February 2022 - CITY LAWYER MAGAZINE

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 27, 2022
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NBA-SPIDEL SUMMIT ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC RIGHTS HOLDS TODAY

The eagerly awaited “Town Hall Meeting” of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) will hold today at the Marriot Hotel, GRA, Ikeja.

The hybrid summit has the theme, “Justiciability of Chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution: Pragmatic Measures for Government’s Accountability.” Expected at the parley are judicial officers, political actors, legislators, lawyers and civil society leaders.

While all slots for in-person attendance have been fully taken up in compliance with COVID-19 protocols, intending participants can still be a part of the summit by registering at https://tinyurl.com/nbaspidelth2022.

Fiery human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana SAN is the Lead Presenter for First Plenary while Mr. Anthony Ojukwu SAN, Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is the Lead Presenter for Second Plenary. The Chairman of the summit is Justice Helen Ogunwumiju of the Supreme Court.

Discussants for the First Plenary are Justice Onuoha Ogwe, Chief Judge of Abia State; Hon. Luke Onofiok, Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary; Mr. Suleiman Usman SAN, Sokoto State Attorney-General & Commissioner for Justice; Mr. Emmanuel Okorodudu, Head of Democracy and Good Governance Unit at the ECOWAS Commission, Abuja and Mr. Kolawole Oluwadare, Deputy Director, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).

The discussants for Second Plenary include Mr. Olawale Fapohunda SAN, Ekiti State Attorney-General & Commissioner for Justice; Yemi Adamolekun, Executive Director, Enough is Enough (EiE); Ms. Cecilia Aransiola of Amnesty International; Mr. Samson Itodo of YIAGA Africa and Mr. Soji Apampa, Chief Executive at Integrity Organization. Both sessions will be moderated by ace broadcaster, Mr. Kayode Akintemi.

While Justice Ogunwumiju will give the Chairman’s Opening Remarks, Welcome Remarks will be delivered by NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata; NBA-SPIDEL Chairman, Dr. Monday Ubani, and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Steve Abar. The Vote of Thanks will be delivered by NBA-SPIDEL Secretary, Dr. Princess Frank-Chukwuani.

Organised by NBA-SPIDEL, the sessions coordinator is Mr. Kunle Ajagbe. The sponsors include Babalakin & Co., Digital Rights Lawyers Initiative, Y. C. Maikyau & Co. and JB Daudu & Co.

According to a statement by Dr. Monday Ubani, NBA-SPIDEL Chairman, “The aim of the Town Hall Meeting is to arouse the consciousness of critical institutions of government, particularly the Judiciary and Legislature, with a view to ensuring the enforcement of the basic socio-economic rights provided in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and other enabling laws for the benefit of the Nigerian people.

“The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) is desirous to see Nigerians enjoy the basic socio-economic rights provided in the Nigerian Constitution as well as other enabling laws,” adding that NBA-SPIDEL has a vision to make public interest and development law a fundamental aspect of national life and development.

According to the statement, SPIDEL which manifests NBA’s commitment to promoting the role and application of law to economic development and growth of public interest law in Nigeria, has been living up to its bidding.

In 2021, ahead of the sold-out NBA-SPIDEL yearly conference in Ibadan, Dr. Ubani had decried the delay in implementing provisions of the Constitution concerning autonomy of the judiciary.

“We want a judiciary that doesn’t go behind begging the executive to give them their resources in order to carry out the basic responsibilities that the constitution has imposed on them. We want a judiciary that can deliver justice without fear or favour, its long-term effect is what we are looking at, not probably because of the short-term losses we are suffering but I tell you this, if we succeed in doing this, we would have actually sorted out a very big problem for us as a nation. The issue of administration of justice is very key,” he had said.

Copyright 2022 CITY LAWYER. Please send emails to citylawyermag@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook at https://web.facebook.com/City-Lawyer-Magazine-434937936684320 and on TWITTER at https://twitter.com/CityLawyerMag. To ADVERTISE in CITY LAWYER, please email citylawyermag@gmail.com or call 08138380083. All materials available on this Website are protected by copyright, trade mark and other proprietary and intellectual property laws. You may not use any of our intellectual property rights without our express written consent or attribution to www.citylawyermag.com. However, you are permitted to print or save to your individual PC, tablet or storage extracts from this Website for your own personal non-commercial use.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 26, 2022
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Comments Off on ‘GUY IKOKWU: A LAWYER’S LIFE OF IMPACT,’ BY FRANK AGBEDO

‘GUY IKOKWU: A LAWYER’S LIFE OF IMPACT,’ BY FRANK AGBEDO

In this moving tribute, leading human rights activist and author, CHIEF FRANK AGBEDO describes deceased senior lawyer, Chief Guy Ikokwu as ‘a man of many parts who throughout his earthly sojourn, as a fiery unionist, successful politician, boardroom titan and legal luminary engaged in active private practice for over 61 years, was a golden voice of the voiceless, implacable tormentor of oppressors and indefatigable defender of truth no matter whose ox is gored….’

As shock and disbelief yield to reality; poignant recollections, testimonies and tributes on the life and times of our great Omenife, would at least, serve as a soothing balm to our frayed nerves and diminished humanity. Despite his good old age of 85 at death, Omenife’s demise was still viewed as being too early and too soon because of his incredible and purposeful life of impact and the inexhaustible fountain of his goodness.

This brief tribute is therefore in honour of a man of many parts who throughout his earthly sojourn, as a fiery unionist, successful politician, boardroom titan and legal luminary engaged in active private practice for over 61 years, was a golden voice of the voiceless, implacable tormentor of oppressors and indefatigable defender of truth no matter whose ox is gored, and as an outstanding leader and fearless defender of the Igbo cause, at all levels, was never found wanting. Indeed, for this ubiquitous persona, to fully comb deep and exhibit all his sterling qualities and bundle of achievements is nothing but a tall order, if not a labyrinth in which it is easy to make an ingress but difficult to find one’s way out of the maze.

He was such an engaging communicator. Whenever he stood up to speak at any fora everybody listened with keen interest. In 2020, sixteen leaders of socio-cultural groups from the South and Middle Belt had dragged President Buhari to a Federal High Court in Abuja to challenge the marginalization of their regions in key appointment into the security, paramilitary and strategic agencies of government, in clear and wanton violation of the Federal Character principles, as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution, amongst other egregious abuse of office and powers, and asking for N50 Billion in compensation against the Federal government. I was drafted by the Otu alongside Mazi Unegbu to represent the Southeast in the case, an assignment that is close to my heart, and in which we are determined to deliver on our mandate.

Chief Ikokwu, a dogged fighter for equity and justice, was in the tick of the action, as the representative of the Southeast region in the case. I recall with deep nostalgia, Omenife’s many self sponsored trips to the FHC at Abuja, to attend the proceedings in the case, registered as E.K.Clark & 15 Ors Vs The President, Federal Republic of Nigeria & 4 Ors in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/595/2020. As aptly rendered in a tribute by Emeka Nwadioke, Esq, the Otu Oka-Iwu Head of Publicity, “ Even in his twilight, he was eagerly in the trenches, waging one battle after another” and I dare to say, with visible positive results.

For all mortal being, death is a necessary end. There is a time to be born and a time to die. High Chief Guy Ikokwu, Great Lawyer, Elder Statesman, Notable Ohaneze Ndigbo Chieftain, Fiery Activist, Past President of Otu Oka-iwu Law Society, etcetera, has finished his race and left his footprints on the sand of time. Omenife will be sorely missed. May God’s perpetual light shine upon him and may his gentle soul rest in peace. Let us all- his immediate family, relations, especially Ezezue Chuks Ikokwu, his beloved brother, Ndi Otu, etc, find solace in his exemplary life and indelible legacies and the hope of a joyous reunion on the resurrection morning.

