The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Port Harcourt Branch has published the manifestos and curriculum vitae of gladiators for the forthcoming branch elections scheduled for June 27, 2024.

Also unveiled by the committee are the campaign flyers of the candidates already cleared for the election.

Among those whose manifestos have been unveiled is the pioneer female branch secretary Cordelia Eke who is aspiring to make history as also the pioneer female chairman of the highly influential branch.

Others to slug it out with Eke, who is viewed as a leading candidate, are Geoffrey Joseph and Felicia Nwoke.

Among the list of candidates whose manifestos were published are Ezechimenum Adums, Chijioke Amadi, Modupe Babalola, Elijah Briggs, Kelechi Chinule, Mary Samuel and Cordelia Eke. Others are Cleopas Esu, Atonye Ezekiel-Hart, Francis Ibekwe-Allagoa, Emmanuel John, Geoffrey Joseph, Nnenda Kejeh, Felicia Nwoke, Obumneme Nwoye and David Onyema.

While Amadi and John are to slug it out for the position of Vice Chairman, Briggs and Nwoye will duel for the influential position of Branch Secretary.

The race for Assistant Secretary is between Esu and Ibekwe-Allagoa while Babalola and Ezekiel-Hart will battle for the position of Financial Secretary.

Candidates who are going into the election as unopposed include Chinule (Publicity Secretary), Onyema (Welfare Secretary), Kejeh (Treasurer), Mary Dikibo (Social Secretary) and Adums (Provost).

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FEATURED

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For this erudite, cerebral and distinguished SAN, it is a second bite on the Solar cherry, as we were at his Ibadan office for a 10KVA Solar System installation to power two Air Conditioners and other necessary appliances.

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MUSIBAU ADETUNBI SAN is an experienced legal practitioner who derives joy in tackling complex cases be it criminal or civil. His wide and deep experience in litigation has been used by him to lead the law firm to victory in complex and extremely challenging litigation cases in several areas of law such as banking, criminal law, election petition, real estate, maritime, arbitration, customary law, law of tort and intellectual property. His exploits in litigation have earned him several favourable judgments in all the superior courts of record in Nigeria. He has equally been highly commended by all these courts.

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• The views expressed in this featured report are entirely those of the author.

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Dear NBA Community,

I would like to address the recent disqualification in the NBA 2024 Elections, despite the perceived overreach of the electoral committee’s powers. While I firmly believe that the committee acted beyond their authorized scope, and in fact did act ultra vires its powers contrary to the provisions of the NBA Constitution 2024 [As amended 2021], I acknowledge their decision and respect the process.

Maintaining the integrity of the electoral process within the NBA is of utmost importance. It ensures fairness, equity, transparency, and equal opportunities for all candidates participating in the elections. By upholding the integrity of the electoral process, the NBA demonstrates its commitment to democratic principles and reinforces the trust and confidence of its members and stakeholders.

Although I strongly believe in the importance of free, fair and transparent elections, it is crucial to maintain the integrity of the electoral process within the NBA. Whilst I maintain my disagreement with the committee’s actions, I understand that it is essential to uphold the rules and regulations that govern the process and especially the Constitution of the NBA.

However, we must scrutinize the actions and decisions of the ECNBA 2024, and indeed the NOEAC 2024. The actions and decisions of both Committees have been at variance with and contrary to the NBA Constitution.

Section 10, of Part VIII, 2nd, Schedule of the Constitution of the NBA, specifically provides the only five grounds for the disqualification of Candidates, which states that:-

“Subject to the provisions of this constitution, a member shall not be eligible for election as a National Officer or Representative to the General Council of the Bar if he/she:-
(a) is not a Nigerian Citizen;
(b) is a member of a political party in Nigeria;
(c) has been adjudged bankrupt or has made a compromise or arrangement with his creditors;
(d) is adjudged mentally unfit to take up the position by a competent medical authority ;
(e) has been convicted of a crime by a c Court of competent jurisdiction or has been found guilty of misconduct or professional impropriety by the legal practitioners Disciplinary Committee;”

The same Section 10, of Part VIII, 2nd, Schedule, sub-clause [f], goes further to unequivocally state that:
(f) The power of the ECNBA to disqualify a person who wishes to contest for an office shall only be for the grounds specifically contained in this constitution.

The ECNBA as I gathered had no problem with me and my 1st Nominator. The issue was with my Seconder attaching a 2024 Stamp and Seal receipt and omitting to attach the 2024 BPF receipt, as such I am not qualified to contest the 2024 NBA Elections and disqualified.

Does an omission to attach a document to a Seconder’s Form deserve a disqualification of the Aspirant as contemplated by Clause f, of Part VIII of the 2nd Schedule of the NBA Constitution 2015 [as amended in 2021]?

However, it is pertinent to note that the NBA will not issue a member a stamp and seal receipt if you have not paid your Bar Practicing Fees and Branch Dues. You must upload these two documents before you can access the NBA portal to pay for your stamp and seal then print your receipt.

My Seconder is a fit and proper person who was issued with a letter of good standing from the branch, and no doubt very qualified to contest for the office of General Secretary.

Section 6, of Part 1, 2nd Schedule of the NBA Constitution 2015 [as amended in 2021] provides the ECNBA with a discretionary power as follows:-

“The ECNBA may reject nomination papers which do not comply with any of the requirements for nomination and election offices within the Association or which are otherwise not duly completed.”

However, the ECNBA 2024, for reasons best known to it, conveniently ignored and disregarded this provision of Section 6, Part 1, of the 2nd Schedule of the NBA Constitution, but opted to disqualify on a ground that is not provided for in our Constitution.

The NOEAC 2024, also in its wisdom of judgment decided to uphold the decision of the ECNBA,
Can a decision made by the ECNBA ultra vires it powers, be lawfully upheld on appeal?

There are Candidates openly campaigning at the moment, when we all know that the ECNBA has not lifted the ban on campaigns, yet the ECNBA appears to be docile and turning a blind eye. It would seem that some candidates are above being regulated by the ECNBA. Is it that some Candidates are more equal than others?

Be that as it may, I would like to express my gratitude to the members of the Cradle Bar for their absolute loyalty, and all those who supported my candidacy and believed in my vision for the future of the NBA. Your unwavering support has been humbling, and I am truly grateful for the trust, support and understanding you have placed in me during this challenging time..

I have worked for the NBA at both Branch and National levels. In moving forward, I will continue to be an active participant in the activities of the NBA community, supporting the Association’s growth and advocating for positive change. I believe in the power of unity and collaboration, and I am confident that together we can achieve great things.

Let us remain focused on our common goal of making the NBA an even better and more inclusive foremost Association.

My late Father always said to me; “every disappointment is a Blessing in disguise. The Almighty GOD knows best, and is always in control”. Ameen.

Mohammed I. TSAV Esq.,
Chairman-Emeritus,
NBA Bwari Branch.

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These are not the best of times for foremost Bar Leader and Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo SAN as former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Paul Usoro SAN has asked him to count him out of tomorrow’s scheduled colloquium by “Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Abuja.”

In a searing letter obtained by CITY LAWYER and dated 16th May, 2024, Usoro who is the Chairman of the BOSAN Leadership Committee which is saddled with organising its event, stated that he was not privy to the planning of the event, adding that it would lead to a factionalized BOSAN.

Former NBA President, Mr. Augustine Alegeh SAN had also challenged Awomolo’s recent committee appointments as Body of Benchers Chairman, listing several alleged infractions of the Body of Benchers Regulations 2024.

Awomolo had telephoned CITY LAWYER to express displeasure over the report on Alegeh’s letter, warning that it breached the Cybercrime Act and that the email was “private” communication to benchers.

Awomolo had telephoned CITY LAWYER to express displeasure over the report on Alegeh’s letter, warning that it breached the Cybercrime Act and that the email was “private” communication to benchers.

In an extensive letter dated 6th May, 2024, BOSAN Leader, Chief Alfred Kasunmu SAN had asked all invitees to the colloquium, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, to shun the event, describing it as “illegal, in breach of the constitution of BOSAN and antithetical to the philosophical ideals underpinning the establishment of the Body.”

Heaping more pressure on the foremost Life Bencher, Usoro stated that it would be setting a “terrible precedent” for him, as the Chairman of the Leadership Committee, to now “rubber-stamp” the “divisive Colloquium of a factionalized BOSAN” as Chief Host, “and worse still, a Colloquium that I was not even given the courtesy of knowing anything whatsoever about its planning.”

He stated that “I truly wished I was consulted before the printing of this Invitation Card, with my name as the Chief Host, because I would, most respectfully, have dissuaded the organisers from this patently divisive course – and I say this with very profound respect, Sir.”

He said that he viewed the planned event “with regret and quite some tinge of disappointment,” adding that the colloquium was in breach of the procedures of the BOSAN Leadership Committee as all ideas about conferences and seminars ought to be “channeled to the (Leadership) Committee for implementation under the auspices of the unified and united Body.”

According to the former NBA President, “Even as I write, I, as the Chairman of the Leadership Committee, do not know who has been invited for the event, who the speakers are, what topics or issues they will address – indeed, I know next to nothing about the event. With the greatest respect, Sir, that is not how the Leadership Committee of the Body works.”

Usoro stated that “the organisers of this event have not been fair to me at all or to BOSAN as a Body,” even as he called on Awomolo “as our elder and Father (to) please call them to order and dissuade them from this factionalizing course. We inherited a united BOSAN and a united and non-factionalized BOSAN we must maintain, nurture and build for our successors.”

It is unclear at press time whether Awomolo, who was instrumental to the rebirth of NBA after a 6-year hiatus, will forge ahead with the colloquium.

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NEWS RELEASE

Friends of Sabastine Anyia, Esq. heartily rejoice with the indefatigable Chairman of NBA, BWARI BRANCH, our own Paul Daudu Esq. and the entire members of NBA, BWARI BRANCH on the occasion of their 2024 Law week with the theme: Strengthening the Foundation of Justice in Nigeria. We are grateful to be participating in this very rich law week.

It’s gratifying to know that as the son of our former NBA, President, Joseph B. Daudu, you are living up to our expectations. No wonder they say, “The Apple doesn’t fall far from the tree”. Keep soaring, your Daddy is watching you with keen attention and a sense of satisfaction.

We have never been in doubt of your ability to effectively and efficiently champion the affairs of NBA, BWARI BRANCH. Your achievements within this short period of time and your well packaged law week bear eloquent testimony to your leadership qualities and humane deposition which your branch and many of us who have come close to you have enjoyed.

We also salute efforts of your executive and members of your branch who had contributed to the success of your tenure and this law week in particular. This law week shall be a veritable platform for ushering in a new beginning to all of us. It’s also our prayers that we benefit from the eminent scholars who had spoken to us and who will be speaking to us hereinafter. We are proud to identify and celebrate with you and your branch members on this epoch making event.

We wish each and every one of us attending this law week a rewarding outing.

Friends of Sabastine Anyia

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EYE WITNESS

I attended a Court session in Onitsha by 8:30 am and the court was already sitting to hear ex parte applications. I was impressed with the zeal of both the lawyers and Judges. I now know why lawyers in the jurisdiction make the list of senior advocates each year.

I also observed that the lawyers in court were 89 percent above 50 years. I investigated further and I discovered that the Young lawyers produced in UNIZIK and UNN Faculty of Law end up in Lagos and Abuja. The impact of this is an inter-generational gap in legal practice.

A state of emergency needs to be declared in legal practice in Onitsha. The senior lawyers in the practice area should carry younger ones along by making them salary lawyers or partners rather than appearance fees counsel AFC.

Community meetings should have as an agenda the need to ensure lawyers in Onitsha do the cases in the state as they are competent and only need encouragement. If the firms are not briefed the younger lawyers will go to where the briefs are

The Court rooms leave much to be desired. The state governor must prioritize suitable Court rooms and accommodation for Judges. Rule of law is not necessarily judgement of court but facilities that aid the outcome.

The job of successful law practice is a collective one; we must all wrap our hands round it with the emergency it deserves.

