redress the situation. He directed that the committee saddled with the task of setting up the national carrier to look into the causes of the failure of the Nigeria Airways and other private airlines before arriving at the model that will meet the aspirations of Nigerians.

    Last week, Minister of Aviation Captain Sirika said there was no going back on the project. He stated this when Transaction Advisers submitted the outcome of their research to the government. He said the national carrier was in the pipeline as the Transaction Advisers had concluded their baseline studies and were moving to the next level.

    Sirika said: “Every Nigerian is asking for the national carrier. That is why the project is on course.“

    It is against this background that some experts have called on the government to jettison the idea of a national carrier and embrace the model of private sector-led flag carriers obtainable in some countries across the globe.

    Some of them argued that the government as a regulator in the aviation sector had no business in setting up an airline, but should encourage private sector investors by creating a conducive environment for them to thrive.

    In an interview, Chairman of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) Captain Nogie Meggison said the government should have no business in setting up a national carrier, but empower existing private sector airlines as flag carriers.

    According to the leader of the umbrella body of indigenous carriers, the government should empower domestic carriers by reducing multiple aeronautical and airport charges to actualise the bilateral air services agreement it signed with many countries.

    What really is the difference between a national carrier and a flag carrier?

    Difference between national and flag carriers

    According to the experts, a national carrier is floated by the government as sole shareholder, to operate in the name of the government and represent the government in all aviation-related bilateral services agreements.

    But, a flag carrier is a privately- owned airline that, by agreement, is designated to represent a government and fly on behalf of the government, representing it on all bilateral-designated routes.

    Flag carriers

    Since the demise of the Nigeria Airways, many carriers, including Arik Air, Aero Contractors, Medview Airlines, Air Peace, Overland Airways and Dana Air have been playing the role of flag carriers, flying the country’s flag in many countries, where they are designated.

    Experts’ views

    A former Director of Human Resources at the defunct Virgin Nigeria, Victor Banjo, recently spared a thought for the proposed national carrier. He said the project lacked the requisite structure for success.

    He said the proposed national carrier would lack accountability, fairness, transparency and independence.

    He said: “From the outset, Nigeria Air was doomed to fail because the four pillars of corporate governance were missing. In terms of transparency, too much was shrouded in secrecy for a project a huge chunk of taxpayers’ money was to be committed, and time will tell if it will move from being premature to a stillborn.”

    But, Sabre Travel Solutions President, Gbenga Olowo, said the government should empower existing flag carriers, rather than dissipating energy and resources in setting a national carrier.

    To him, existing flag carriers should be supported through policies that enable them forge alliances as global players .

    His words: “This is easily achievable through economic policy of cooperation, collaborations, mergers and acquisitions; review of all existing Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) through periodic schedules for equity and immediate reversal of all multiple entry points in Nigeria to single entry points.”

    On his part, African Aviation Services Limited Chief Executive Officer Nick Fadugba said though the idea of a national carrier was welcome, but for it to succeed, it would need a sound business plan, strategic industry partners, adequate funding, an experienced management team, well-trained staff, a fleet of modern aircraft, a comprehensive route network, on-time performance, good customer service and no government involvement.

    The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, Nnolim Nnaji, has said Nigeria needs strong flag carriers to enable it play on the continental sphere.

    Nnaji said the country had remained passive in the continental aviation market in recent years, despite its huge daily passenger traffic. However, to him, floating a fully government-owned airline might not be an alternative.

    According to him, the committee will work closely with the Federal Government to ensure that competent local airlines are supported to assume the status of flag carriers and operate internationally.

    An aviation analyst and member, Aviation Round Table, Olumide Ohunayo, said setting up a national carrier was not the best option, but empowerment of existing flag carriers to enable Nigeria actualise its over 75 bilateral air services agreements.

    He said: “We are on the verge of starting a new national carrier after many false starts, from Air Nigeria in 1993 to Nigeria Air in 2018. Twenty-six years, and we are still going round in circles. During this period, the best we got for our efforts was Virgin Nigeria, which within six years had all certifications and numerous offers for partnership.

    “We are toeing that line with the new national carrier project of acquiring five aircraft and flying to international destinations almost immediately without any base or foundation, just the government’s support without requisite funding.

    “If having a national carrier is felt to be a must, then the cost, risk and lessons from other airlines should be seriously considered.”

    More reactions

    Flag carriers said they could do more if they get the necessary support from the government . The support, they said, could come in the form of reducing multiple charges, improved air navigation infrastructure, establishment of aircraft maintenance facility and more involvement in international aero politics.

    On his part, Chairman of Air Peace Allen Onyema said: “However, we need more support from th government. We need to be protected from multiple taxation and the debilitating effects of poor airport infrastructure. We need the government to review the multiple designations given to foreign airlines operating into the country.