Adieu, Chief Guy Ikokwu, Omenife Oba. Ojeligbo Ozi. Kachifo

Chief Frank Agbedo, FIMC.
Chairman, Otu Oka-Iwu Public Interest Committee

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 26, 2022
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Comments Off on TAIDI MOURNS, AS GUY IKOKWU GOES HOME TODAY

TAIDI MOURNS, AS GUY IKOKWU GOES HOME TODAY

Immediate past Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) General Secretary, Mr. Jonathan Gunu Taidi has described deceased senior lawyer, Chief Guy Ikokwu as “a prominent legal practitioner, past President of Otu Oka-Iwu Lagos, Bar Leader and member of Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association,” saying that he lived an impactful life.

In a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, Taidi who is believed to be eyeing the post of NBA Presidency at the forthcoming NBA National Officers Elections, said that he received with “shock” the news of the passing of Ikokwu and recalled “the passion with which he followed up on issues affecting the well-being of Members of Otu Oka-Iwu in particular and those who sought his intervention generally.

“His death is a painful loss to his immediate family, Otu Oka-Iwu community and the Lagos Branch of the NBA.

“We all must be comforted by the fact that he lived an impactful and fulfilling life, and may God comfort his family, colleagues and friends while granting his soul eternal rest.”

Ikokwu will be buried today in his home town Oba in Anambra State.

Copyright 2022 CITY LAWYER. Please send emails to citylawyermag@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook at https://web.facebook.com/City-Lawyer-Magazine-434937936684320 and on TWITTER at https://twitter.com/CityLawyerMag. To ADVERTISE in CITY LAWYER, please email citylawyermag@gmail.com or call 08138380083. All materials available on this Website are protected by copyright, trade mark and other proprietary and intellectual property laws. You may not use any of our intellectual property rights without our express written consent or attribution to www.citylawyermag.com. However, you are permitted to print or save to your individual PC, tablet or storage extracts from this Website for your own personal non-commercial use.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 25, 2022
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Comments Off on SCANDAL ROCKS LPDC AS ANOTHER MEMBER QUITS

SCANDAL ROCKS LPDC AS ANOTHER MEMBER QUITS

More crisis has rocked the embattled Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC), an organ of the Body of Benchers, as another ranking member, Chief Ferdinand Orbih SAN has resigned from the august body.

In a resignation letter obtained by CITY LAWYER, Orbih stated that “My resignation stems from the events that took place at the meeting of the Body of Benchers on the 22nd November 2021, wherein, the Honourable Body assumed jurisdiction over the Petition of Lucius E. Nwosu SAN. Lucius Nwosu SAN in his Petition complained about the finding of the LPDC that a prima facie case had been made against him.”

CITY LAWYER recalls that the LPDC Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Ukala SAN had sensationally resigned as Chairman of the LPDC, citing the same reason for his action.

Continuing, Orbih, the fiery Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP), said: “It is my humble view that by assuming jurisdiction over the said Petition, the Body of Benchers was in clear breach of Section 12 (7) of the Legal Practitioners Act, which provides that appeals in respect of decisions of the LPDC, can only be entertained by the Supreme Court of Nigeria. Clearly, that section did not vest on the Body of Benchers, the power to seat as an appellate body over decisions of the LPDC.”

According to the respected senior lawyer, “The lawmaker gave the LPDC a great measure of independence because of the vital role it plays to ensure that the highest form of discipline is maintained amongst Legal Practitioners in Nigeria. That independence is obliterated when the Honourable Body brings the LPDC under its control and direction in clear violation of due process.”

“In the above circumstances, my continued membership of the LPDC has become untenable, as I can no longer in good conscience serve in that committee.

“I am therefore left with no other option, than to resign my membership of the LPDC. I am grateful to the Honourable Body of Benchers for the opportunity given to me, to be of service to the legal profession.”

Titled “NOTICE OF RESIGNATION AS MEMBER OF LEGAL PRACTITIONERS DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE” and addressed to the Secretary of the Body of Benchers, the letter was copied to the Chairman of the Body of Benchers, past Chairmen, Life Benchers and Honourable Benchers. Dated February 24, 2022 the resignation also became effective from yesterday.

It remains to be seen how this gale of resignations will affect the operations of the troubled Committee.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 24, 2022
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Comments Off on VACANCIES IN A LAGOS LAW FIRM

VACANCIES IN A LAGOS LAW FIRM

A reputable law firm based in Surulere, Lagos requires urgently the services of:

1) LEGAL PRACTITIONER with minimum 5 (five) years post-call experience.

The ideal candidate must have 2:1 grade at the Nigerian Law School or University, possess core litigation experience, and should be able to work without supervision.

2) LITIGATION ASSISTANT

The salary is competitive and in accordance with industry standards.

Interested candidates should email legaljobs77@gmail.com.

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 23, 2022
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SENIOR LAWYER JOINS NBA ABUJA ‘SOLAR FOR ALL’ LEAGUE

As power supply situation nationwide continues to be a matter of concern and the price of diesel keeps skyrocketing, efficient solar systems have proven a big relief for many homes and offices.

Leading Abuja based senior lawyer, Chief Okey Ajunwa has become the latest beneficiary of the “Solar For All” Promo, a partnership facilitated by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Abuja Branch with top solar power provider, Bricks and Castles Energy-Tech Ltd.

Said the company: “To get an efficient Solar/Inverter system for 24 hours Light, save at least half of your current power cost, while you ‘Pay Small small’ for up to Six Months, call Bricks and Castles Energy-Tech Ltd: 08050489622, 08060266163.”

The Company was at the state-of-the-art office of Chief Ajunwa where it installed a giant 10KVA Luminous Inverter System, with 15 biggest size Tubular Batteries, 32 German Solar Panels (300watts), 180v MPPT CHARGE CONTROLLER and other accessories to power two Inverter ACs and all other essentials in the office.

Among the elite list of Partners of the “Solar For All” Promo are the Alumni Association of UNILAG COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (CLASS 76 & 79), NBA Lagos Branch, BOSAN Abuja, Otu Oka-iwu Abuja, NBA Kano Branch, NBA Gwagwalada Branch, Medical Doctors at FMC Cooperative, and F. C. T. Pharmacies among others.

According to the company, among the leading lawyers already enjoying the services of the company are Chief Emeka Ngige SAN, Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN, Chief Tawo Tawo SAN, Chief Emeka Obegolu SAN, Sir Chike Ekeocha of Alex Izinyon SAN & Co/SUEX Nig.Ltd, Hon. Rodrich Ugwu, Chief Nic Omeye, and Mr. Ken Ugwuanyi.

Other beneficiaries from whom the efficiency of delivery can be verified, according to Bricks and Castles, include Chief J-K Gadzama SAN, Prince Adetosoye Adebiyi, Mr. Paul Daudu, Chief Peter Ilegogie, Aare Muyiwa Akinboro SAN, Aare Isiaka Olagunju SAN, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade SAN of SPA Ajibade SAN & Co, FIDA Nigeria (FIDA House Abuja), Prince Adetokunbo Kayode SAN, Mrs. Amina Agbaje (FIDA Nigeria CVP), Dr. Mrs Ayorinde of Ayorinde SAN & Co, Mrs. Mariam Agbabokha; Barr. Mrs. Rachel Ebun Akerele; Mr. Anthony Malik SAN, Chief Kemi Pinheiro SAN, Mr. I. M. Dikko SAN of Liman, Liman SAN & Co; Hon. Justice Emeka Nriezedi of the Anambra State Judiciary; Dr. Hassan Liman SAN, Chief J. U. K Igwe SAN, Mummy Sylvia Okoregbe, John Ochogwu Esq., Prof. Godson Ogbonna of Abia State University Uturu, Sir Austin Mwana, Mr. Thony Lyiod Onyemaizu, Dr. Agada Elachi, Mr. Zach Akubo of S. I. Ameh SAN & Co., Mr. Ime Edem-nse; Mr. Edafe Mrakpor, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ebedebiri Cottage Hospital of Sagbama LGA of Bayelsa State, Federal College of Education Warri, Nigerian Agricultural Seeds Council, Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators of Nigeria (ICMC), Chief R. N. Okeke and Sons Ltd of Wukari in Taraba State, and Alhaji Abdulrahman Adamu of the Trademoore Estate.