President Aigbokhan 
Benin City, Nigeria
president@foicounsel.com

• Aigbokhan is a Benin-based lawyer

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Joseph Aloba, the father of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has denied that he accused a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr Femi Falana of threatening to kill him.

Some reports making the rounds on the internet had suggested Mr. Aloba accused Falana and the late Mohbad’s wife, Wunmi of threatening to kill him.

However, in a statement signed by Mr Joseph Aloba on Friday, he described such publications as false Mr Aloba said when such reports were brought to his notice, he spoke to Mr. Falana on the phone and clarified that he never made the allegations.

He said, “Following misrepresentations in the public space alleging that I made certain allegation against eminent silk, Femi Falana SAN, I wish to make the following clarifications.

“My attention has been drawn to misleading publications in the social media titled severally as follows: “I fear that Femi Falana and Wunmi want to kill me – Mohbad’s father cries out”: Femi Falana, Wunmi Threatening to kill me – Mohbad’s father opens up”: “My daughter-in-law, Falana threatening to kill me” – Mohbad’s father”.

“The above publications are entirely falsehood from the pit of hell.

“I never alleged at any time that Mr Femi Falana SAN threatened to kill me and I do not believe the eminent lawyer will ever be involved in such threats against me.

“When this allegation was brought to my notice by the lawyer to our family, Wahab Shittu SAN, I spoke to Mr. Femi Falana SAN on phone and clarified that I never made such allegation against him and that this is the work of mischief makers.

“My commitment to unraveling the death of my dear son, late Ilerioluwa Promise Oladimeji Aloba (Mohbad) is total and unequivocal and I will not rest until I secure justice for my late son.

“This public clarification is necessary because I will not want mischief makers to derail this struggle for justice for Mohbad by bringing me and our family into needless collision with Mr. Femi Falana SAN or any other person.”

“I have great respects for the perssona of Mr. Femi Falana SAN,” Mr Aloba added.

On January 11, 2024, SaharaReporters reported that Mr Falana through his law firm, Falana & Falana’s Chambers, had reacted to Mr Aloba regarding the allegation of threat to his life by the lawyer.

Falana’s law firm in a rejoinder issued by Taiwo E. Olawanle, Esq., recounted their journey on Mohbad’s case since his death in September 2023, stressing that Mr. Aloba was only after his late son’s estate and having refused to follow due process, he wa merely engaging in puerile blackmail to accomplish his mission.

The statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to the reckless statements credited to Mr Joseph Aloba on several online platforms, television and radio stations regarding Mr Femi Falana (SAN).

“This rejoinder is necessary to set the records straight on the roles played so far by our law firm in unravelling the circumstances surrounding the death of Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad.

“It is no longer news that Mohbad died in September 2023 under questionable circumstances. Upon the death of this young man, many well-meaning Nigerians and human rights groups contacted our office to assist in unraveling the circumstances surrounding his death and get justice for the family.

“The widow of the late singer, Mrs Wunmi Cynthia Aloba also contacted our office to help in a similar vein.

“At that juncture, Mr. Falana called Mohbad’s father and commiserated with him and assured him of his readiness to ensure that the law takes its cause. Our office immediately petitioned the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command requesting a thorough investigation into the case.

“In addition to the above, our office also wrote to the Chief Coroner of Lagos State requesting a Coroner’s Inquest into the remote and immediate cause of the death of Mohbad.

“Our office sent a delegation of lawyers to Mohbad’s residence at Orchid in Lagos to take the statements of those close to the late singer including his wife, parents and staff.”

The statement further noted: “As events unfolded, we realised that the late Mohbad’s father, Mr Joseph Aloba is not interested in unraveling what led to the death of his son but after his estate.

“Hence, he rushed the burial of Mohbad in an unmarked grave without any autopsy to know the cause of death of the deceased. However, at our request, the body of Mohbad was later exhumed for investigation by the Police.

“Since our aim and goal in the matter is to unravel the circumstances surrounding the death of Mohbad through the instrumentality of the law, we had no choice but to distance ourselves from Mr Joseph Aloba’s opportunism and puerile blackmail.”

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My dear distinguished learned SANs, senior colleagues and colleagues,

I must in a special way thank you all for the support rendered to me during my trying moments these past two weeks.

I must confess that your prayers saw me through this particular hurdle. What could I have done if you did not give me your unalloyed support?

I appreciate each and every one of you and further request that you continue to remember me in your prayers to enable me in particular and us in general surmount the future challenge.

A win for one is a win for all!

Thanks and God bless and keep you all. Together we shall emerge victorious in the final analysis.

Sabastine Anyia Esq.

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Lawyers under the aegis of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) branches in Anambra State will today embark on a one-day boycott of courts to press home their demand for release of their colleague who was kidnapped by gunmen at the weekend.

It is recalled that Mr. Chukwubuikem Azoro, the Secretary of NBA Idemili Branch was whisked away by gunmen at Abagana around 8:30 pm last Saturday.

In a notice obtained by CITY LAWYER, the lawyers stated that the boycott “is to enable lawyers press for the immediate release of our colleague and secretary of Idemili branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, Chukwubuikem J. S. Azoro who was kidnapped at Abagana on Saturday 11th May, 2024.”

The Statement was signed by Mr. I. C. Nsofor, the Chairman of Committee of Chairmen and Secretaries, NBA Branches in Anambra State.

The move follows a similar one by NBA Idemili Branch where Azoro held sway as Secretary until his kidnap on Saturday.

A statement by Chukwubuikem Obianyo, the branch Publicity Secretary revealed that his captors have demanded a ransom for his release, adding that “In response to this distressing situation, the members of the Idemili Branch have unanimously resolved to take a stand against such criminal acts. Therefore, Starting from tomorrow the 16th day of May 2024 through the 17th day of May, 2024, all members of the NBA Idemili Branch shall be boycotting appearances in all courts within and outside our jurisdiction. Additionally, members of Idemili Branch pledge to abstain from representing individuals charged with kidnapping or armed robbery until further notice.

“This decision is not taken lightly, but it reflects our unwavering commitment to justice and the safety of our members and the community at large. We call upon the relevant authorities to expedite efforts to secure the safe release of Mr. Azoro and to take decisive action against the perpetrators of this heinous crime.

“We urge the public to join us in condemning such acts of violence and to stand in solidarity with the victim and his family during this difficult time.”

Meanwhile, a candidate in the forthcoming NBA Elections and member of the branch, Mr. Ernest Uwanaka has called for “for fast and unconditional release” of Azoro.

Uwanaka, who has been cleared by the Electoral Commitee of the NBA (ECNBA) to run for the position of NBA Welfare Secretary, condemned Azoro’s kidnap, while calling on Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo as well as the State Police Commissioner to ensure the lawyer’s safe return.

According to the senior lawyer, who is also the Secretary of NBA Idemili Branch Human Rights Committee, “While praying to God for fast and unconditional release of the Branch Secretary, Uwanaka urges the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo and the new Commissioner of Police in the State, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam to assist the NBA, Idemili Branch to secure the release of its member, and beef up security in the State to protect the general public especially legal practitioners and judicial officers whose lives have become endangered due to the nature of their jobs.”

IMPORTANT NOTICE!

ATTN: ALL LAWYERS IN ANAMBRA STATE

THRO:

BRANCH CHAIRMEN

RE: BOYCOTT OF COURTS BY LAWYERS ON THURSDAY 16TH MAY, 2024.

This is to inform all colleagues in the State that there shall be a boycott of courts in Anambra State on Thursday 16th May, 2024.

This is to enable lawyers press for the immediate release of our colleague and secretary of Idemili branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, Chukwubuikem J. S. Azoro who was kidnapped at Abagana on Saturday 11th May, 2024.

Also take notice that there shall be a press conference at Idemili Bar Centre, Ogidi on Thursday 16th May, 2024 by 9.00am. Lawyers are mandated to attend the press conference.

Dress code shall be FORMAL

Kindly ensure strict compliance of this directive.

Signed:
FOR NBA BRANCHES, ANAMBRA STATE

I. C. NSOFOR ESQ
Chairman, Committee of Chairmen and Secretaries, NBA Branches, Anambra State.

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Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has bemoaned the state of Nigeria’s judiciary, saying it is witnessing an undeniable decline.

Obi noted that although there still exists few good judges and justices in the country, the situation is worrisome generally speaking and is a threat to the future of the nation.

Delivering a keynote speech on Tuesday titled “The Role of the Judiciary in Shaping Nigeria’s Future” at the fifth memorial of Justice Anthony Nnaemeka Aniagolu, at the Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, Obi said there is a lot to learn from the integrity of the late Justice of the Supreme Court and his class of justices.

“It was truly an honor to pay tribute to one of Nigeria’s most esteemed jurists, the late Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Anthony Nnaemeka Aniagolu. His illustrious career, particularly as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria from 1978 to 1987, brought immense honor to our judiciary through his unwavering integrity and steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice in our nation,” said Obi.

“As we commemorate the legacy of Justice Aniagolu and other revered Nigerian judges, we must draw inspiration from their exemplary service. We must strive to emulate their dedication to integrity, fairness, respect for the rule of law, transparency, humility, and the dispensation of justice.

“While the judiciary today still boasts of a few outstanding judges, there is an undeniable decline in our judicial system. This decline poses a significant threat to the future of Nigeria. Justice is increasingly commodified, and delivered in favor of the highest bidder.

“When the rule of law is compromised, the most vulnerable members of society are disproportionately affected, and the fabric of our society begins to fray. The integrity of our institutions, the protection of human rights, and the stability of our nation are all jeopardized.

“The rule of law is the highest intangible and most valuable asset of any society, and we must work tirelessly to protect and preserve it. We must prioritize the pursuit of justice above all else.

“Only then can we ensure that the rule of law remains a beacon of hope and a safeguard against tyranny, oppression, and injustice. The future of our nation depends on it

“In my address to the audience, I emphasized the urgent need to revitalize our judicial system by safeguarding its independence and promoting the values of character, competence, capability, compassion, and integrity among our jurists, as well as within our political leadership. By doing so, we can ensure that justice and fairness prevail as we endeavor to build a better Nigeria for all.”

THE NICHE reports that Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu is a private institution owned and managed by the Catholic Church.

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BY BAYO AKINLADE

AGC Conference fees have never been affordable, especially by young Lawyers. As Branch Chairman, I struggled to see why the Branch as a whole would contribute to the conference fee cost of members who had paid their registration fees. What are those extra costs, you might ask? Well you have travel cost and daily transportation to the venue(s), daily upkeep and off course the party that each Branch must host for its members.

Even though I objected to these events, I was compelled to attend a few AGCs at my Branch’s expense which I wasn’t happy about.

The fact is that the AGC fees cannot be made to be too affordable because NBA is so big; there is no way to cater or accommodate its more than 500 thousand members. There will be chaos if the NBA AGC fees were minimal, not even considering the other costs involved.

I recall that during my time as chairman of NBA Ikorodu Branch, I was given a bill of nearly 1 million naira that the Branch spent to go to Abuja with less than 25 of its members for the NBA AGC that year. I nearly had a psychotic breakdown because I knew that the money could have been used to better the lot of more than 200 of my members instead of being used for just about 25 members.

Nevertheless, we must understand that the combined funds spent by NBA national, NBA Branches and individual members of the Bar to host and attend NBA AGCs is money down the drain.

Some may say that the AGC presents to them a social environment to travel and have a holiday and to meet old colleagues. But these are all selfish reasons that add very little value to the real purpose of having an AGC in the first place.

An AGC’s value is in its intellectual and legal reform outcomes. There is no need for justice reform summits or the likes if the AGCs were properly utilized. Besides, every Branch has its own Law Week. So let me propose the following – and these are not new ideas:

1. Focus on State Law Weeks as opposed to Branch Law Weeks

2. AGCs can be held once every 2 or 4 years while AGMs can be help yearly and virtually

3. We can try out Sub-regional Conferences once every other year that the AGC is not holding

4. Breakdown the Registration fees and Charge it per day or per session attended instead of one bulk registration fee

There are many ideas out there but we need to apply ourselves to forward thinking. Not everyone needs to attend these conferences, it is at most, a jamboree anyway because we spend too much time on protocols, receiving special political guests and mentioning the names of all the prominent people in the room while cutting down the time for speakers to deliver their well-researched papers; no time for real debates and exchange of ideas but lots of time for parties and campaigns for NBA positions.