    “We need the government to appreciate the contributions of indigenous airlines. We have been exposed to unrelenting hostility. We need the government to help us play the international aero politics that have been working against Nigerian airlines for a long time. Countries protect their airlines against marauding foreign airlines. The local airlines provide jobs for the citizens of their countries hence, the immense protection they get. Recently, Airlines in America complained against the several frequencies given to the heavily-subsidised Gulf states’ airlines. The US Government responded with measures that deterred those Gulf airlines. The US Government needed to protect US jobs by protecting their indigenous airlines.

    “You do not need a national carrier to do the needful. You do not need a national carrier to protect your indigenous businesses. Why did the government want to establish a national airline in the first place?”

    Onyema continued: “Government was rightly worried that no Nigerian indigenous airline was doing well on the international scene. The government noticed a very serious imbalance in our BASA protocols and wanted to bridge it. So government went into it for a reason. Though there were genuine reasons for that plan to set up an airline, it was the belief of not only indigenous airlines but also the discerning aviation world that Nigeria should rather find out why its indigenous airlines have not been able to plug the hole. All we need is total support of our government and we will all get there. National carrier is no longer an idea the world over

    “America with its economic might and aviation prowess (manufacturers of world’s most popular planes) does not have a national carrier. They have flag carriers in Delta Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines and a host of others flying the flag of America. Britain does not have a national carrier any longer. British Airways is no longer a national carrier since the 80s.

    “Nigeria Airways was a failed airline, it died just as other national carriers worldwide,” he said.

    How the government could assist flag carriers

    Legal luminary Olisa Agbakoba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a few years ago mooted the idea of a “Fly Nigeria Act” which prescribes that all government officials flying on its bill must patronise Nigerian flag carriers.

    He said that was one of the ways the government could retain huge funds taken out by foreign carriers in tickets sales.

    Agbakoba said other countries, including United States initiated the Fly America Act to support US carriers.

    Besides Agbakoba, other industry players, including former spokesman of  Nigeria Airways Limited, Mr Chris Aligbe, said such legislative instrument would empower indigenous flag carriers.

  • We are over-worked, CJN cries out

    • Call for enhance financial autonomy, increase pay judges
    • Urges all to respect rule of law
    • Malami urges judges to ensure justice in election cases
    • Justice Ngwuta returns to bench

    The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Muhammad has said that Justices of the Supreme Court are over-worked owing to the rising volume of cases being brought before the court.

    Muhammad, who blamed the development on Nigerians’ preference for litigation, suggested a constitutional amendment to stop interlocutory appeals for terminating at the Supreme Court.

    The CJN, who called for an enhanced remuneration for judges, blamed lawyers for contributing to the high volume of cases in court.

    “As rightly observed, Nigerians are the most litigious people on earth. In every little disagreement, we rush to court; and in every lost case, we rush to appeal even up to the Supreme Court, no matter how infinitesimal the issue might be.

    “That has obviously accounted for several appeals pending in Supreme Court. The attitude of some of our lawyers, too, is less salutary.

    “Some do not even mind throwing their integrity and reputations to the winds by taking briefs that they know don’t hold ground, just for pecuniary reasons.

    “So disturbing is the fact that even in the face of failure, they would still persuade their clients to push the case further on appeal.

    However, the attitude of some of our lawyers has to be properly checked by the Nigerian Bar ASSOClatlon. l have stated it severally that lawyers must desist from the practice of filing needless appeals at the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court.

    “Let it be known that the Supreme Court will henceforth be unsparing in punishing blatant abusers of court processes.

    “There should also be amendment of the Constitution to stop interlocutory appeals from coming to the Supreme Court. It should be ending at the Court of Appeal.

    “From my experience, an elevation to Supreme Court is an elevation to hard work, restlessness and sleeplessness,” Muhammad said.

    He spoke in Abuja on Monday at the event marking the Supreme Court’s new legal year and the inauguration of the 38 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria.

    The CJN, who faulted claim that the independence of the Judiciary has been compromised, said the arm of government was independent in its operations and decisions, but requires more funding to function effectively.

    He said : “The Nigerian Judiciary, to a large extent, is independent in conducting its affairs and taking decisions on matters before it without any extraneous influence.

    “At the Supreme Court, like I have always said, we are totally independent in the way we conduct our affairs, especially in our judgments.

    “We don’t pander to any body’s whims and caprices. lf there is any deity to be feared, it is the Almighty God. We will never be subservient to anybody, no matter his position in the society.

    “Be that as it may, when we assess the judiciary from the financial perspective, how free can we say we are? The annual budget of the Judiciary is still a far cry from what it ought to be.

    “The figure is either stagnated for a long period or it goes on a progressive decline. The only thing i can do at this juncture is to plead with all concerned to let us enjoy our independence holistically.

    “If you say that I am independent, but in a way, whether I like it or not, I have to go cap in hand, asking for funds to run my office, then I have completely lost my independence.”