Other reputable organisations with whom the company has a thriving partnership include NBA Abuja, NBA Lagos, Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN) Abuja, Otu Oka-Iwu Abuja, NFIU Cooperative Society, NBA Kano Branch, NBA Gwagwalada Branch, Medical Doctors at FMC Cooperative, and FCT Pharmacies among others.

Said the company: “In case of any issue with the Inverter Machine, another Inverter is deployed before we take the one that needs attention for troubleshooting/repairs.”

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 23, 2022
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Comments Off on ‘PLAY CRUCIAL ROLES IN NBA, BRANCHES,’ GADZAMA URGES LAWYERS

‘PLAY CRUCIAL ROLES IN NBA, BRANCHES,’ GADZAMA URGES LAWYERS

The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Security Agencies Relations Committee, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has urged lawyers to play crucial roles in the growth of the legal profession.

Speaking as a Special Guest of Honour at the February monthly meeting of the Surulere Lawyers’ Forum (SLF), Gadzama who is also the Chairman of the Mentoring Committee of the Body of Benchers for Young Lawyers, urged the members to encourage unity among lawyers.

Below is the statement made available to CITY LAWYER.

Surulere Lawyers’ Forum Elder, Chief J-K GADZAMA, SAN presides over 2022 annual cutting of Valentine Cake.

It was a joyous homecoming for Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN when he attended the February monthly meeting of the Surulere Lawyers’ Forum (SLF) on February 16, 2022 as an elder and oldest member of the Forum. Recall that Chief Gadzama, SAN was formerly admitted as a member of SLF last year after the Forum welcomed him with open arms.

It is important to state that SLF whose membership cuts across tribes and tongues in Nigeria was founded in 2006 by its pioneer Chairman, Hon. (Chief) V. U. K. Iyanam (former Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice, Akwa-Ibom State) and consists of legal practitioners who live and or practice within Surulere. SLF is one of the well-coordinated and organised lawyers’ fora in Nigeria and has been growing in leaps and bounds since its establishment.

In his remarks at the meeting, Chief Gadzama, SAN encouraged members to be united in the pursuit of the goals and objectives of SLF as the Forum can achieve a lot when in unity. He also implored them not to relent in playing their critical roles in the affairs of the Nigerian Bar Association both in Lagos State and at National level. The elder statesman was thereafter invited to coordinate the cutting of cake in celebration of members whose birthdays fall within the month of love.

In attendance with Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN was Mr. Mela Nunghe, SAN, Messrs John Unachukwu Austin Esq, former publicity Secretary of the NBA and Oluniyi Adediji Esq, Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP, Lagos Office.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 23, 2022
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Comments Off on RPC: COURT FIXES MARCH 24 FOR NBA/MALAMI SUIT

RPC: COURT FIXES MARCH 24 FOR NBA/MALAMI SUIT

The Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Abubakar Malami SAN and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) will go head-to-head on March 24, 2022 at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court in the legal tussle on the controversial amendment of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners (RPC), CITY LAWYER can exclusively report.

This follows the assignment of the case filed by the NBA against Malami to Justice Donatus Okorowo of the Federal High Court.

According to a document obtained by CITY LAWYER, the case, INCORPORATED TRUSTEES OF THE NBA VS ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION has also been assigned Suit Number FHC/ABJ/CS/77/2022.

It is recalled that fiery NBA-SLP Chairman, Chief Ferdinand Orbih SAN had in an exclusive interview last December told CITY LAWYER that NBA would sue Malami unless he formally reversed amendment of the RPC.

Giving further insight into the matter, Orbih said: “The Section on Legal Practice under my leadership was mandated by the National President of the NBA to drive the process. Upon receipt of the mandate I (in my capacity as the Chairman of the SLP) constituted the Legal team led by S. I. Ameh, SAN to commence the action.”

Other members of the four-member legal team are Messrs Elisha Kurah SAN, Mba Ekpezu Ukweni SAN and immediate past NBA-SLP Chairman, Oluseun Abimbola SAN.

Orbih told CITY LAWYER that “The Attorney-General of the Federation was on television to disclaim the controversial Rules of Professional Conduct.

“However, we are aware that the RPC has been gazetted under his name. We have therefore informed the Honourable Attorney-General that a viva voce disclaimer of the RPC will not suffice in the circumstances.

“The NBA Legal Committee has decided to engage the AGF and afford him an opportunity to issue a proper disclaimer through a written instrument published in the gazette. We expect this to be done by next week.

“If at the end of the day this is not done, we will have no option than to carry out the mandate of the NBA to litigate the matter. Let me assure that this will not take long any more, as we have been on this matter for almost two years.”

Copyright 2020 CITY LAWYER. Please send emails to citylawyermag@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook at https://web.facebook.com/City-Lawyer-Magazine-434937936684320 and on TWITTER at https://twitter.com/CityLawyerMag. To ADVERTISE in CITY LAWYER, please email citylawyermag@gmail.com or call 08138380083. All materials available on this Website are protected by copyright, trade mark and other proprietary and intellectual property laws. You may not use any of our intellectual property rights without our express written consent or attribution to www.citylawyermag.com. However, you are permitted to print or save to your individual PC, tablet or storage extracts from this Website for your own personal non-commercial use.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 23, 2022
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Comments Off on NBA LAGOS CONFIRMS EFCC PROBE OF PAST REGIME

NBA LAGOS CONFIRMS EFCC PROBE OF PAST REGIME

The leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch has confirmed CITY LAWYER exclusive report that the immediate past branch administration is being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

CITY LAWYER had reported that the anti-graft agency had launched an unprecedented probe into the activities of the immediate past branch administration headed by senior lawyer, Mr. Yemi Akangbe.

Unimpeachable sources also told CITY LAWYER that three of the branch executives including the Branch Chairman, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna; Secretary, Ms. Nta Ekpiken and Treasurer, Mrs. Carol Obi had been grilled by EFCC operatives who demanded documentation on the previous regime’s activities following an anonymous petition against the administration.

Confirming the probe in a statement, Uwanna stated that the branch Executive Committee “is aware of an ongoing investigation by the EFCC regarding alleged procurement irregularities by the immediate past Branch Administration based on an anonymous petition.”

He also confirmed that the anti-graft agency had demanded documents relating to some transactions by the previous administration, saying: “Upon the EFCC’s request, we have made the records regarding all relevant procurement issues available to the EFCC.” He added that “We will continue to update members as events unfold.”

In a dramatic twist, the statement however described the CITY LAWYER report as “sensational,” adding that “the headline of the news report is misleading and casts aspersions on the image of the NBA Lagos Branch – an image that many have laboured so hard to build for over 60 years.”