If you are struggling to be part of the 2024 NBA AGC holding in Lagos State, don’t waste your time and your money! You don’t need to be there if you can’t afford to be there!

• Bayo Akinlade is a former Chairman of NBA Ikorodu Branch (2018-2020)

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NEWS RELEASE

LEDAP SUES ATTORNEY GENERAL AND TRADE MINISTER OVER UK-NIGERIA LAWYERS EXCHANGE AGREEMENT

The Legal Defence & Assistance Project (LEDAP) has filed a suit at the Federal High Court Abuja against the Hon Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Trade seeking detailed information on the recent bilateral agreement between Nigeria and the United Kingdom that would allow UK lawyers to practice law in Nigeria.

The suit came up for its first hearing today, May 13th, 2024, before Hon. Justice J. K Omotosho. LEDAP was represented by Adama Adamu Wakili. The defendants, the Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Trade, were absent along with their counsel.

LEDAP’s counsel informed the court that the defendants had been served with the necessary documents and that LEDAP is prepared to proceed. The court adjourned the case to June 3rd, 2024 for hearing of the suit.

In an originating motion filed at the Court with suit no: FHC/ABJ/CS/430/2024, LEDAP seeks orders to compel the Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Trade to comply with its request for information on the legal practice agreement, in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act 2011.

The reliefs sought in the suit are:
1. A DECLARATION that the Respondents’ denial of information requested by the applicants in its letters of 14th February 2024 to the Respondents, requesting for copies of the Enhanced Trade Investment Partnership (ETIP) Agreement on legal services between the Government of Nigeria and The United Kingdom and the details of consultations undertaken with relevant stakeholders in respect to the negotiation for the ETIP Agreement including with the Nigerian Bar Association, General Council of the Bar or any other body relevant to the protection of the legal trade in Nigeria is an infraction of Section 1(1) of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011 and of Applicants’ right to such information under the said section.

2. AN ORDER of court compelling the Respondent to disclose to the Applicant within 14 days of the order the detailed information as requested by the Applicant in its letters of 14th February 2024, namely; Copies of the Enhanced Trade Investment Partnership (ETIP) Agreement on legal services between the Government of Nigeria and The United Kingdom and details of consultations undertaken with relevant stakeholders in respect of the negotiation for the ETIP Agreement including with the Nigerian Bar Association, General Council of the Bar or any other body relevant to the protection of the legal trade in Nigeria.

The grounds for the application are as follows:
1. The Applicant has the right to the information it requested from the Respondents in its letter to the Respondents dated 14″ February 2024, (attached to the affidavit in support of the motion as Exhibits B and C), by virtue of section 1(1) of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.

2. That the Respondents failed to furnish the Applicant with the information requested without stating any valid grounds for withholding the said information.

3. The National Assembly, in 2011, enacted the Freedom of Information Act which makes general provisions on requests for information by “anyone” in need of such information.

4. The information sought by the Applicant from the Respondents does not fall within any of the exemptions provided under Sections 11,12,14,15 16 and 17 of the Act, or under any other part of the Act.

5. This Honourable Court has the jurisdiction to order the Respondents to disclose the requested information under section 25 of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.

Nora Asobara
Program Director, LEDAP

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RIVERS STATE: COURT PRONOUNCEMENT NOT NECESSARY IN VACATION OF SEAT OF A DEFECTING LAWMAKER IN NIGERIA

BY SYLVESTER UDEMEZUE (UDEMS)

1️⃣ SECTION 109(1)(G), CFRN, 1999 provides: “A member of a House of Assembly shall vacate his seat in the House if –
being a person whose election to the House of Assembly was sponsored by a political party, he becomes a member of any other political party before the expiration of the period for which that House was elected: Provided that his membership of the latter political party is not as a result of a division in the political party of which he was previously a member or of a merger of two or more political parties or factions by one of which he was previously sponsored;”

2️⃣ SECTION 109(2), CFRN, 1999: “The Speaker of the House of Assembly shall give effect to subsection (1) of this section, so however that the Speaker or a member shall first present evidence satisfactory to the House that any of the provisions of that subsection has become applicable in respect of the member”

3️⃣. On 12 December 2023, “COURT CONFIRMS EDISON EHIE AS AUTHENTIC RIVERS ASSEMBLY SPEAKER” (published in
guardian.ng)

4️⃣. On 14 December 2023, “FUBARA-BACKED RIVERS SPEAKER DECLARES SEATS OF 27 DEFECTED LAWMAKERS VACANT”* (published in premiumtimesng)

5️⃣(a). I can’t see anywhere in the Constitution where Court has any role to play before the seats of defecting lawmakers could or would become vacant;

(b). Meanwhile, the following appear to be not in doubt:

(i). 27 lawmakers had defected to another party. On 11 December 2023, *”27 RIVERS PDP LAWMAKERS DEFECT TO APC”* (See: punchng.com)

(ii). There was no division reported at the national level of their own political party (PDP) as of the time and date they defected to the APC;

(iii). By virtue of an order of a competent court of law, Edison Ehie was the Speaker as of 13 December 2023 when the seats were declared vacant bt the Speaker, Hon Edison Ehie.

(iv). As the speaker, Hon Edison Ehie then declared vacant, the seats of the 27 members who had defected to the APC.

(v). HON EDISON EHIE as the speaker reportedly later wrote the INEC to conduct elections to fill the vacant seats. *”RIVERS SPEAKER WRITES INEC, SEEKS CONDUCT OF FRESH ELECTIONS IN 25 CONSTITUENCIES”*
(See: leadership.ng)

(vi). Whether INEC listened to conduct bye-elections or not, and pending when INEN would conduct the bye-elections, the declaration by the speaker, based on the defection, appears to have rendered the seats vacant. Further, the Speaker had done what he should do by notifying INEC and inviting INEC to conduct fresh elections to fill the existing vacancies. The ball is now in INEC’s court. Meanwhile, the businesses of the House of Assembly has to proceed with the remaining members of the House, pending when INEC conducts the bye-elections. See Section 102 of the Constitution.

(vii). Until today that declaration by speaker Ehie has not been reversed by the speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly; can it even be reversed by the House? No provisions in the Constitution for reversal of the declaration.

6️⃣. I saw yesterday (09/05/2024) where one of our great seniors was arguing strongly that mere defection doesn’t render the lawmakers’ seats vacant. And I asked myself, even if section 109(1)(g) was not self-executory as the learned senior argued, had the Speaker not given effect to the provisions of Section 109(1)(g) as required by the Constitution, thereby executing it whereupon the seats of the 27 members had then become vacant in the eyes of the law? How else does our oga want the provisions of *Section 109(1) (g)* to be given effect? And, does INEC’s delay in conducting Bye-elections to fill the vacancies created by the defection, affect the fact that in law, their seats are already vacant?

7️⃣. I saw also another opinion, that a court must declare the seats vacant before the seats can become vacant. With due respect, I don’t think that’s what the law says. The Constitution does not say anywhere, that a court of law must make a declaration before the seats of defecting members of a legislative house would become vacant upon such a defection. The Constitution has given power to the Speaker of the House of Assembly to declare the affected seats vacant. And irrespective of how Hon Edison Ehie was elected the speaker, the court had upheld the said election (albeit temporarily) and given the said speaker and the remaining Assembly members the go-ahead to conduct the businesses of the House. It was after the green light from the court that the Edison Ehie-led House went ahead to declare VACANT the seats the defecting members. A court order remains binding and effective unless and until set aside. See *THE MILITARY GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE & ORS. V. CHIEF EMEKA ODUMEGWU OJUKWU & ANOR (1986) JELR 47904 (SC);* (SC. 241/850) [1986] NGSC 13 (14 February 1986).

See also Ogundare, JSC, in *Rossek v. A.C.B. Ltd.* (1993) 8 NWLR (Pt. 312) 382 at pages 434-435 E-C; and Eso, JSC in *Oba Aladegbami v. Oba Fasanmade* (1988) 3NWLR (pt.81) 131; (1988-LCER-4450-SC)

See also *Adebayo v. Johnson* (1969) 1 All NLR 176; *Aladegbemi v. Fasanmade* (1988) 3 NWLR (Pt.81) 129; *Komolafe v. Omole* (1993) 1 NWLR (Pt.268) 213; *Rossek v. African Continental Bank Ltd.* (supra).” See also the dictum of MUHAMMAD, J.S.C ( Pp. 23-27, paras. E-C ) in *OSHIOMHOLE & ANOR V. FGN & ANOR* (2004) LPELR-5188(CA).

If there was a court order validating the actions of the Edison Ehie-led House at the time the House declared vacant the seats, can one validly argue that the seats have not been declared vacant?

8️⃣. By the way, let one advert one’s mind to the rules of corporate governance, especially relating to Majority Rule and Minority Protection?What happens when those acting illegally or committing a breach of the law are in the majority, and can’t reasonably be expected to take action against themselves for purposes of giving effect to the legal consequences of their illegal actions, which situation has foisted upon the corporation a state of hopelessness or helplessness? Isn’t the minority entitled to act to save the situation? By the way when 27 members out of a 32-member house defect leaving only five, aren’t the five entitled to act to uphold and protect the law, since it’s reasonably unthinkable that the defecting 27 members would ever give effect to the provisions of Section 109(1)(g), Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999?

9️⃣. There is no doubt that the 27 lawmakers are the ones who had voluntarily given their opponents the weapon with which to fight the 27 lawmakers. Thus, I agree with respected Femi Falana, SAN, that the defection of the 27 lawmakers was ill-advised, self-defeating and counterproductive. *”27 RIVERS LAWMAKERS WHO DEFECTED FROM PDP TO APC DIDN’T RECEIVE SOUND LEGAL ADVICE AND HAVE LOST THEIR SEATS – FEMI FALANA”*
(See: lindaikejisblog.com).

9️⃣. RESOLUTION OF THE MATTER. I humbly think that if the affected 27 or 25 lawmakers believe their seats have not become vacant, they should explore the legal opportunity provided by *Section 272(3), Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999,* which provides as follows: _”Subject to the provisions of section 251 and other provisions of this Constitution, the Federal High Court shall have jurisdiction to hear and determine the question as to whether the term of office of a member of the House of Assembly of a State, a Governor or Deputy Governor has ceased or *become vacant”. The court would then examine all issues and award relevant redress or orders as it may deem necessary, fit and just in the circumstances. It is respectfully submitted that the State High Court also has jurisdiction in the matter.

?. Finally, I admit the legal discussions are intricate, complex as many issues need to be examined on both sides. Meanwhile, I urge all lawyers as custodians of the rule of law, to approach the matter with an open and objective mind, while facing reality as it’s. On my part, as much as I need a further education on the legal issues, I think I should write further to give a detailed legal opinion on the matter, citing as much more legal authorities as I am able to have access to, in the best interest of the public and our constitutional democracy.

• Udemezue (Udems) is the Proctor at Reality Ministry of Justice (RMJ), a Public Interest Legal Advocacy Group), and can be reached at therealistministry@gmail.com.

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A leading aspirant for the coveted position of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Port Harcourt Chairman, Mrs. Cordelia Uwuma Eke has had her chances brightened following her clearance today by the John K. Synger-led Electoral Committee.

In a notice obtained by CITY LAWYER, the electoral umpire stated that it has scrutinized Eke’s nomination papers and found them faultless.

Eke topped the list of candidates cleared by the Electoral Committee for the position of Chairman, even as the committee also gave the green light to Mr. Geoffrey Joseph and Felicia Nwoke.

Others who also made the list include Chijioke Amadi and Emmanuel John for the position Vice Chairman, Obum Nwoye, Secretary; Modupe Babalola, Financial Secretary and Esu Cleopas for Assistant Secretary.

A pioneer female Secretary of the branch, Eke is on course to also emerge as the pioneer female Chairman of the mega branch. 