    Read Also: CJN to inaugurate 38 new SANs September 23

    The CJN added that the problem of inadequate funding of the Judiciary hampers its operations and dampens staff morale.

    He noted that the current state of affair where the financial autonomy of the Judiciary was still not being respected, was violation of the constitutional provisions of separation of powers and independence of the three arms of government.

    The CJN added: “I am using this medium to appeal to governments at all levels to free the judiciary from the financial bondage it has been subjected to over the years.

    “Let it not just be said to be independent but should, in words and actions, be seen to be truly independent. There should not be any strings attached.

    “We would not like to negotiate our financial independence under any guise. Even as I speak now, some states Judiciaries are still having issues with their respective governments. A stitch in time will certainly save nine. Let the judiciary take its destiny in its hands.”

    Muhammad, who sought mutual respect between the Judiciary and the Legislature, urged the law making arm of government to always ensure prompt amendment of law where judicial pronouncements are made.

    “With due respect, l urge the legislative arm to closely be watching the decisions of the Supreme Court. If the court makes any decisions, without anybody telling the legislators to act, they should immediately follow suit by making laws that will encompass such decisions.

    “The Supreme Court has no legislative powers to make laws but only interprets the Constitution. It doesn’t amount to asking for too much if the judiciary requests the legislature to effect certain amendments to the . existing laws.

    “There is no reason for the legislature to delay any amendments sought by the Judiciary. I would also like to solicit for mutual respect and relationship between the legislature and the judiciary. ”

    The CJN, who recalled some happenings in the court the previous legal year, described the circumstances leading to the exit of his immediate predecessor, Justice Walter Onnoghen as an unfortunate event.

    “I was appointed in acting capacity in the course of the year after the unfortunate events that shook the Nigerian Judiciary to its very foundation.” he noted
    Muhammed, who promised to improve on what he inherited, called for the review of the nation’s criminal laws, which he said has to be done on a continuous basis to ensure that laws are relevant and meet today’s demands.
    The CJN promised not to shield corrupt judges and tasked all agencies of government to abide by the principle of rule of law.

    He said: “The Judiciary under my leadership will not lose its firm grip on the mantle of honesty, transparency and integrity and I expect every Judicial officer and of course, legal practitioners too, to tag along.

    “If any Judge is found wanting and you have evidence, please, write your petition to the National Judicial Council immediately for prompt action.

    “The task of ridding the judiciary of corruption is a collective one; and my commitment to it is total. I am assuring you that I will pursue it vigorously in order to bequeath an enduring legacy to my successor.

    “The rule of law which is the bastion of every democracy across the world will be strictly observed in all our dealings and we must impress it on the ‘ governments at all levels to actively toe that path.

    “The rights Of every Citizen against any form of Oppression and impunity must be jealously guided and protected with the legal tools at our disposal.

    “All binding court orders must be obeyed; and nobody, irrespective of his or her position, will be allowed to toy with court judgments.

    “We must collectively show the desired commitment to the full enthronement of the rule of law in the land. As we all know, flagrant disobedience of court orders or non-compliance with judicial orders is a direct invitation to anarchy in the society.”

    Also speaking, the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami urged the court to always ensure justice in all cases, particularly election cases when brought before them.
    Represented by the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice, Dayo Apata (who also got the SAN rank) Malami urged the Supreme Court to always uphold its resolve to always ensure justice and resist the temptation of yielding to the pressures of different political actors.

    The AGF said: “In the light of the concluded general elections and its aftermath election tribunals’ judgments, over which our courts of first instances and appellate courts, decided on different election issues presented before them, this address serves as a clarion call on the Court of Appeal and to this apex court of the land, to be courageous in delivering landmark decisions in favour of justice, equity and fairness.

    “Also, this court should not be seen to bow to the pressures of different political actors, being the last hope of every litigant irrespective of any irregularity that might have occurred in the course of dispensing justice by different election tribunals. it is important that this court as a final arbiter remains just and resolute in resolving all issues presented before it,” Malami said.

    The 38 new SANs are: wife of Justice Olabode Rhodes-Vivour of the Supreme Court, Mrs. Adedoyin Rhodes-Vivour, Dayo Apata, rights activist, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, Abdullahi Haruna, Manga Nuruddeen, John Asoluka, Adedokun Makinde, Daniel Enwelum, Emmanuel Oyebanji, Tuduru Ede, Abdul Ajana, Ama Etuwewe, Oladipo Olasope, Leslie Olutayo Nylander, Olusegun Fowowe and Andrew Hutton.

    Others are Olukayode Enitan, Paul Ogbole, Olaniyi Olopade, Samuel Agweh, Olusegun Jolaawo, Prof. Alphonsus Alubo, Ayo Asala, Abiodun Olatunji, Olumide Aju, Chimezie Ihekweazu, Prof. Mamman Lawan, Prof. Uchefula Chukwumaeze, Usman Sule, Safiya Badamasi, and Echezona Etiaba.