A source within the Branch Executive Committee told CITY LAWYER that the grouse of the branch was that the report allegedly drew the current branch leadership into the debacle instead of singling out the immediate past regime as the administration on which EFCC’s searchlight is being beamed.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 23, 2022
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Comments Off on ENDSARS: NBA-SARC OBTAINS N10M FOR VICTIM OF POLICE BRUTALITY

ENDSARS: NBA-SARC OBTAINS N10M FOR VICTIM OF POLICE BRUTALITY

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC) has obtained a N10 million compensation for one Yemi Abdulkareem, a victim of police brutality.

According to a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, the committee intervened in a plethora of cases including Abdulkareem v NPF (LASG/JPI/233/2020), adding that Abdulkareem was “brutalized and killed” by a police officer during the EndSARS protest in 2020.

The statement by NBA National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Rapulu Nduka, said: “Consequently, his family petitioned on his behalf demanding for the sum of 10 Million Naira. Upon the intervention of the NBA-SARC with the Nigerian Police Force and through continued and sustained efforts, the petition was treated under the Police brutality cases. The petition by Yemi Abdulkareem’s family was found meritorious and the family was awarded the sum of 10 Million Naira by the EndSARS Lagos Judicial Panel.

“The family of Yemi Abdulkareem who was awarded the damages has since sent a message extending their gratitude to the NBA-SARC for its timely assistance and intervention in the above matter.”

The statement noted that “The NBA – SARC has continually sought for the cooperation of everyone in its quest to achieve significant success in its mandate and has further reiterated that Legal Practitioners who have, or are being unjustly intimidated, harassed, humiliated, or subjected to unwarranted hardship in the course of their interaction with any security agency, are enjoined to report same to the Committee via the telephone numbers of the NBA – SARC members earlier provided.”

It recalled that the NBA-SARC, chaired by Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN was constituted by the NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata at the National Executive Council meeting of Thursday, December 16, 2021 and inaugurated on Friday, January 7, 2022.

According to the statement: “Since then, the NBA-SARC is not resting on its oars, having continued in its relentless efforts at providing succour to legal practitioners who had been, or are being, harassed, detained and/or intimidated by security agencies across the country, especially in the course of the discharge of their professional duties to clients.

“It is worthy of note, that the Gadzama-led NBA – SARC, presently comprised of legal practitioners who have solid background in relations with security agencies; and/or relevant network in interfacing with security agencies across the country has left no stone unturned in its commitment to achieving its mandates.”

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 23, 2022
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Comments Off on OGUNWUMIJU, FALANA, OJUKWU, SERAP, OTHERS TACKLE SOCIO-ECONOMIC RIGHTS AT NBA-SPIDEL PARLEY

OGUNWUMIJU, FALANA, OJUKWU, SERAP, OTHERS TACKLE SOCIO-ECONOMIC RIGHTS AT NBA-SPIDEL PARLEY

Supreme Court jurist, Justice Helen Ogunwumiju will on Monday chair the eagerly anticipated Town Hall Meeting of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL).

The hybrid event which has the theme “Justiciability of Chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution: Pragmatic Measures for Government’s Accountability” is slated to hold at the exquisite Marriot Hotel in GRA Ikeja, Lagos. Expected at the parley are judicial officers, political actors, legislators, lawyers and civil society leaders.

While leading human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana SAN is the Lead Speaker, the discussants include Hon. Luke Onofiok, Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary; Mr. Anthony Ojukwu SAN, Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC); Justice Kazeem Alogba, Chief Judge of Lagos State; Justice Onuoha Ogwe, Chief Judge of Abia State; Yemi Adamolekun, Executive Director, Enough is Enough (EiE), and Mr. Kolawole Oluwadare, Deputy Director, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).

In 2021, ahead of the sold-out NBA-SPIDEL yearly conference in Ibadan, Dr. Ubani had decried the delay in implementing provisions of the Constitution concerning autonomy of the judiciary.

Organised by NBA-SPIDEL with NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata as the Chief Host, physical attendance at the venue is limited to only 200 persons in line with COVID-19 protocols while other participants will attend virtually.

To register, click on https://tinyurl.com/nbaspidelth2022

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 20, 2022
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Comments Off on EFCC PROBES NBA LAGOS BRANCH, GRILLS CHAIR, CONTRACTOR

EFCC PROBES NBA LAGOS BRANCH, GRILLS CHAIR, CONTRACTOR

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a massive probe into the activities of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch, CITY LAWYER can exclusively report.

A source who is familiar with the unprecedented probe of Nigeria’s “Premier Bar” told CITY LAWYER that the focus of the extensive investigation is on the contracts and financial dealings of the immediate past branch administration.

Impeccable sources told CITY LAWYER that the current Branch Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer have been grilled by the anti-graft agency “following an anonymous petition against the immediate past administration of the branch.” The source said that the officers were interrogated by EFCC operatives and told to provide documentation on the transactions on which the anti-graft agency is beaming its searchlight.

A source also told CITY LAWYER that Fresible Company Limited, the branch ICT service provider has also been interrogated by EFCC operatives.

The source said that the anti-graft agency is putting a searchlight especially on contracts for the branch Bar Centre project as well as payments for website development, branch bus purchase and hybrid monthly meetings among others.

According to an Executive Committee member of the immediate past administration, “No expense was approved by the Executive Committee. The procurement process was non-existent, as there was hardly any bidding for the contracts. There were no memos for expenditures. There were issues of conflict of interest in some of the contracts. There were no checks and balances. Can you imagine that N150 million was paid for the Bar Centre project without any EXCO meeting held to discuss the contract and on the ground only that it was approved by the Building Committee. Barely two weeks to the end of our tenure, another N50 million was paid on the excuse that the ‘payment is due.’ The Branch domain name renewal was effected every 6 months instead of the standard one-year renewal period. A last-minute hefty N150,000 was paid for HD presentation on the Bar Centre project.”

Speaking on the branch accounts for the year-ended May 31, 2021, its auditors, Messrs Olu Aladejebi & Co. (Chartered Accountants) wrote: “We observed that some memos that was (sic) raised/written were having the authorized persons’ on them but were not signed especially the ones for the (Bar Centre) construction.”

It also stated that “At the close of business as at May 31st 2021, the branch’s cash and cash equivalent stood at ₦220,420,065. This shows a decrease of ₦145,599,135 from last year’s figure, which is a 40% decrease over last year’s result of ₦366,019,200. This is as a result of on going construction work on Bar Centre building at Lekki.”

But another ranking Executive Committee member in the immediate past administration dismissed the probe as futile, saying that nothing would come out of it. He told CITY LAWYER that there were “no suspicious financial dealings” during their tenure, adding that payments on the Bar Centre were approved by the Building Committee chaired by Dr. Wale Babalakin SAN. He argued that it was not the role of the Executive Committee to oversight standing committees, adding that such committees had their terms of reference approved by the general meeting and also made periodic reports to the general meeting.

He dismissed alleged financial infractions relating to the website development and virtual meetings, stating that such matters were handled by the ICT Committee. He noted that all financial queries raised by members at general meetings were satisfactorily resolved, adding that while the new branch bus had “fixing” challenges, a committee was set up to resolve the debacle.

On the departure of then Legal Adviser, Mr. Harry Ukaejiofor from the Executive Committee WhatsApp platform, he argued that it was based on an attempt to “overreach himself” than a principled and persistent disagreement over the financial dealings and procedural safeguards.

While the probe is being discussed in hushed tones among a few of the branch members who have become aware of the petition, the immediate past Branch Chairman, Mr. Yemi Akangbe is yet to speak on the matter.

NBA LAGOS AGM ANNUAL REPORT

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 19, 2022
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GADZAMA HAILS EGBE AMOFIN, RECEIVES SARDAUNA PLATINUM AWARD

The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Security Agencies Relations Committee, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has commended Egbe Amofin O’odua for showing “an unwavering commitment to the protection and welfare of your members.”