Eke is a respected Bar Leader and former former Secretary of the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA). Currently a Director in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice where she holds sway as a no-nonsense criminal trial prosecutor, Eke has been actively engaged in mediation, civil and criminal litigation at the high court, Appeal court, and the Supreme court for over 20 years.

She is also the President of the influential 1995 Law School Class. A Rivers State Representative in the Eastern Zone Management Committee of the NBA Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL), Eke holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Degree from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (now Rivers State University), Port Harcourt, and a Master of Laws (LLM) in Public International Law, from the University of Kent, Canterbury in the United Kingdom. 

More recently, she was named among Africa’s Top 100 Female Lawyers during the unveiling of this year’s “Courtroom Mail 100 Women 2024.”

A citation by the organisers noted that Eke is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators ICMC Nigeria, a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants, and an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, Nigeria. She specializes in Criminal Law and Alternative Dispute Resolution.

Eke has held several leadership positions in the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), African Bar Association (AFBA), African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Nigeria, International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria and the Law Officers Association of Nigeria (LOAN) at state and national levels, including being Council Member of the NBA Human Rights Institute and the National Executive Committee. She is presently a member of the NBA National Remuneration Committee.

The popular Bar Leader is acclaimed as an ace prosecutor and has also held down several roles at the Ministry of justice, including, being the Team Lead, Committee on Drafting of Prosecution Manual and Code of Conduct for Prosecutors and Team Lead, Attorney-General’s Special Committee which treated abandoned case files of over 350 awaiting trial inmates in the Federal prisons in Rivers State.

Her expertise in criminal law practice made her a much-sought-after Speaker, Trainer, and Resource person on legal and other subjects. She has presented papers to members of the Bench and the Bar among others at various seminars, workshops and conferences including the NBA Annual General Conferences and NBA Continuing Legal Education (NBA-CLE) programmes among others.

Reputed as a cerebral lawyer, Eke is the author of the fast-selling book, CRIMINAL JUSTICE IN NIGERIA: A PRACTICAL GUIDE. She has also published articles and edited legal works and newsletters.

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GOOD NEWS: LAWYER IN BUSINESS INSTITUTE [RC:135532] announces ongoing programmes for the Benefit/Training of Lawyers/members, with Aare Isiaka Olagunju SAN among top subscribers

The programmes include:

1] LIBI Land-Banking Scheme: [100 of us contribute 100k each to buy F.C.D.A Land with Approved Building Plan in a Built-up Estate; Build to DPC Level, sell later and share profit]. Click here to join https://chat.whatsapp.com/JSAM91XdOcsBVTDKQ5HfLX

2] NHIS Free Comprehensive Health Insurance for two lucky Lawyers/members this June 2024. Click here to join https://chat.whatsapp.com/IW0tWKBl4iI7gjRgcd8jJ6

3] Monthly Asusu [rotational contribution] through the LIBI Cooperative to help Lawyers/members raise interest-free Loan for Investments. Some guides on areas and how to invest also available. Click here to join: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Dq2fqrx6jxmKMe5FXligRU

4] Shalom Villa Estate Ltd Partnership: to help Lawyers/members become Landlords in Abuja and pay Small small for up to one year/Six months. Land is F.C.D.A Allocation with FCDA Approved Building Plan. Subscribe, build and move in.

5] TekPath Ltd: To train Lawyers/Members on the Tech Skills needed to render there Legal and other services from home/office and earn in Dollars. [On platformremote. co, nodesk. co, upwork .com, flexjobs. com. pangian. com, remotely. jobs, remotive. com etc]
Click here to join https://chat.whatsapp.com/Lht5HN5TfXR2CDoXmUnxtW

6] Digital Technology Business School London, United Kingdom: To train and Certify Lawyers/members on IT, Project Management, Business Analysis, Cyber Security and Data Science.

7] Queens Breed Services: To train Lawyers/members on the opportunities available on the Nigerian Customs Auction Portal and how to navigate same. Members will be able to buy cars at amazingly cheap rates during Customs Auction and resell at greater value.

8] NACO Logistics Ltd: To train Lawyers/Members on the Logistics/Hospitality Industry and opportunities therein.

9] Remita Invest Crypto Inc: To train Lawyers/Members on the opportunities in the Crypto Market and equip them with the necessary tools to needed.

10] Marx Capital Cooperative Ltd: to train Lawyers on the opportunities in Loaning and Micro Credit bussiness.

11] Euro Titans Ltd: To train Lawyers/Members on the opportunities available in the Procurement and Government Contract industry and arm them with the requisite skills to take advantage.

Good day Learned Colleagues, especially those who just joined our platform. May all our great dreams come true.

It is with the greatest pleasure that we welcome you to the Lawyers In Business Institute.

I am Emeka Silas Agbara Esq, a Past Provost of NBA Abuja, a Director in SOLAR FOR ALL LTD, the Current Treasurer of Otu Oka-iwu [Igbo Lawyers] Abuja and a Senior Associate in the Law Firm of M. I. Dikko SAN & Associates.

I am, by God’s grace, the Convener of Lawyers in Business Institute.

BACKGROUND
We started the Lawyers in Business Int’l (Founders of the LIBI) in 2018 as a platform to teach Lawyers and learn from their experiences in the area of Business and Business ownership.

We had our first Workshop, with Professor Earnest Ojukwu SAN as the Keynote Speaker.

We set out to clear the wrong notion that Lawyers are not allowed to do business, and explained step-by-step approaches a Lawyer can take to set up and run a business successfully, without any offence to the RPC. We will share records of that Workshop here.

Before COVID, we had our second Workshop in which we invited individuals and companies that are doing well in business to guide Lawyers on how to start.

These are businesses a Lawyer can learn a few skills on, register a Limited Liability Company as the SPV to drive it, streamline operations in a few months, and be able to earn money with the phone/laptop and from the comfort of the Home, Office and/or Court.

When we practice without a hungry stomach, we practice with dignity and honor. We won’t charge N20k to draft Deed of Assignment and Power of Attorney for a Property of Six Million (a colleague did and put his Seal boldly).

We won’t charge 50k to register a Limited Liability Company, just so we are able to feed (e no easy). These and more, are the reasons we are here. We welcome ideas, contributions and insights from everyone on how best to drive this important agenda.

You are most welcome.

The Lawyers in Business Int’l (Founders of the LIBI) started in 2018 as a platform to teach Lawyers/Members and learn from their experiences in the area of business and business ownership. With your support and cooperation, we will see how far we can go before the year ends.

Kindly click the links above to join us.

Send a message to the Admin for details of any of the above opportunities, as we restrict messages to avoid spam and scam messages.

LIBI … Multiple income for greater Dignity.

Silas Agbara Esq
Senior Associate, M. I. Dikko SAN & Co/ Director, Solar For All Ltd/Treasurer, Otu Oka-iwu Abuja
Convener, LIBI

Call/Chat:08060266163. Visit suit A8, Kenuj O2 Mall, Behind Games Village Abuja

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• LISTS FOUR BREACHES OF BENCHERS’ REGULATIONS

• QUERIES HIS REMOVAL AS APPOINTMENT C’TE CHAIR

• VOWS TO SERVE OUT HIS TENURE

• ‘WE WILL ADDRESS ALL ISSUES’ – BODY OF BENCHERS

Life Bencher and former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Augustine Alegeh SAN has disagreed sharply with the recent reconstitution of the Body of Benchers committees by its Chairman, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo SAN.

CITY LAWYER recalls that Awomolo had recently reconstituted the membership of the body’s standing committees while creating two ad hoc committees.

But in a sharp rebuke by Alegeh, who is also a member of the NBA Board of Trustees, the Bar Leader stated that the elite body must not engage in dumping decisions taken on the floor of the house merely due to a change in leadership, warning that it would “portend grave danger if each year the decisions made in the last year are overturned when a new Chairman assumes the mantle of leadership.”

When CITY LAWYER contacted the Body of Benchers, it however assured that all issues raised by the Bar Leader would be addressed by its Chairman.

Continuing, Alegeh wrote: “I believe that the Regulations passed and all decisions made under the leadership of Honourable Justice Mary Ukaego Peter-Odili, JSC [Rtd] must be respected as they are decisions of the Body of Benchers.”

He also questioned his removal as Chairman of the Benchers Appointment Committee, noting that he is yet to serve out his three-year tenure as the duly appointed chairman of the committee.

CITY LAWYER recalls that leading senior lawyer, Prof. Yusuf Ali SAN was announced as the new chairman of the committee, with Justice Fati L. Abubakar as Vice Chairman.

In a letter dated 28th March, 2024 and titled “APPOINTMENT TO SERVE AS CHAIRMAN OF THE BODY OF BENCHERS APPOINTMENT COMMITTEE,” Alegeh was named as the arrowhead of the all-important committee. Signed by Mr. Daniel Tela, the Secretary of the Body of Benchers, the letter stated that the appointment “shall be for a period of three (3) years.” The former NBA helmsman accepted the appointment the same day and vowed to “discharge the functions of the office with great responsibility and commitment to the ideals of the Body of Bencher.”

However, less than six weeks in the saddle, the Life Bencher was reportedly yanked off the seat through the reconstitution exercise by Awomolo. The exercise was communicated to benchers through an email by Tela.

But in a fiery protest letter dated 2nd May, 2024 Alegeh warned on the dangers of side-stepping the Rule of Law, saying: “All Legal Practitioners are indeed, expected to be avid proponents and defenders of the Rule of Law.” He added that “I have always seen the Body of Benchers as the apex body in the promotion and defence of the Rule of Law.”

The senior lawyer noted that “the Body of Benchers passed unanimously the new Regulations, made pursuant to the Legal Practitioners Act, 2014 [as Amended],” adding that “The Regulations are sacrosanct and binding on all members of this distinguished body.”

Alegeh stated that the Regulations “show clearly that the power to create Committees rests with the entire Body,” emphasizing that “I am not aware of any committee of this distinguished Body that has been created in a different manner.”

On the renaming of the committees, he stated that this also violated the Regulations, saying: “The Regulations clearly set out and define the Standing Committees of the Body of Benchers and the names so ascribed to the Committees cannot be changed as if the Regulations have no effect whatsoever. The renaming of the Standing Committees clearly violates the Regulations.”

According to the Bar Leader, tampering with the tenure of office of committee members was also a violation of the Regulations. His words: “In your email, under reference, you stated that the membership of the Committees was now to be for a period of two [2] years only, whereas Regulation 11[6] states clearly that membership of Committees is for a period of three [3] years. I wonder how the tenure of members can be shortened to two [2] years, contrary to the clear stipulations of the Regulations.”

Turning to the reconstitution of the Benchers Appointment Committee, Alegeh expressed concern that he was removed from the saddle before the expiration of his tenure. Making reference to his acceptance of the appointment from the Benchers” leadership, he wrote: ” I am surprised to see that whereas my tenure has not expired, my respected big brother and Life Bencher, Mallam Yusuf Ali, SAN, whom I hold in very high esteem, and who has a rich history of respect for the Rule of Law, was published in your email as the “Chairman” of the same Committee.”

He warned “that I accepted to serve the full term of three [3] years and I have not resigned my appointment as the Chairman of the Body of Benchers Appointment Committee. I believe there must be an error which I respectfully request should be corrected immediately.”

He observed that the error “is made more apparent” by the statement that “members already serving in Committees and are being retained, shall serve the remaining term of office as indicated in their letter of appointment earlier issued”

The former NBA President stated that he was named a mere member of the Benchers Appointment Committee in the reconstitution exercise whereas his letter of appointment “states clearly that I was appointed as the Chairman of the Committee for a term of three [3] years.”

In the clearest indication that he was ready to do battle over the matter, he vowed that “I therefore would continue to act as Chairman of the Committee in the terms stated in my Letter of Appointment.”

Alegeh stated that the “clear provisions” of the Benchers’ Regulations “may not have been brought to the attention of the Chairman before you sent the email under reference,” and urged Tela “as a matter of urgency, to raw the attention of the Chairman to the provisions of the extant Body of Benchers Regulations, 2024 and ensure compliance and respect for the said Regulations.”