    There were also Godwin Omoaka, Emeka Ozoani, Alexander Ejesieme, Jephthah Njikonye, Aikhunegbe Malik, Alhassan Umar and Oyetola Muyiwa.

    Mrs. Rhodes-Vivour, while speaking on behalf of the new SANs, promised that they will all uphold the dignity of the new title.

    Meanwhile, in what seems a precursor to his eventual resumption of judicial functions, suspended Justice Sylvester Ngwuta of the Supreme Court, participated in activities marking the commencement of the court’s new legal year on Monday

    Fully dressed in the official robe, Justice Ngwuta sat among other Justices of the court, at the inauguration of the new SANs, which held in the Supreme Court’s ceremonial courtroom.

    Justice Ngwuta, now one of the most senior Justices of the Supreme Court has not sat in open court since November 4, 2016 following a directive by the NJC that judicial officers, who were being investigated on corruption related allegations, should cease to perform judicial functions until the conclusion of investigation.

    He was one of the two Justices of the Supreme Court, whose houses were raided, among other judges, by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) between 7 and 8, October, 2016.

    While his other colleague, Justice John Okoro resumed duties shortly after the raid, Ngwuta was charged to court.
    He was first arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja on corruption-related charges and later, arraigned before the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), over his alleged failure to declare some of his assets. Both charges were filed by the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

    On March 23, 2018, the Federal High Court upheld his challenge of the competence of the charge and discharged him.

    Justice John Tsoho, in a ruling, relied on the Court of Appeal decision in the appeal by Justice Hyeladzira Nganjiwa (of the Federal High Court) and held that it was wrong to subject Justice Ngwuta’s trial before his court, without first, subjecting him to the disciplinary procedure of the NJC.

    On May 15, 2018 the CCT also held in similar manner and struck out the charge against Justice Ngwuta.

    Since the last decision by the CCT, Justice Ngwuta has not resumed normal judicial functions. He has not been sighted sitting as a member of any panel of the court.

  • Director-General Trade Negotiation office is dead

    The office of the Trade Negotiation on Monday confirmed the death of the Director-General to the agency, Ambassador Chiedu Osakwe .

    In a statement by the Head, Strategy and Communications, NOTN, Emenike Chibuzor, the DG died on the 22nd September 2019 in Geneva Switzerland after a brief illness.

    According to the statement, he was the Trade Adviser to the Nigerian Economic Management Team (EMT), and also a member of the Nigerian Industrial Policy and Competitiveness Advisory Council.

    “He served as the Chairman of the Negotiating Forum (NF) and Senior Trade Officials (STOs), for the negotiations on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), during which he led the AfCFTA Negotiating Institutions to finalize Stage 1, of the AfCFTA Negotiations (on Trade in Goods and Services), for signature by African Heads of State and Government.”

    The statement added that, “Prior to his appointment as DG/Chief Trade Negotiator Nigeria, Ambassador Osakwe was an Associate Professor on International Trade Policy, Diplomacy and Negotiations (on a leave of absence) at the International University in Geneva. He lectured globally and published extensively in peer-reviewed journals on a range of subjects, including trade policy; fiscal and monetary policies; and, structural reforms.

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    “At the World Trade Organization (WTO) where he worked for 19 years (1998-2017), he was a member of WTO Senior Management, serving as Director of the Divisions of Accessions as Doha Development Agenda Special Duties; Textiles; and, Technical Cooperation. He was also, Special Coordinator for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Head of the Secretariat Inter-Agency Working Group for the Integrated Framework for LDCs in the Office of the Director-General. He retired from the WTO Secretariat on 8 September 2017.”

    Ambassador Osakwe joined Nigerian Foreign Service on 23 July 1979 after his NYSC, where he worked till 4 May 1998. During this period, he served in various capacities at the headquarters of the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Lagos and then Abuja.

    As a Nigerian diplomat, Ambassador held a number of international positions. At the Permanent Mission in New York, he was Chairman of the UN Sub-Committee on the Legal Aspects of the Struggle against Apartheid (1984-1986).

    He is highly regarded for his knowledge and expertise on international trade policy, globally, and for his contributions to the WTO, African Union, ECOWAS and to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Funeral arrangements to be announced shortly.

  • Lionel Messi crowned FIFA best player for 2019

    Lionel Messi has been crowned ‘The Best FIFA Men’s Player 2019’ beating UEFA’s best player Virgil van Dijk and his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo.

    Barcelona striker Lionel Messi won the award on Monday for a record sixth time.

    In the ceremony at Teatro all Scala in Milan, Italy, Jurgen Van Klopp was also named men’s best coach, while Jill Ellis got the trophy as women’s coach.