In a goodwill message made available to CITY LAWYER to felicitate with the influential association of Yoruba lawyers, Gadzama who is also the Chairman of the Mentoring Committee of the Body of Benchers for Young Lawyers, noted that Egbe’s “unity as a body are indeed exemplary and I encourage you to keep it up.”

Meanwhile, the pioneer Chairman of the NBA Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) has received the Sir Ahmadu Bello Sardauna Sokoto Platinum Leadership Award from the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria.

According to a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, the award is in recognition of Gadzama’s “immense contribution towards purposeful leadership and youth involvement.”

It stated that “The Learned Silk who has distinguished himself as a philanthropist and a legal practitioner dedicated to the advancement of the legal profession was further recognized for his selfless service. In accordance with this, the Council also awarded the Learned Silk with the Medal of Honour as “Jarman Matassan Arewa/Icon & Cynosure of Judicial transformation.”

Below are the full texts of the statements.

JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, OFR, MFR, SAN, FNIALS, FICMC, DiplCArb, FNICArb, FCIArb, C.Arb.
Chairman, NBA-Security Agencies Relations Committee. Chairman, Mentoring Committee of the Body of Benchers for Young Lawyers. Chairman Advisory Board of Association Environmental Lawyers of Nigeria. Pioneer Chairman, NBA – Section on Public Interest and Development Law. Past Chairman Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. Abuja Chapter. Past Chairman, NBA, Abuja Branch. Life Bencher.

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO EGBE AMOFIN O’ODUA

Eyin Ara mi, It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the executives and members of the Egbe Amofin O’odua as you hold your meeting on Saturday, 19th February, 2022. As an association, you have relentlessly displayed an unwavering commitment to the protection and welfare of your members. Your ardent corporation and unity as a body are indeed exemplary and I encourage you to keep it up. I urge you all to participate effectively, cross-fertilize ideas whilst addressing issues that affect your distinguished members by contributing your quota to the promotion and development of your association and the legal practice. Please be assured of my best wishes and support, always. Thank you and God bless. E ku Ipade o.

CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN RECEIVES THE SIR AHMADU BELLO SARDAUNA SOKOTO PLATINUM LEADERSHIP AWARD FROM THE NORTHERN YOUTH COUNCIL OF NIGERIA

On Wednesday, February 16, 2022, the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria, in recognition of the immense contribution towards the purposeful leadership and youth involvement of Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN, honoured the Learned Silk with the Sir Ahmadu Bello Sardauna Sokoto platinum leadership award.

The Learned Silk who has distinguished himself as a philanthropist and a legal practitioner dedicated to the advancement of the legal profession was further recognized for his selfless service. In accordance with this, the Council also awarded the Learned Silk with the Medal of Honour as “Jarman Matassan Arewa/Icon & Cynosure of Judicial transformation. The representatives of the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria concluded by thanking the Learned Silk for his relentless commitment towards youth development in Nigeria and described the Learned Silk as a “Pathfinder for Northern Youth”. The award was received on behalf of the Learned Silk by the Managing Partner of J-K Gadzama LLP, Mr. Francis Oronsaye MCIArb. at J-K Gadzama Court, Abuja.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 12, 2022
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GADZAMA LAUDS EASTERN BAR, LAW TEACHERS; RECEIVES NBA ABUJA AWARD

The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Security Agencies Relations Committee, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has commended the Eastern Bar Forum (EBF) for its “tremendous impacts to the welfare and mandate of the Nigerian Bar Association within and outside the Eastern Region of Nigeria.”

Gadzama, who is also the Chairman of the Mentoring Committee of the Body of Benchers for Young Lawyers, also lauded the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers (NALT) on her 53rd Annual Conference for being “a citadel of scholarship and learning in diverse areas of legal jurisprudence and the development of moral and civic character of all persons who pass through her portals.”

Turning to Anaocha Branch of the NBA, the chartered arbitrator and pioneer Chairman of the NBA Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) said: “I applaud the executives and the distinguished members of the Anaocha branch of the Nigerian Bar Association for their dexterity in leadership and usual cooperation with the Bar.”

A similar goodwill message was issued to NBA Owerri Branch.

Meanwhile, NBA Abuja Branch (Unity Bar) has given an award to Gadzama for his philanthropy and “meritorious contributions to the NBA Abuja Branch.” The award was received on his behalf by Mr. Madu Joe-Kyari Gadzama, a Partner at J-K Gadzama LLP.

Responding, Gadzama promised to give the Branch 10 slots for lawyers between 1-7 years post-call to intern with his law firm for 6 months. He added that the best intern will receive automatic employment with the firm.

He disclosed that Mr. Jerry Ombugado Musa, the Branch Financial Secretary and a Junior Partner at J-K Gadzama LLP will anchor the process.

Below are full texts of the goodwill messages.

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO (NBA) EASTERN BAR FORUM
With great joy and profound regards, I applaud the executives and the distinguished members of the Eastern Bar Forum of the Nigerian Bar Association for their sterling qualities, unwavering solidarity and usual cooperation with the Bar. The NBA – Eastern Bar Forum has continuously made tremendous impacts to the welfare and mandate of the Nigerian Bar Association within and outside the Eastern Region of Nigeria. I admire your courage, resilience in and unreserved dedication to the NBA. Hence, I urge you to please continue in your spirit of togetherness and commitment to the development of the Eastern Bar and the entire Nigerian Bar at large. As you all gather to deliberate in yet another meeting, I wish you fruitful deliberations and pray that impactful and curative resolutions stem out of your discussions. Please be assured of my loyalty and support. Thank you and God bless.

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO NBA OWERRI BRANCH
Fellow Colleagues, Members, Executives of the NBA-Owerri Branch, I wholeheartedly felicitate with you on the occasion of the commissioning of H.R.H. EZE B.S.C. Nzenwa Exco Chambers in the Bar Centre, the launching of the NBA-Owerri New Website and unveiling of the photo gallery of all past Chairmen of NBA-Owerri scheduled to hold on Thursday, 10th February, 2022. I profusely appreciate the membership of NBA-Owerri for accepting me as one of you. I am truly honoured. The NBA-Owerri Branch has always heralded insightful contributions to the Eastern Bar Forum, Nigerian Bar and legal profession through her offering of selfless support. This dedication to duty has positively influenced the personal lives and career of all members. I commend your professionalism and steadfast support and urge you to continue making laudable landmarks in the Nigerian Bar, legal profession and society at large.

I wish you an enjoyable evening as you convene to celebrate the great accomplishments of the branch and commemorate the good leadership of the Past Chairmen of the Branch. I pray that God continues to bring the aspirations of this noble association to fruition. Please be assured of my continual commitment and support.

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO NIGERIAN ASSOCIATION OF LAW TEACHERS
I felicitate with the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers on this glorious occasion of her 53rd Annual Conference tentatively scheduled to hold from Tuesday, 8th February, 2022 to Thursday, 10th February, 2022. The Nigerian Association of Law Teachers has always been a citadel of scholarship and learning in diverse areas of legal jurisprudence and the development of moral and civic character of all persons who pass through her portals. Undoubtedly, the institution has contributed immensely to the development of the legal profession Nigeria. I must also commend the thematic subjects you have chosen for this years’ annual conference. I consider them topical issues which touch us all, as Lawyers, Academicians and members of the society. It is an honour for me to be part of this epoch-making event as the Nigerian Association of Law Teachers marks her 53rd Annual Conference. I believe this occasion will elicit aspirations towards making laudable landmarks in the legal profession and Nigeria at large. I commend your professionalism and steadfast support and urge you to continue making laudable landmarks in the Nigerian Bar, legal profession and society at large. Please be assured of my continual support and loyalty.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 12, 2022
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ZONING: OJO REPLIES ECNBA, SAYS ‘I’VE WARNED IN ADVANCE’

Fiery senior lawyer and former Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Constitution Review Committee, Mr. Olasupo Ojo has reacted to the response of the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA) to his enquiry on the NBA Constitution, saying that it was designed as an “advance warning signal” to the electoral body.