Tela however told CITY LAWYER that the Body of Benchers is aware of the  letter and would tackle all the issues raised. His words: “We are in receipt of the letter and the attention of the Chairman has been drawn to it. The issues raised will be addressed by the Chairman.”

A former Chairman of the influential Surulere Lawyers Forum (SLF), Mrs. Chioma Ferguson has commended Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN for constituting the NBA Surulere Branch Caretaker Committee.

Speaking to CITY LAWYER on the setting up of a Caretaker Committee to operationalize the new branch, the fiery Bar Leader described the development as “epoch-making,” saying that “Posterity will be kind to the NBA President for taking the bold step to fully bring this long-awaited branch to life.”

Ferguson, who is also a founding member of the forum, stated that “The new branch will take Bar activities in the Yaba/Surulere axis to an entirely new level, thereby boosting professionalism and the welfare of lawyers.”

Reputed to have taken SLF to enviable heights during her eventful tenure, the seasoned Bar Leader also commended members of the Caretaker Committee “for accepting to serve the Bar at this crucial time. I am especially excited that they are people of character and integrity. I urge all our members to accord them maximum support in order to enable them seamlessly discharge their mandate.”

CITY LAWYER recalls that Maikyau had recently constituted the Caretaker Committee, with respected senior lawyer, Mr. Adeleke Agboola SAN as Chairman.

He wrote: “Whereas the National Executive Council in its meeting of 29 February 2024 held in Jos,
Plateau State, reiterated its approval for the creation of Surulere Branch of the Association, and authorised the National Executive Committee to constitute a Caretaker Committee for the Branch for the purpose of conducting the election of Branch officers.

“After careful consideration, the Caretaker Committee of Surulere Branch, is hereby constituted as follows:

1) Adeleke Agboola, SAN – CHAIRMAN
2) Ita Azim – SECRETARY
3) Roseline Akinbo
4) Chuka Adimonye
5) Peter Ozobialu

“The Committee is to administer the affairs of the Branch for 3 (three) months, beginning from the date of this Notice. Within this period, the Committee shall, as a matter of priority, plan for and hold the Annual General Meeting of the Branch, at which the election of the executive committee of the new Branch shall be conducted. For avoidance of doubt, the Caretaker Committee shall conduct election and hand-over to the elected Branch Executive Committee on or before 7 August 2024.

“I thank members of the Committee for graciously accepting this responsibility and urge them
to discharge their duties in accordance with law, without fear or favour. Members of the Branch are enjoined to give the Caretaker Committee maximum support and cooperation to ensure hitch-free launch of the Branch.”

Meanwhile, the branch will hold its Monthly General Meeting on Wednesday, 15th May, 2024 at Forester Hall, Babatunde Street, Surulere, Lagos. Time is 3 pm. Highlight of the meeting is the handing over of the reins of power by the SLF Executive Committee to the Caretaker Committee.

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We extend our warmest congratulations to our esteemed leader, AFAM OSIGWE, SAN, on your successful clearance by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) to contest for the esteemed position of President of the Nigerian Bar Association.

Your clearance represents a significant milestone in your journey toward leadership within the legal community. We commend the ECNBA for its diligent review process and adherence to the principles of fairness and transparency.

As friends and supporters, we are immensely proud of your accomplishments and unwavering dedication to the legal profession. Your impeccable track record, integrity, and commitment to upholding the rule of law have earned you the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers alike.

While we eagerly anticipate the upcoming elections, we want to reiterate our steadfast support for you. Your vision for the Nigerian Bar Association resonates deeply with our values of justice, equality, and excellence. We have full confidence in your ability to lead with integrity and make meaningful contributions towards the advancement of the legal profession.

As we await further guidance from the ECNBA regarding campaign regulations, please know that we stand ready to assist and support you in any way possible. Together, we will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.

– FRIENDS OF AFAM OSIGWE, SAN

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A Partner and Head of Tax at ALN: Aluko & Oyebode, Mr. Chukwuka Ikwuazom SAN has announced the commencement of the popular BOA Lawyers’ League Tournament.

In a statement signed by the senior lawyer, Ikwuazom SAN, who is the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC) and a former Chairman of the NBA Lagos Branch, noted that 15 law firms have signed up for the 19th edition of the tournament.

Below is the full text of the statement.

We’re thrilled to announce the commencement of the 19th Edition of the BOA Lawyers’ League Tournament, set to kick off on May 5, 2024. After the hiatus forced upon us by the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020, it brings me immense joy to announce the revival of this cherished tradition fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship within Lagos’ legal community.

This tournament holds a profound significance for us. It’s organized in honour of the late Mr. Bankole Olumide Aluko, SAN, co-founding partner of ALN Aluko & Oyebode, who passed away in February 2002. His enduring legacy continues to inspire us, and this tournament stands as a fitting tribute to his memory.

With 15 formidable teams in the lineup representing esteemed law firms such as Bloomfield, Grey Chapel, Minerva LP, Templars, G. Elias, ALP Ng Co, Stren & Blan, Denton Acas-Law, DOA, UUBO, Punuka, Banwo & Ighodalo, OALP, Pinheiro, Wole Olanipekun & Co, and, of course, Aluko & Oyebode, this year’s tournament promises nothing short of extraordinary excitement.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all participating law firms for their unwavering support and dedication to this event. Your partnership is pivotal in ensuring the resounding success of the BOA Lawyers’ League Tournament, year after year.

To all members of the legal community in Lagos, I extend this invitation to join us as we come together to cheer on our colleagues, revel in the competitive spirit of the games, and seize the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals.

Let’s unite in celebration of our shared passion for both the legal profession and the beautiful game of football.

Chukwuka Ikwuazom, SAN
Partner and Head of Tax, ALN: Aluko & Oyebode

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Friends of one of the leading candidates for the position of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) First Vice President, Dr. Promise Iwezor have congratulated him on his clearance by the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA).

According to the message seen by CITY LAWYER, they stated that the clearance “remains a huge testament to your strong commitment to the rule of law and unflinching ethos.”

The full text of the message reads:

HEARTY CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations on your being cleared to run for office of the First Vice President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Dr. Promise Iwezor.

This remains a huge testament to your strong commitment to the rule of law and unflinching ethos.

We wish you the very best at the polls Dr!

Courtesy:
Friends of Promise Iwezor

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About six weeks after it was supposed to have made a decision on its choice of Technical Support Consultant (TSC) for the forthcoming Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Elections, the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA) is still keeping its choice under wraps.

CITY LAWYER recalls that the electoral committee had stated in its “Request for Proposal For Technical Support Consultant to the ECNBA” dated 19th February, 2024 that it would on 15th March, 2024 issue a “final decision” as well as award the contract for the role.

The roles of the TSC include Member Identity & Database (Technical Assistance), ICT Service Provider (“Service Provider”), Stakeholder Support as well as Tests, Audits & Reports.

The electoral committee had stated that “Proposals must be received on or before 5pm, on 29th February 2024 for consideration to be submitted in a sealed envelope addressed to THE SECRETARY, ECNBA, NBA INSTITUTE, NO. 9 ORO-AGO CRESCENT, OFF MUHAMMADU BUHARI WAY, OFF TWON BRASS STREET, GARKI 2, ABUJA. A soft copy of the proposal and attachments shall also be submitted electronically via email to info@ecnba.org.”

It added that “Proposals must remain valid in all material respects for 90 days. 8. The ECNBA will shortlist and publish successful respondents on the ECNBA/NBA website or any other major platform to afford members of the Association the opportunity to make observations or file any complaint against the engagement of any of the Respondents stating substantial and verifiable grounds. The decision of the ECNBA in respect of the choice of the respondent shall be final.”

The committee set out the timelines to deliver its task of appointing the TSC as follows:

 Publish Request for Proposal – 20th February 2024

 Shortlist successful respondents and notify unsuccessful respondents – 3rd March 2024

 Publish shortlisted respondents on ECNBA/NBA websites and major platforms, request for any objections/complaints – 5th March 2024

 Consider objections and complaints against shortlisted respondent(s) – 7th March 2024

 ECNBA’s Due Diligence and final decision/Award Contract – 15th March 2024

The committee had in a notice dated 27th March, 2024 announced its shortlist of three companies for the role, saying: “The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) is pleased to announce the shortlisted entities that have submitted bids as technical support consultants for the upcoming NBA elections.”

The companies include Infohob Technology Limited, Digital Hub Solutions and Services Limited and Morgen Green Limited.

The ECNBA stated that “These entities have demonstrated exceptional qualifications and experience in the field and will proceed to the next stage of the selection process, which will involve interviews and further assessment.”

Digiterhub is reputed as a fast-growing Managed Service Provider (MSP) business “which is poised for global expansion on the back of a robust solution/ product portfolio as well as strategic investments and enhancements in delivery capabilities like Cyber Security, Data Privacy as a Service, Cloud Computing, Mobile & Web Apps, and integrated Training hub platforms.”

Morgen Green Limited is reputed as a company that specializes in providing advanced Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions. Äccording to the company’s profile, “We support businesses and organizations across various sectors by delivering mission-critical ICT systems, integrating tailored business solutions, and enabling end-to-end digitalization of services. Our portfolio includes telecoms, payment gateways, IT security, network services, and edutech solutions.”

Infohob Technology Limited has Mr. Anthony Tersoo Ayabam as its Founder and Chief Executive Officer. He is a member of the National Advisory Council on Technology and Creativity. He is reputed as an experienced leader in the IT and telecoms sector with over 20 years combined technical and C-Suite experience in the development, deployment and analysis of technical solutions, and trends. His technical experience is “grounded in work for range of large international corporations including Schlumberger, Ericsson and the World Bank. He helped these companies arrive at the right solutions, from conceptualization to implementation.”

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Afrobeat musician and son of legendary Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Seun Kuti, has apologised to Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN over a defamatory statement he made against the senior lawyer.

Seun had in a video on social media alleged that Ayorinde intentionally passed information to Process and Industrial Development (P&ID) while representing Nigeria in the arbitration proceedings over a disputed gas contract.

The afrobeat musician had also vowed that he was ready to meet Ayorinde in court over the controversy surrounding the P&ID gas processing contract case.

Following this, the senior lawyer slammed the popular afrobeat musician with a libel and defamation of character lawsuit before an Oyo State High Court sitting at Ibadan.

However, at the hearing of the suit on April 18, 2024, parties informed the court that they had amicably resolved the matter. They urged the court to adopt their terms of settlement dated 15/4/2024 and filed the same date as the judgment of the court.

Consequently, Justice Kamorudeen Olawoyin adopted the terms of settlement as the judgment of the court.

The court said: “In view of the foregoing and in accordance with the expressed desire of the parties in this suit as confirmed by the respective counsel in court, I hereby enter the foregoing terms of settlement as the judgment of the court.”

In the terms of settlement seen by CITY LAWYER, Seun stated that his statements made and published on his Instagram handle @bigbirdkuti on October 31, 2023, against Ayorinde were untrue and stood retracted.

He stated: “It is not true that the claimant (Chief Ayorinde SAN) leaked confidential documents to the adverse side in the P & ID Vs. Nigeria arbitration matter or in any way conducted himself in any unethical or corrupt manner in his work as legal Practitioner for Nigeria in the said case.

“It is not true that the claimant deliberately planned with the opponent to lose in the P & ID Vs. Nigeria Arbitration Matter and sabotaged the interests of Nigeria in the case.

“It is not true that the claimant committed Treachery against Nigeria in the said P & ID Vs. Nigeria Arbitration Matter.

“It is not true that the claimant charged $197 million for a case in which the claimant intentionally sabotaged his country, Nigeria.”

Seun added: “Having now conceded that my allegations are untrue and unfounded and that I have unjustifiably impeached the character and reputation of Chief Ayorinde, SAN, I hereby publicly recant and retract my aforesaid untrue imputations against Chief Ayorinde, which stood to damage the hard earned good name and good will of Chief Ayorinde’s character.”

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The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) has announced a shortlist of four companies to act as as Election Platform Service Provider, for the forthcoming NBA Elections. The announcement was made in the ECNBA Notice No. 6, dated April 25, 2024.

The notice reads: “This is to notify members of the Nigerian Bar Association that following the preliminary assessment of submitted bids by parties for consideration as Election Platform Service Provider, the following Companies/Enterprises have been shortlisted for the next stage of technical and financial review:

i. Zoracom Ltd of Enterprise Hubs, 16a Trinity Avenue VI Lagos. Nigeria NSOC Building, Bafag Crescent, Greenview Estate, Ogunfayo. Lekki -Epe Expressway Lagos.

ii. INITS Limited of 283, Herbert Macaulay, Yaba, Lagos.

iii. Aberdeen Strategies, Systems and Solutions (Aberdeen Commercial Group), of A06 Cabana Suites, Abuja Continental Hotel, Ladi Kwali, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja. Nigeria

iv. AppsInception of Perfectedge Technologies Limited of 1,Omololu Street, Off Abiodun Onitiri Avenue, Abule-Egba, Lagos, Nigeria.”

According to the notice, “Any (NBA) member who has any legally justifiable ground of objection to the consideration of any of the listed companies may forward such comments in not more than a two paged A4 paper summary to info@ecnba.org for consideration.

“Such objections must be received by the ECNBA on or before “29th April 2024”, supported with relevant documents that may establish the grounds raised.”

The notice was signed by the ECNBA Chairman, Mr. Oluseun Abimbola SAN, and Secretary, Huwaila Ibrahim Muhammad.

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FEATURED

Solar For All: M. I Dikko SAN [Past Chairman, NBA Lafia Branch] is our “Star Client of the week”

M. I. Dikko SAN is a mentor to many and a model for every young lawyer who aspires to success.

For this erudite, distinguished and cerebral Young Silk, it is about the 6th bite on the cherry, having been enjoying our Solar Energy Solutions in his Abuja Office, Lafia Office, Abuja Home, Lafia Home and other locations.

To get an efficient Solar system at 10% Discount anywhere in Nigeria with 25 years warranty and “Pay Small Small”, call/chat Solar For All Ltd: 08060266163.

Visit: SolarForAll.ng
(Abuja) Suite A8, Kenuj O2 Mall ,Behind Games Village.
(Lagos) No 113A, Mainland Way, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi.
(Enugu State) Ehalumona Junction, Nsukka.

The Solar For Abuja/Northern Nigeria team are grateful to have been hosted at Lafia by the erudite Silk. Dikko is among the brightest of Nigerian lawyers who took the Silk before 40 years of age. His firm, M. I. Dikko SAN & Associates, provides top-notch legal services across all legal spheres. He stands out as a pillar of inspiration in excellence, consistency and hard work.

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OPTIONS OPEN TO A PARTY OR COUNSEL WHERE THERE IS GENUINE CAUSE FOR COMPLAINT AGAINST A JUDGE OR MAGISTRATE IN JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS

Where a lawyer (or litigant) has good grounds for complaints against a judicial officer, in my opinion, below are the only options available in law and legal ethics, depending on the circumstances:

1️⃣ Counsel can respectfully and politely call the court’s attention to such where it’s a minor default or slip — an example is default in following proper procedure. I was in Court in Lagos in 2022, when a judge tried to rebuke/punish a man for some perceived misbehaviour in court in respect of the proceedings (perhaps inadvertently) without first affording the affected person an opportunity of being heard.

Mr. Femi FALANA, SAN stood up in court and very respectfully and politely drew the court’s attention to the slip. The Court was grateful for learned silk’s kindness, and immediately proceeded to do the right thing by allowing the man to give his own side, at the end of which the controversy got peacefully resolved and no punishment was handed to the man, as the judge now understood the real issues. Please note that in drawing the attention of the judge to perceived slips, care must be taken to ensure ABSOLUTE POLITENESS and UNDILUTED CANDOUR on the part of Counsel. In this regard, anything that could cause the presiding judge unnecessary embarrassment must be avoided.

2️⃣ Where the judge has displayed clear acts of bias, prejudice, or other form of prejudicial interference with the proceedings or descending into the arena of conflict in a manner that could reasonably be interpreted to constitute the judge a Hippy Harlet (see Sunday Okoduwa v. State), etc, counsel could file an application to have the judge disqualify himself from continuing to hear the case; or

3️⃣ In more serious cases, it’s an option for counsel to apply to the CJ (or other head of the court) to have the case file withdrawn from the misbehaving trial judge and then reassigned to another judge; or

4️⃣ Counsel could make that a ground of appeal after judgment. Exactly this is what happened in Sunday Okoduwa v State (1986) 2 NWLR (pt 76) 333

5️⃣ In more extreme cases, especially where the alleged misconduct amounts to professional misconduct or a breach of the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers, counsel or his client could file a petition before the NJC for professional discipline.

6️⃣ Counsel may choose to take no steps at all, especially where the alleged misbehaviour on the part of the judge is negligible. Counsel appearing before a judge should know that sometimes, complex on the part of a presiding judge could cause the judge to engage in some petty, irritating conduct during proceedings, just to express his complex or to try to annoy the lawyer. Sometimes, some Judges do these unconsciously, without any deliberate intention to obstruct justice or prejudice any party, but merely as a result of complex or other petty and myopic prejudices or thought. Counsel should be mature enough to know when to ignore the shenanigans of a petty presiding judge.

Finally, counsel must know that demeanor varies from judge to judge. Hence, the fact that a particular judge behaved in a particular admirable manner doesn’t mean that another judge must act in a similar manner. Judges are human beings; the rule that requires you to show respect to the presiding judge doesn’t say that the Judges are infallible, perfect or otherwise all-knowing. Hence, Counsel should leave minimum room for some differences or variation in the manner judges conduct themselves in court.

“Know Your Judge” is a cardinal guiding principle in Courtroom Advocacy. Lawyers appearing in courts as advocates must learn to understand the nuances of judges. Approaches differ from judge to judge.

WARNING:
?️ Under NO circumstances should a lawyer walk out on a judge/court or disrespect or otherwise engage in any form of altercation with, or verbal abuse against, or exchange with, the judge! Doing any of those is a serious form of disrespect to a court of law.

?️ Generally, regarding LAWYER’S RELATIONS WITH THE COURT, Rule 30 of the RPC provides
that “A lawyer is an officer of the court and accordingly, he shall not do any act or conduct himself in any manner that may obstruct, delay or adversely affect the administration of justice”.

Rule 31 provides that 
“31(1) A lawyer shall always treat the court with respect, dignity and honour.

(2) Where the lawyer has a proper ground for complaint against a judicial officer, he shall make his complaint to the appropriate authorities”.

* Sylvester Udemezue (udems) is the Proctor at Reality Ministry of Justice (RMJ) and can be reached at therealistministry@gmail.com.

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Re: National Judiciary Reform Summit Beyond the Talk Shop, Simple Technology Based Innovations to Ease Justice Administration in Nigeria.

By Douglas Ogbankwa 

The Federal Government and the Nigerian Bar Association gathered all the players in the Justice Sector for a reform summit. Beyond that, they needed to have brought those who will say what they do not want to hear. How many of these names were there? Aikpokpo Martins, Kunle Edun, Bayo Akinlade, Inebehe Effiong, Ike Augustine, Maxwell Uzoka, Maxwell Opara, my humble self -Douglas Ogbankwa, etc?

A reform summit should have reformists present and not just those who are the cause of the problem you want to reform. Truth be told, we are not ready for reforms. The simple things we can do, we do not do it. Take for example 4 Naira SMS to counsel or parties when the court is not sitting. How many judges ensure that is done?

The reason justice is slow in Nigeria is not just because of the many adjournments sought by lawyers; it is also because the Judiciary in Nigeria has not emulated their peers the world over who have moved alongside the technological advancement of society.

In this 21st Century, judges in Nigeria take records in long hand, as if we are in the 19th Century! Court files are still being moved physically from one place to the other, just as it was in the colonial era. Processes are still being filed physically just like the old post office syndrome. Counsel need to be physically present at all times in court when our peers around the world use teleconferencing to conduct matters and sometimes get urgent orders, which in legal parlance, are called Interim Orders.

To get a court to send you an SMS if the court is not sitting is a herculean task. The consequences are dire, as sometimes while the court will not sit, some counsel will travel very far while a few die by motor accident on their way to court. This would have been averted if the Registrar of the court had just sent a simple SMS.

In this regard, I wish to commend My Lord, the Hon. Justice Helen Morenike Ogunwumiju, the Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal, Benin Division, who has embraced technology by setting up a WhatsApp Group of Court Officials and Bar Leaders in My Lord’s Jurisdiction, from where the Cause List for the Week is posted and information whether the court is sitting or not and even dates of adjournments are posted timeously.

I will also commend the Head of the Front Desk Session of the Court, Mrs. Tugai, Ovigue Ogbodo, Mr. Ishmael and others. Though they are all lawyers, they are internet savvy and relay information relating to the court at the speed of light!

I urge other courts to emulate the Court of Appeal, Benin, and to also send an SMS to counsel if the court is not sitting .

Financial Autonomy of the Judiciary – which is provided for by the Constitution but has not been obeyed by the Executive – is paramount in ensuring a technological transformation system in the Judiciary.

Why should the Judiciary go cap in hand to the Executive any time they need anything? Where then is the independence of the Judiciary? And how can we vouch for the integrity of the judicial process when the Executive controls the purse and the sword? In the same Edo State, officials to man verbatim recorders have been trained for close to two years now and till date, the verbatim recorders have not been purchased or deployed. So why train the officials to man the verbatim recorders in the first place?

In any case, the Governors have mostly hijacked the Judiciary in many States, as many Chief Judges are mere figure-heads. The NBA Excos are aware of this, but they are scared of what they will lose from the Governors if they tackled them. Merchantile or Transactional Bar Leaders have taken over a lot of branches and places in the NBA. You no longer hear the truth; what you hear now are the figures.

The Nigerian Judiciary must embrace technology in the following manners:

1. Embrace the E-filing concept. CAC and FIRS have shown that you can file processes online in a seamless manner.

2. Courts in Nigeria should adopt the verbatim recording system that allows an electronic recording of proceedings. From experience, this will reduce by half the duration of time for conducting cases and give an accurate record of proceedings in court.

3. Courts should set up WhatsApp groups of key court officials and Bar Leaders. The information posted there on activities of courts will be relayed by Bar Leaders to their Branch WhatsApp groups.

4. Courts should adopt an electronic file management system to make storage of court documents safe and easier to access.

5. Courts should adopt teleconferencing with time to stop the incidence of adjournments. Counsel can appear in court from anywhere in the world. This is what is applicable in other climes.

6. Courts should allow electronic devices like laptops, phones etc to be used in court for research and accessing of materials online, real-time .

7. There should be CCTV cameras in every court to capture proceedings in visual form. Where there is a doubt as to what happened in court, it could be reviewed.

8. Courts should have a functional website where Cause List for each day and Judgments/Ruling can be assessed with ease. Phone numbers of Registrars should also be available to ensure they can be reached easily.

9. The Legal Assistants should all have laptops, just as judgments and rulings are given by the court. They should draw up the enrolment of Order and enrolment of judgment same day and ensure same is signed by the judge and issued out same day. It should be made compulsory that a judicial officer should not read a judgment without typing and signing same. This will ensure that judgments are got the same day to activate the process of a possible and timeous appeal.

We will do better as a body if all these are put into play.

• Douglas Ogbankwa is the Convener of the Vanguard for the Independence of the Judiciary.

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These are not the best of times for the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch as its members may have shunned a recent Special Court Session in honour of Sir Dixy Oddiri, its deceased one-time branch Secretary and Vice Chairman.

It is recalled that the special court session was scheduled to hold on Monday, 22nd April, 2024 at 2 pm in the premises of the High Court of Lagos State, Oba Akinjobi Way, Ikeja, Lagos.

Decrying the poor turn-out of branch members at the event, the Branch Secretary, Mr. Emuobonuvie Majemite described it as “less than encouraging.”

He stated that “we had a sparse number out of our over 17,000 registered members,” adding that he believed that members “can do better.”

It was unclear at press time what may have led to the poor turn-out.

Below is the full text of the Branch Secretary’s message.