Speaking with CITY LAWYER in reaction to the ECNBA response, Ojo said that he is “satisfied that I brought the issue raised in my letter to the attention of the ECNBA to alert them and give them advance warning signal and assist the Committee in the discharge of their onerous functions bearing in mind the negative history of NBA elections.”

Continuing, Ojo said he was “satisfied with the assurance given by the ECNBA” as contained in their reply to his letter “especially their comforting undertaking as men and women of integrity” to the effect “that the ECNBA will administer the applicable rules fairly and firmly at all times”.
According to the senior lawyer, “I believe they already have notice of the issues raised in my letter and will avoid the identified pitfall by all means. This is the best assistance all of us stakeholders can render to the ECNBA in all sincerity.

“I appreciate the ECNBA for their prompt reply which further confirms their awareness that stakeholders are watching every step they take as they proceed with the daunting task. I shall keep watching because vigilance is the price of liberty. I wish the ECNBA success.”

CITY LAWYER had in an exclusive report unveiled ECNBA’s response to Ojo enquiry which many observers of NBA politics believe is targeted at the zoning of NBA offices. Some observers believe that a strict interpretation of the NBA Constitution may weed out some leading NBA presidential aspirants, leaving former NBA presidential candidate, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN as the sole candidate.

The ECNBA has respected Bar Leader, Mr. Richard Akintunde SAN as Chairman. Other members are Ms. Mabel Ekeke (Secretary); former chairman of the board of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Prof. Chidi Odinkalu; former NBA Treasurer, Aisha Ado-Abdulahi and ICT expert, Mr. Basil Udotai.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 12, 2022
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LAWYER PETITIONS CAC TO REJECT NEW NBA CONSTITUTION

Former Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Constitution Review Committee, Mr. Olasupo Ojo has urged the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to reject the newly amended NBA Constitution, saying it contains provisions not approved at the recent NBA Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Port Harcourt.

In an objection letter obtained by CITY LAWYER and addressed to the CAC Registrar General, Mr. Abubakar Garba, the fiery senior lawyer said that he was writing “to formally object to your Commission’s approval of the purported amendments now seeking to repeal the Extant Constitution.”

According to Ojo, “Contrary to the provisions of section 833 above, the NBA by its Notice now seeks to repeal the Extant Constitution pursuant to Sections 28 and 29 of the proposed Nigerian Bar Association Constitution 2021 while no such resolution to repeal was ever passed. Find attached herewith as Annexure 3, the Resolutions passed at the 2021 Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) of the NBA, held on the 28th day of October, 2021 at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Elekahia, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, which clearly shows that no resolution was made to repeal the Extant Constitution.”

In the letter titled “NOTICE OF OBJECTION TO REPEAL OF THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION CONSTITUTION, 2015 (AS AMENDED IN 2019), Ojo argued that the NBA “duly adopted and passed the resolution to amend the Extant Constitution at the 2021 Annual General Meeting,” adding that “Contrary to the foregoing state of fact and resolutions of the AGM, it now appears that the NBA had inadvertently inserted the following into the proposed NBA Constitution 2021 which purports to now repeal the extant Constitution:

i. Insertion of Sections 28 and 29 which purports to Repeal the Extant Constitution.

ii. Insertion of a Cover which reads: Nigeria Bar Association Constitution 2021.”

The Bar Leader stated that the process for the amendment of a Constitution “is entirely different, separate and distinct from the process for enacting a brand-new Constitution. As with the instant case, since no such notice was given to repeal the extant Constitution, the 2021 Annual General Meeting of the NBA could not have had the mandate or powers to repeal the extant NBA Constitution, especially since the AGM only had a notice to amend.”

Ojo said that the 2021 NBA AGM “has never purported to have repealed the 2015 Constitution, but merely amended same.” He added that “It is also trite that for the Extant Constitution to be repealed, there must be a 60 days’ Notice to such effect.”

He stated that “the crux of my objection, in precis, is on the grounds that the AGM only had notice to amend the Extant Constitution, and duly adopted and passed resolution to so amend. The present sections 28 and 29 of the proposed NBA Constitution 2021, seeks to outrightly repeal the Extant Constitution. To duly so repeal the Extant Constitution, there should have been 60 days’ notice to such effect in accordance with Section 20(1) of the Extant Constitution. This was however, not the case. Therefore, the 2021 AGM of the NBA held on the 28th day of October, 2021 at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Elekahia, Port Harcourt, Rivers State could not have duly adopted and passed any resolution (which it never claims to have passed) repealing the Extant Constitution.”

He prayed the CAC to reject the amendment as proposed, adding that he is “by this letter formally objecting to repeal the Extant Constitution as contained in sections 28 and 29 of the proposed NBA Constitution 2021, as same is not a true reflection of the resolutions reached at the AGM and notice to repeal, not having been circulated as mandated by the Extant Constitution.”

He urged the CAC to “uphold this objection” by refusing to register and approve the proposed “Nigerian Bar Association Constitution 2021” for failure to reflect amendments, for which proper notice had been given, duly approved and passed by the AGM.

He also urged the Commission to request the NBA to amend the cover of the proposed NBA Constitution 2021 to read as follows: “Nigerian Bar Association 2015 Constitution (as amended in 2021),” adding that that “is a true reflection of the resolution of the AGM.”

Ojo prayed the Commission to “further mandate the NBA to delete Sections 28 and 29 therein wrongly, unlawfully and illegally inserted into the proposed Nigerian Bar Association Constitution 2021” and “to resubmit a corrected version of its Constitution reflecting amendments, for which proper notice had been given, duly approved and passed by the AGM.”

In a “Forwarding letter” to the NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata also dated February 4, 2021 Ojo stated that the Public Notice “is an indication of your willingness to accommodate diverse views, comments and sincere commitment to due process.”

“I greatly commend your open mindedness sir,” said Ojo, “and further to the said public notice, I now hereby forward herewith a copy of my Notice of Objection on the referenced subject to the Corporate Affairs Commission (“CAC”), as demanded in the said Public Notice.”

Intimating Akpata of the kernel of his objection letter to CAC, Ojo said that it is “premised on the likelihood of innocent mistakes from the NBA National Secretariat, in the compilation of the proposed amendments to the Extant Constitution. I say so because I am well aware that the AGM only had notice to amend the Extant Constitution, and duly adopted and passed resolution to so amend. The present sections 28 and 29 of the proposed NBA Constitution 2021, seeks to outrightly repeal the Extant Constitution. Even the cover of the proposed amendment reads: Nigerian Bar Association Constitution 2021. Which further gives the semblance that the Extant Constitution has been repealed.”

It is recalled that Ojo had also petitioned the CAC against amendment of the 2015 NBA Constitution. In a petition with Ref No. CAC/IT/MIA/No.2365 dated 14 September, 2016, Ojo had argued that the 2015 Constitution (as amended), for which the endorsement of the CAC is being sought “belatedly,” did not amend or alter the subsisting 2001 NBA Constitution approved by the CAC.

CITY LAWYER investigation shows that the amendment debacle may not be unconnected with the forthcoming NBA Election, especially as it affects provisions of the NBA Constitution on the zoning of offices. A frontline Bar Leader told CITY LAWYER that if the amendment sails through as currently proposed by the NBA, the zoning arrangement may start afresh instead of track back to the 2015 NBA Constitution (amended).

The citation for the proposed NBA Constitution reads: “This Constitution may be cited as the Nigerian Bar Association Constitution, 2021 and comes into effect this 28th day of October 2021 upon its adoption by the Annual General Meeting.”

The NBA leadership is yet to respond to Ojo’s objection at press time.

CAC_LETTER_OJO

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 11, 2022
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MAIKYAU/TAIDI: ECNBA REPLIES OJO, VOWS TO ENFORCE NBA CONSTITUTION

The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) has responded to the enquiry by fiery senior lawyer, Mr. Olasupo Ojo seeking clarification on the zoning of NBA offices in the forthcoming National Officers Election.

In a letter obtained by CITY LAWYER and dated 1st February, 2022, the Committee declined the query posed by Ojo, pleading that “The duties of the ECNBA are governed by the statutory instruments of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and does not, regrettably at the moment, extend to providing advisory opinions.”

The Committee in the letter signed by Mr. Richard Akintunde SAN and Ms. Mabel Ekeke, its Chairman and Secretary respectively, however assured Ojo that it would “administer the applicable rules fairly and firmly at all times.”

CITY LAWYER had reported that Ojo sought a clarification from the ECNBA on the import of section 9(3) of the NBA Constitution and paragraphs 2.2(b) & 2.2(d) of the Second Schedule on the 2022 NBA National Officers’ Election.

Watchers of NBA politics believe that an interpretation of the provisions may lead to the disqualification of two leading presidential aspirants for the 2022 NBA poll, namely Messrs Yakubu Maikyau SAN and Jonathan Taidi, leaving the coast clear for another presidential aspirant, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN.

Below is the full text of the letter to Ojo.

Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association ecnba@nigerianbar.org.ng

1st February 2022

Olasupo Ojo, Esq
Lawbold
No. 4 Nurudeen Street
Anifowose, Ikeja
Lagos.

Sent by Email: olasupo.ojo@gmail.com

Dear. Mr. Ojo,

RE: YOUR ENQUIRY AS TO THE IMPORT OF SECTION 9(3) OF THE NBA CONSTITUTION AND PARAGRAPHS 2.2(B) & 2.2(D) OF THE SECOND SCHEDULE ON THE 2022 NBA NATIONAL OFFICERS’ ELECTION

We thank you for your letter, Ref: OO/ECNBA/ABJ/ECNBA/02/22 of the 25th January 2022 in respect of the above.

The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) has carefully reviewed the contents of your letter and note your request. The duties of the ECNBA are governed by the statutory instruments of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and does not, regrettably at the moment, extend to providing advisory opinions.

You can nevertheless be rest assured that the ECNBA will administer the applicable rules fairly and firmly at all times. We thank you once again for your continuing interest in the work of the ECNBA.

All our very best.

Yours sincerely,

Ayodele Akintunde, SAN, C.Arb Mabel Ekeke
Chairman, ECNBA Secretary, ECNBA

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 06, 2022
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OSIBANJO, GBAJABIAMILA, OLANIPEKUN TO STORM UNILAG LAW ALUMNI REUNION

Nigeria’s Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo SAN and other dignitaries have been slated to speak on “Stare Decisis and the Future of Legal Practice” in Nigeria at the maiden Alumni Reunion of the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos. Also expected at the ceremony is Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker, House of Representatives, among others.

The Chairman of the Faculty of Law Alumni Relations Committee, Professor Taiwo Osipitan SAN, who disclosed this while briefing journalists, noted that the reunion tagged ‘The great homecoming’ was aimed to sensitise the alumni of the faculty and provide a platform for bonding among the past and present students.

Osipitan noted that the five-day event starting on February 7 to February 12, 2022, would have Prof. Fidelis Oditah (SAN) as the Keynote Speaker at the colloquium.

He said: “The faculty is one of the first faculties when the University of Lagos was established in 1962 and it has over the years produced some of the best lawyers and legal minds in the country.

“This year, the university and the faculty would roll out the red carpet to celebrate the university diamond jubilee anniversary.

“Our alumni have continued to give a good account of themselves in ivory towers, on the bench and bar, in the corporate world, politics and public service.

“A colloquium is scheduled for Thursday, February 10 at 9am with distinguished alumni in the persons of Senator Bashir Ajibola and the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Ade Ipaye, amongst others speaking on stare decisis and the future of the legal practice.”

Speaking further, Osipitan noted that “The great homecoming will be a five-day event which will kick off at 9 am of February 7 with a formal opening ceremony at the Faculty of Law.

“Thereafter, invited alumni among whom are judges, Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), private legal practitioners and those in the corporate business world will serve as guest lecturers on that day and the two subsequent days, February 7 to 9.

”Justice Helen Ogunwunmiju (JSC), Justice Oluwatoyin Ipaye of the High Court of Lagos and Justice Oyejoju Oyewunmi of the National Industrial Court are among our guest lecturers.”

The committee chairman further noted that other events that would mark the occasion would be a colloquium, scheduled for Feb. 10.

He added that the high-point of the event would be a dinner with Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) as well as Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, in attendance.

Mrs. Funke Agbor (SAN), Deputy Chairperson of the association said it was the beginning of good things to come to their Alma Mata.

She further assured of improved teaching and learning environment for the faculty, noting that the association was working on plans to donate a befitting structure that would serve purposes, for both the students and members of staff.

UNILAG LAW ALUMNI COLLOQUIUM

STREAM SCHEDULE
Thursday 10th February 2022 | 9:00 AM West Central Africa

Please click the link below to join the event via Zoom Streaming
https://bit.ly/unilaglawalumnicolloquium

Or use the Webinar ID:
870 1022 4582

You can also watch the UNILAG LAW ALUMNI DINNER

STREAM SCHEDULE
Saturday 12th February 2022 | 5:00 PM West Central Africa

Please click the link below to join the event via Zoom Streaming
https://bit.ly/unilaglawalumnidinner

Or use the Webinar ID:
820 7998 9213

NOTE: You will need to download and install the Zoom app on your mobile device or your PC to access this Livestream.

Both events will be streamed on YouTube via the link below:
https://bit.ly/unilaglawalumnievents

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 06, 2022
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TOBENNA EROJIKWE AND QUEST FOR ‘WORLD-CLASS’ AGC 2022

The appointment of Mr. Tobenna Erojikwe as Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Technical Committee on Conference Planning (TCCP) for the 2022 Annual General Conference may have come to many NBA watchers as a surprise.

Announcing the establishment of the TCCP, Akpata had said: “As we approach the twilight of the current administration of the NBA, it is important that we begin early preparations for the next NBA-AGC, during which I and other serving national officers of the NBA will hand over to a newly elected administration. To this end, I am writing to announce the constitution of the Technical Committee on Conference Planning (TCCP) for the 2022 NBA-AGC.” He added that the committee “is tasked with the responsibility of delivering a world class NBA-AGC in August 2022.”

Save for his foray into NBA Lagos Branch affairs where, as a two-term Chairman, Erojikwe successfully led the Continuing Legal Education & Mentorship Committee (later Continuing Professional Development Committee) of the Branch, Erojikwe is not reckoned as your typical “Bar Man” of yore.

All that seemed to have changed especially with his role as the anchor for NBA President Olumide Akpata’s frenzied quest to lead the Bar. Erojikwe once described Akpata as a “Transformational Servant Leader and the number 1 Change Agent.” That Erojikwe and his team delivered on the task is in full public glare. CITY LAWYER investigation shows that Erojikwe has since become one of the President’s Men, a most trusted and valued aide and confidant.