Dear learned silk, seniors and colleagues,

Forgive me for intruding on your night’s rest. I write to thank the few members who were kind and gracious to attend the special court session held in honour of the Late Chief Joseph Edegware Oddiri, better known as Sir Dixy Oddiri. Expectedly, it was an emotive afternoon of rousing eulogies in his honour.

Click here to read the didactic speech of our leader, the Chairman, Mr. Olabisi Makanjuola.

Permit me to take a moment to bemoan the less than encouraging turn out of members at the special court session. Despite our repeated mention of the event at branch meetings, via our Whatsapp and Telegram platforms and via email, we had a sparse number out of our over 17,000 registered members. What is more, while some members contacted me to ask about stamps, others posted information about other lawyer groups in our social media platforms, all during the special court session that we were meant to be attending. I respectfully believe we can do better and urge us, with every sense of responsibility, to accord Bar events the seriousness they deserve.

I am grateful for your time. I wish you all a good night’s rest.

Respectful regards,

Emuobonuvie Alfred Majemite
Secretary

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Nigerian Afrobeat singer, Habeeb Okikiola, aka Portable, has said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), is planning to arrest him.

According to the artiste, “I am scared. The EFCC is planning to arrest me when I return to Nigeria because VeryDarkMan name-dropped me.”

The controversial artiste had before now begged the anti-graft agency to forgive him if they have any evidence against him abusing the Naira.

However, speaking in a recent Instagram live session with his fans, the ‘Zazu’ crooner, who is currently abroad said the financial crime agency will pick him up once he lands in Nigeria.

He said he became a target of EFCC after social media influencer and self-acclaimed activist, VeryDarkMan told the agency to go after him.

Portable said: “I am scared. The EFCC is planning to arrest me when I return to Nigeria because VeryDarkMan name-dropped me.

“VeryDarkMan abi VeryDarkBrain, you talk too much. Leave talk for people who have something reasonable to say. Are you a law enforcement officer? Your opinions on public affairs are for people in the law enforcement agencies. When you were arrested it was Nigerians who begged for your freedom. When you came out, you were lean; all your muscles disappeared.”

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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Second Vice President, Mr. Clement Ugo Chukwuemeka has disagreed sharply with NBA President, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN on the choice of venue for NBA National Executive Council (NEC) meetings.

In a post on his verified Facebook handle, Chukwuemeka decried what he termed as “Northernization” of NEC meetings, adding that hosting the meetings in states that lack airports lead to increased risks and cost for NEC members.

According to Chukwuemeka, “I am not against any branch of the northern extraction witnessing and or hosting the NEC meetings but we must take note and appreciate the financial implication and risk attached to branch reps to NEC when they travel to some states that do not have direct flights from their base.”

The fiery Bar Leader stated that he is “of the firm view that NEC meetings should be spread across regions or held in Abuja if there is no fund or held virtual in worst case scenarios,” adding that “North can not continue to host NEC meetings to the exclusion of other regions. I understand the powers of the president and GS in fixing meetings of such nature hence they can fix meetings at the River Niger and no one will question them, but I am pleading that meetings for the remaining days in the office should be spread to other regions other than North including this present alleged YOLA emergency meeting. Where we do not have sponsors, 100% virtual should be encouraged to save funds for the association as our president has always advocated.”

He alleged that NEC hosting is being used to ‘appease’ states, adding that the NBA leadership “put money first” in its choice of NEC venue.

CITY LAWYER gathered from an unimpeachable source that the NBA Second Vice President had raised the matter within the NBA Executive Committee, though there are strong indications that his veiled protest did not yield fruit.

Aside from Abuja which is the headquarters of the association, past NEC meetings seem to have held exclusively within the Northern Zone, including meetings at Kebbi, Jos and the forthcoming meeting in Yola.

Below is the full text of his post.

The emergency NEC meeting is contained in our NBA constitution as amended, but must we have same physical?

Does the agenda for the Presentation of Report/Budget By the AGCPC and ECNBA report qualifies (sic)  as emergency in this context?

Can we handle the two agendas via virtual to save money and precious time?

I am not against any branch of the northern extraction witnessing and or hosting the NEC meetings but we must take note and appreciate the financial implication and risk attached to branch reps to NEC when they travel to some states that do not have direct flights from their base.

It is very important to remind us that we operate a regional style of NBA, where the constitution recognizes The North, The East and the West. But in the secular national terrain , we have North and South.

I have equally realized that the president in trying to appoint members of the profession in various committees despite ignoring the exco inputs in most cases has consistently followed the regional spread in doing so. That I must applaud.

I am of the firm view that NEC meetings should be spread across regions or held in Abuja if there is no fund or held virtual in worst case scenarios .

This will encourage participation and attendance.

North can not continue to host NEC meetings to the exclusion of other regions , I understand the powers of the president and GS in fixing meetings of such nature hence they can fix meetings at the River Niger and no one will question them, but I am pleading that meetings for the remaining days in the office should be spread to other regions other than North including this present alleged YOLA emergency meeting, where we do not have sponsors , 100% virtual should be encouraged to save funds for the association as our president has always advocated.

Attendance and quality of discussion especially the state of the nation remains the major credit of successful NEC meetings and can only be encouraged by hosting same in assessable and flight friendly states where one can have easy and choice of flight daily.

Our far North, west and eastern NEC members that may not have direct flights may likely travel 2 days to YOLA , those that must use flight may likely spend so much to attend the NEC and such inconveniences will discourage and affect the output of NEC robust discussions . Count me out when ever NEC hosting rights will be for highest bidders.

Must state governors sponsor our programs? Why are we disgracing this lovely BAR? why are we accepting funding from the problem of this country?

Please GS and Mr President, both of you that have mandate of convoking a meeting by the constitution of NBA, should be interested in the welfare, life, health and attendance of our NBA NEC Members first before appeasing state apparatus of choice for a selfish cleansing gains. NBA as a body is a proud organization which its brand architecture can never be assuaged financially. We must take note of this. Because it pains me that we put money first in every of our discussion in choice of venue for our meetings. This need to stop. I am proud of NBA and I love her.

The horrific life threatening journey of our members to and fro YOLA from all 128 plus two branches should make us rethink and retrace our steps no matter the benefits of same . We have witnessed how a whole NEC meetings can no more attract any past President , elders , and core bar men in attendance , this is because our administration have turned NEC Meetings into a slaughter ground against any perceived enemy of the bar rather than its purpose . History of the Bar will never forgive this tenure which I am part of.

The branch chairmen and secretaries of NBA across Nigeria lives MATTERS! and I shall join many that may wish to opt out of the NEC because of the distance and risk associated to such journey as well as other reasons if other exco decides to withdraw their voices and support this exclusion of other regions from hosting NEC Meetings .

Clement Ugo Chukwuemeka Democrat detest anything that will affect the Bar Unity as well as progress, and I am totally against the monetization and Northernization of the NEC meetings, my northern friends will agree with me that , it is fair and equitable to move round for them to socialize with other regions as recognized by the NBA constitution as amended. But if every one will support same , who am I ? But let it be on record that leadership should spread the love to encourage brotherhood and love amongst the Bar. I am not against the north, but north should join the East and West in advocating for shift in this administration which has witnessed only Northern meetings since inception .

Clems
#Democrat2030

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More aspirants have taken to social media to issue disclaimers against electoral campaigns and visits in compliance with the latest notice by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA).

CITY LAWYER had yesterday chronicled the first set of aspirants to issue declaimers in line with the ECNBA warning against campaign visits and posts.

An aspirant stated that he was issuing the notice to the entire world since his disclaimer was not included in the CITY LAWYER publication, saying: “It has become important that I issue the above since the writer didn’t include my own disclaimer.”

The Committee had warned aspirants against embarking on campaigns and “campaign visit under any guise,” noting that it would disqualify any candidate found culpable.

In a notice made available to CITY LAWYER, the committee wrote: “Until the ECNBA declares campaigns open and set out the limited scope of such a campaign as provided in our Constitution, and relevant guidelines, no prospective candidate nor his/her supporters shall post, issue, print, publish, or display any campaign material, nor embark upon a campaign visit under any guise. Where evidence of such infraction is provided to the ECNBA, such a candidate shall be disqualified forthwith and shall not participate in the elections.”

CITY LAWYER however notes that issuance of disclaimers is not new to NBA Elections. Such disclaimers often follow warnings by the electoral body to mete out sanctions against aspirants or candidates in NBA Elections.

CITY LAWYER recalls that incumbent NBA General Secretary, Mr. Adesina Adegbite had issued a disclaimer on the eve of the 2022 NBA Elections. The notice reads:

NOTICE OF DISCLAIMER
Good evening, my respected colleagues

We are all aware that by the electoral guidelines put in place by the ECNBA, campaigns are to come to an end by 12 midnight today, 13/7/2022.

Accordingly, I take responsibility for all campaigns, literature, posts, etc that are made in my name or concerning my aspirations to be your General Secretary, _as at_ _11.59pm today,_ _13/7/2022._

Thereafter, any of such *campaigns, literature, posts, etc do not emanate from me or my teeming *supporters or my associates.

For the benefit of doubt and for emphasis, I hereby disclaim any campaigns, literature, posts, etc made in my name or concerning my aspirations to be your next General* *Secretary of NBA as from* 11.59pm today , 13/7/2022.

Thank you
Adesina Adegbite, Esq.,FICMC
Candidate for the position of the General Secretary of the NBA.
#nbadecides2022

Compliance Notice with ECNBA Directives Regarding Campaigning for NBA 2024 Elections

To All Concerned Parties,

I, Chukwuka Ikwuazom, SAN, a prospective candidate for the upcoming Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) 2024 Elections, hereby issue this statement to affirm my commitment to adhering strictly to the directives issued by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA).

In Notice No. 5 of April 1, 2024, the ECNBA has unequivocally banned any form of campaign activities by candidates and their supporters for the NBA 2024 Elections. In line with this directive, I urge all my esteemed supporters to refrain from engaging in any campaign efforts on my behalf, including but not limited to posting campaign materials or publications in my name, making donations, or any other form of promotional activities.

I wish to emphasize that I do not authorize or endorse any campaign activities undertaken on my behalf that contravene the directives of the ECNBA. As a prospective candidate for the NBA 2024 Elections, I am fully committed to upholding the principles of fairness and transparency in the electoral process, and I respect the authority of the ECNBA in regulating campaign activities.

Therefore, I call upon all my supporters to demonstrate their commitment to these principles by refraining from engaging in any form of campaigning on my behalf. Let us abide by the directives of the ECNBA and ensure a free, fair, and credible electoral process for the NBA 2024 Elections.

Thank you all.

Signed:

Chukwuka Ikwuazom, SAN

Important Notice to Supporters and Well-Wishers of Joyce Oduah
DISCLAIMER!

Distinguished Colleagues and Friends,

I wish to bring to your attention the recent circular released by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) on April 1st, 2024, which strongly warned that no form of campaign is allowed except officially authorized by the ECNBA.

I deeply appreciate your invaluable support and enthusiasm for my aspirations. However, in strict compliance with the guidelines set forth by the Electoral Committee, I urge you to refrain from sharing any campaign materials or posts related to me — Joyce Oduah — until further notice.

I hereby disclaim any campaign materials or posts that may circulate in my name prior to official authorisation by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association. Such materials are unauthorised and do not emanate from me. I urge my supporters to be vigilant and to await official communication from me regarding the commencement of the campaign.

Your cooperation and understanding in this matter are greatly appreciated, as it reflects your commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process. Together, we can ensure a fair and just campaign environment for all candidates.

Thank you

Joyce Oduah FICMC
Principal Partner, Joyce & Okey Oduah LP
Vice President West Africa Pan African Lawyer’s Union (PALU)
Imm. Past General Secretary NBA
Council Member, Commonwealth Lawyers Association
Fmr. Council Member International Bar Association
Principal Partner Joyce & Okey Oduah LP

NOTICE OF DISCLAIMER
Learned Seniors, Colleagues and Gentlemen of the Bar.