Reckoned by many NBA watchers as the new-kid-on-the-block, Erojikwe’s performance since March 2021 as Chairman of the Governing Board of Institute of Continuing Legal Education (NBA-ICLE) has cemented his rising profile as a Bar Leader to watch. The revamped NBA-ICLE has under his leadership hosted several capacity building trainings for lawyers at zero cost, including the 16-Day Introductory Training on Energy Law and Policy For Lawyers; 8-Day Civil Litigation Training; Introduction to Intellectual Property Rights; Media and Technology Law Practice; Practical Insights into the Nigerian Tax System; Legal Aspects of Finance: Overview, Issues & Documentation, and more recently, another training on Entertainment Law (Entertainment Law Series: The media and entertainment ecosystem – A global legal perspective) delivered by a faculty from the United States law firm of Akin Gump Strauss and Feld.

CITY LAWYER recalls that Erojikwe had, as Chairman of NBA Lagos Branch Continuing Professional Development Committee, anchored the NBA Section on Business Law (NBA/SBL) collaboration with the branch in setting up a Law Firm Mentorship Initiative. He was a member of NBA Lagos Branch Executive Committee and a member of the NBA National Executive Committee (NBA-NEC).

And to think that his foray into NBA affairs essentially started with a request to help develop and implement a strategy for a new direction for NBA Lagos Branch then under the leadership of Mr. Chukwuka Ikwuazom, SAN as well as an invitation by Akpata to co-ordinate the Entertainment Law segment (tagged an ‘Evening with RMD’) of the 2016 NBA/ SBL Conference.

Erojikwe is a Partner in the fast rising law firm of The Law Crest (TLC). He heads the firm’s Finance and Energy Practice Group. He is admitted to practise in Nigeria and in England and Wales. He is reputed to have had “significant practice experience” in both jurisdictions.

His core areas of practice are energy and natural resources; corporate finance; project finance; public-private partnerships, and mergers and acquisitions. He has been involved in most of the firm’s energy and natural resources transactions. Recent transactions in this area include advising the borrower in a US$450 million financing in respect of a participating interest in an oil mining lease, and advising the acquirer in the acquisition of a major oil servicing company as part of an offshore takeover of the parent company. He currently leads the team advising the acquirer in a US$600 million debt restructuring and acquisition for a major oil and gas company in Nigeria.

Erojikwe has also done significant work in project finance and public private partnerships in Nigeria and worked on various ground breaking project finance and public private partnership initiatives when he worked as Legal Adviser to the London Borough of Barnet on Urban Regeneration Projects.

A member of the Law Society of England and Wales, Erojikwe has, in the course of his career, facilitated training courses accredited by the Law Society of England and Wales which focus on infrastructure development and urban law.

Erojikwe obtained a bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB) from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and was admitted to the Nigerian Bar in 2000. He was also admitted as a solicitor of the senior courts of England and Wales in 2005. He holds a Master of Laws (LL. M.) degree in Corporate Finance Law from the University of Westminster. In 2020, Who is Who Legal (WWL) described him as an “excellent” lawyer who draws praise from his “wealth of experience” and “great understanding” of the energy sector.

Other members of the TCCP are Ronke Adeyemi; Mustapha Imam; Olumide Babalola; Inemisit Dike (Secretary); Blessing Udofia-Poromon; Orji Uka; Ada Obinna Edozie; Rotimi Ogunyemi; Jonathan Agbo; Nta Ekpiken; and Omobayode Okelola

Ex-Officio members include Chief Ferdinand Orbih SAN, Chairman NBA- SLP; Mr. Ayuli Jemide, Chairman NBA – SBL; Dr. Monday Ubani, Chairman, NBA–SPIDEL; Prof. Oluyemisi Bamgbose SAN, Chairperson, NBA Women Forum, and Mr. Tobi Adebowale, Chairman, NBA Young Lawyers Forum.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 05, 2022
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EX SUPREME COURT CHIEF REGISTRAR HONOURED BY ZULUM, GADZAMA, OTHERS

Dignitaries from all walks of life gathered at the International Conference Center, Abuja to celebrate the immediate past Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Hajiya Hadizatu Uwani Mustapha, during the unveiling of her biography titled “Hajiya Hadizatu U. Mustapha: From Headgirl to Supreme Court”.

Among those who attended the event were the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum (represented by the State Deputy Governor); the Attorney-General of Ekiti State, Mr. Wale Fapohunda SAN; former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki; Senator Kashim Shettima; Hon. Justice Tijjani JSC; Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN; Mr. Damian Dodo, SAN; Hajiya Aisha el-Rufai; Hon. Ahmadu Usman Jaha, and Hon. Asabe Vilita.

Speaking at the occasion, Gadzama who is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of Maiduguri Alumni Association, said that “Hajiya Hadizatu has rightly been described as a worthy daughter of Borno State and we wish her the best in her future endeavours.” He launched the books on behalf of himself and the association and extolled the virtues of the celebrant with great delight. An indigene of Borno State, Hadiza is an alumna of the prestigious University of Maiduguri.

Meanwhile, the chief unveiler, Sen. Kashim Shettima, while inviting Gadzama to launch some copies of the book, commended him for his humility and contributions. He noted Gadzama was the first Senior Advocate of Nigeria from Borno State and from the North Eastern Nigeria.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Feb 05, 2022
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OYO STATE COURTS: THE TASK BEFORE MAKINDE

In this article, MR. IBRAHIM LAWAL, Head of Chamber, Olujinmi & Akeredolu, decries the squalid state of infrastructure at the Oyo State High Court of Justice, Ring Road, Ibadan and urges Governor Seyi Makinde to replicate the revamp of his private residence around Kolapo Isola Estate with the court premises

The Oyo State High Court of Justice, Ring Road, Ibadan, is the seat of the judiciary, the third arm of government. Apart from the fact that it hosts more than fifteen Court Rooms, the office of the Chief Judge of the State is there. The Judicial Service Commission, a body saddled with the responsibility of taking care of the appointment and welfare of judicial officers, has its office within the premises. It also houses the Probate Registry as well as the Court Registry.

This complex, arising from its centrality to the filing of judicial processes and the nature of the services it renders to the members of the public, attracts a constant stream of vehicular and human traffic. It is patently unjust for the Government to leave the whole complex in its present squalid circumstances. It has become urgent for the managers of administrative affairs in the State to address this deplorable situation.

A new visitor to the Court premises may be compelled to believe that all is well, especially when he/she does not have any reason to move beyond the first Car Park. Any venture into the so called extension, the second car park, reveals putrescence. Nobody with a modicum of self-respect will attempt a revisit after the first experience. Cars, drivers, litigants and lawyers bear the unmistakable imprimatur of pervasive decadence, occasioned by perennial neglect. Construction site workers have better tales to tell. Visitors to the premises are most reluctant to repeat the unpleasant duty, if they are obliged to do so. Lawyers and litigants have sorry tales of embarrassing moments during their visits. The roads are simply impassable and messy. The Court Rooms need urgent attention. They are too hostile to the business of adjudication which requires deep intellection. They are repulsive to decency. It is unjust to have the courts in the erstwhile capital of the defunct Western Region, the most advanced in all ramifications, reduce to a huge joke.

May we appeal to the Executive arm of government to come to the aid of the judiciary as urgently as the current partisan consideration will permit. The current hardship can be mitigated by the Governor. He is a man of exquisite taste. The intervention of the State at his private residence around Kolapo Isola Estate is a pointer to the quality of job he can bring to existence. We will not be asking for too much if we demand that the Governor intervene to save the Judiciary from further mockery.

* Ibrahim Lawal is the Head of Chamber, Olujinmi & Akeredolu.

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