Sequel to the Notice No. 5 and warning issued by ECNBA, Mohammed I Tsav is hereby issuing a Notice of Disclaimer that he has not given consent or authorised any one to consult, post, campaign and solicit for vote or support under any pretext or guises or by any means that may undermine or breach the guidelines of ECNBA relating to 2024 NBA Election.

Therefore, M I. Tsav abides by the guidelines, notices and instructions of ECNBA and dissociates himself completely from publications by individuals or groups.

Thanks.

Friends of M. I. Tsav.
Olalekan I. Oladapo Esq.

Notice to all Supporters and Well-Wishers Of  Caroline Ladidi Anze-Bishop

DISCLAIMER!

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

New Month blessings to you and all yours.

I bring to your attention the recent circular released by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) on April 1st, 2024, which strongly warned that no form of campaign is allowed except officially authorized by the ECNBA.

Iam deeply thankful for your invaluable support and enthusiasm for my aspirations. However, in strict compliance with the guidelines set forth by the Electoral Committee, please kindly refrain from sharing any campaign materials or posts related to me —Caroline Ladidi Anze-Bishop— until further notice.

I hereby disclaim any campaign materials or posts that may circulate in my name prior to official authorisation by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association. Such materials are unauthorised and do not emanate from me. I urge my supporters to be vigilant and to await official communication from me regarding the commencement of the campaign.

Your cooperation and understanding in this matter is greatly solicited and appreciated, as it reflects your commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process. Together, we can get it right.

Thank you

Caroline Ladidi Anze-Bishop AICMC
NBA National Treasurer.

Compliance Notice with ECNBA Directives Regarding Campaigning for NBA 2024 Elections

Learned Silk, Seniors and Distinguished Colleagues,

I, Michael O Olorunmola Esq , an Aspirant in the upcoming Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) 2024 Elections, hereby issue this statement to affirm my commitment to adhering strictly to the directives issued by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA).

The ECNBA, in its Notice No. 5 published on 1st April, 2024, has expressly banned any form of campaign activities by Aspirants and their supporters for the NBA 2024 Elections.
In line with the said directives, I wish to implore all my esteemed supporters to refrain from engaging in any campaign activities on my behalf, including posting campaign materials or publications in my name, or any other form of promotional activities.

It needs be emphasized that I do not authorize or endorse any campaign activities undertaken on my behalf that contravene the directives of the ECNBA as I am fully committed to upholding the principles of fairness and transparency in the electoral process with absolute regard to the authority of the ECNBA in regulating campaign activities.

I, therefore, call upon all my supporters to abide by the directives of the ECNBA and ensure a free, fair, and credible electoral process for the NBA 2024 Elections.

Thank you all.

Signed:

Michael O. Olorunmola Esq

ECNBA Notice No 5 : Disclaimer by Bridget Ijeoma Edokwe Esq
In compliance with the guidelines set forth by the ECNBA in Notice Number 5 which prohibits Campaign under any guise, I wish to categorically State that I, Bridget Ijeoma Edokwe Esq, hereby pledge to abide by the said Notice.

I hereby disclaim and disassociate myself from any publication in whatsoever form, that will contravene the ECNBA Directive on election. Any such material does not have my authority nor the Authority of my Leaders, Learned Friends and Supporters.

I humbly plead with all my Leaders, Learned Friends, and supporters to respect ECNBA Ban on Campaign and adhere strictly to the ECNBA’s Notice Number 5 while we wait for the campaign period as will be allowed by the ECNBA.

I am grateful for the overwhelming encouragement, support and prayers that I have received in my quest to serve the Bar.

May God’s blessings Continue to abide with us always.

Bridget Ijeoma Edokwe Esq
Publisher, barristerng.com law and politics news blog

DISCLAIMER!!! ⚠️

I, LAWRENCE AYEWA Esq after carefully going through ECNBA NOTICE NO 5, hereby unequivocally state that:

I will abide by the warning, advice and directive contained in the said Notice.

I have not and will not authorise any body, individual or body corporate to issue any statement, publication, hashtag or use my image as emoji in any WhatsApp group.

I have not given or authorised any body, individual or corporate to place any good will message for me in any Law Week Magazine of any branch.

Nobody should hashtag any publication with my name or mention the word Assistant Publicity in the same sentence with my name or image!

Any person doing so, is STRICTLY on his or her own and would be adjudged as my enemy working to get ECNBA to slam its harm on me!

It has become important that I issue the above.

Since the writer didn’t include my own disclaimer

Lawrence Shegun Ayewa

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The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) has warned aspirants against embarking on campaigns and “campaign visit under any guise,” warning that it would disqualify any candidate found culpable.

In a notice made available to CITY LAWYER, the committee wrote: “Until the ECNBA declares campaigns open and set out the limited scope of such a campaign as provided in our Constitution, and relevant guidelines, no prospective candidate nor his/her supporters shall post, issue, print, publish, or display any campaign material, nor embark upon a campaign visit under any guise. Where evidence of such infraction is provided to the ECNBA, such a candidate shall be disqualified forthwith and shall not participate in the elections.”

A press statement made available to CITY LAWYER reads:

NBA 2024 ELECTIONS: ECNBA BANS CAMPAIGN BY CANDIDATES AND SUPPORTERS

Distinguished Colleagues,

The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) has issued ECNBA Notice No. 5 reiterating the ban on campaign by candidates and supporters in the forthcoming elections of National Officers and NBA Representatives to the General Council of the Bar.

The Notice states that “…persons who have been issuing online posts, and messages with subtle campaign themes and innuendos are hereby warned to desist immediately.”

According to the ECNBA, until the Electoral Committee declares “…campaigns open and set out the limited scope of such a campaign as provided in our Constitution, and relevant guidelines, no prospective candidate nor his/her supporters shall post, issue, print, publish, or display any campaign material, nor embark upon a campaign visit under any guise. Where evidence of such infraction is provided to the ECNBA, such a candidate shall be disqualified forthwith and shall not participate in the elections.”

The ECNBA Notice is attached.

Thank you, and do have a restful holiday.

Akorede Habeeb Lawal
National Publicity Secretary

To read the full text of the ECNBA Notice, click here.

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Mrs. Nkiru Ifediora, an astute lawyer of about 17 years, serves in the Department of Public Prosecution, Anambra State Ministry of Justice.

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• JUSTICE UWA, NGIGE, USORO NOW LIFE BENCHERS

Eminent Bar Leader, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo SAN has assumed leadership of the Body of Benchers as its Chairman. This came on the heels of today’s meeting of the body which coincided with the end of the tenure of Justice Mary Odili as chairman of the elite body.

Meanwhile, the body has appointed six of its members as Life Benchers including Justice C. N. Uwa of the Supreme Court; Chief Emeka Ngige SAN, Chairman of the Council of Legal Education, and former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Paul Usoro SAN. 

Two members including Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and Mr. Mela Nunghe SAN were also appointed as Benchers, even as the Appointments Committee bemoaned the fact that it could not treat 17 nominees for appointment as Benchers due to a legal cap of 20 members for that category. The committee noted that unless the Body of Benchers Regulations are amended, it would continue to be hamstrung in recommending more aspirants for appointment as Benchers.

In an acceptance speech obtained by CITY LAWYER, Awomolo stated that “Today’s honour is not by my learning, might or strength as an individual but the goodwill of all you the noblest in the legal profession and importance attached to the letters of law, respect for the rule of law as opposed to the rule of might.”

While commending Justice Odili for her “inclusivity” and consensus building, the Bar Leader stated that the body has a huge task ahead of it especially in light of proposed amendment of Nigeria’s Constitution and the Legal Practitioners Act.

His words: “There was reported in the media yesterday of the proposed alteration of the Constitution which would make appointment, discipline and removal of judicial officers in the States the prerogative of the Governors. This move is alarming and will creates (sic) a threat to the independence of the Judiciary. The Body cannot be passive or ‘siddon’ look. The danger in this move is to take the Judiciary back to pre-1999.”

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Tobenna Erojikwe Announces NBA-ICLE Partnership with Global Law Firm, Mischon de Reya for Arbitration Mentorship Scheme

The Nigerian Bar Association Institute of Continuing Legal Education (NBA-ICLE) has entered into a strategic partnership with the leading global law firm Mischon de Reya to provide mentorship opportunities for Nigerian lawyers in the field of international commercial arbitration.

This announcement was made by Tobenna Erojikwe, Chairman of the NBA-ICLE Board, in an email to colleagues. The mentorship scheme will be led by Greg Folkof of Mischon de Reya and aims to contribute to the career growth and advancement of the selected mentees.

Following a highly competitive process that saw over 300 applications, six lawyers representing the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria have been chosen to participate in the inaugural phase of the mentorship program. The successful applicants are:

1. Prof. Abdul Hamid Oba Yusuf (North Central – Ilorin Branch);
2. ⁠Dr. Joy Akighbe (South-South – Benin Branch);
3. ⁠Samuel Atilade (South West – Lagos Branch);
4. ⁠Abubakar Sadiq Usman (North East – Damaturu Branch);
5. ⁠Tukur Badamasi Dabai (North West – Kaduna Branch); and
6. ⁠Chinedu Okoro (South East – Onitsha Branch)

In his email, Erojikwe expressed hope that this mentorship initiative will be beneficial to the mentees and contribute to their respective career growth and advancement. He also revealed that the NBA-ICLE is actively pursuing similar opportunities with other organisations and will announce them in due course.

The partnership with Mischon de Reya is a significant development for the NBA-ICLE, as it provides Nigerian lawyers with access to global expertise and resources in the field of international commercial arbitration. This aligns with the NBA-ICLE’s mission to promote continuing legal education and professional development for its members.

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I have carefully analysed the reports of events coming out since the gruesome Murder of our Learned Colleague and Brother – Barr Elias Ugwu by the Police at Anyigba Kogi State and hereby unequivocally call for a special investigation into the events leading to the bizarre and inhumane annihilation of a brave lawyer by the same Police who ordinarily ought to have prevented the kidnapping or even midwifed all processes leading to the release of the victims but instead, has chosen to willfully, brutally and recklessly reward a brave Innocent Lawyer with certain death.

I say without equivocation that the acts of the Police and their press release is insensitive to the feelings of the bereaved and the Bar and a deliberate mockery at our collective sense of reason and justice.

I join all men of goodwill to call on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Executive Governor of Enugu State, the Senator representing Nsukka Senatorial district to urgently wade into this matter and set up a high-powered inter-agency committee made up of the Army, the DSS and the Police to unravel the mystery and the true circumstances leading to this wanton execution of an innocent citizen who only erred in his bid to save life, a function largely abdicated by the State.

Dr. Gerald Abonyi
Pioneer Chairman, NBA Obollo-Afor Branch

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• Afam Osigwe, SAN Mourns the demise of John Mbaisaga, Esq (Past Chairman, NBA Gboko Branch) and Alhaji Waziri Hibatullahi Salako (Past President of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria and Chairman, NBA Ota Branch).

I received with shock the news of the the passing of two of our esteemed colleagues, John Mbaisaga, Esq (Past Chairman, NBA Gboko Branch) and Alhaji Waziri Hibatullahi Salako (Past President of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria and Chairman, NBA Ota Branch).

Mr. John Mbaisaga Tyokegh, our beloved colleague, and compatriot, departed after a courageous battle with illness. His unwavering dedication to justice, his exemplary integrity, leadership, and his profound commitment to serving others have touched the lives of countless individuals. Mr. Tyokegh’s legacy will continue to inspire us and guide our path forward.

Alhaji Waziri Hibatullahi Salako, a distinguished leader who served as President of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN) and Chairman of the NBA Ota Branch. His leadership, wisdom, and tireless advocacy have left an enduring impact on us and the broader legal community. Alhaji Waziri Hibatullahi Salako’s legacy will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

My thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, NBA Gboko Branch, MULAN and NBA Ota branch during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the fond memories shared and strength in the enduring impact of our colleagues’ lives.

Rest in peace, dear colleagues. You will be deeply missed, but your spirit will continue to live on in our hearts.

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JEE NKEOMA COMRADE, EVANGELIST, DR. D.O.C. EZEIGWE

Dear D.O.C,

Last Friday, the 15th day of March, 2024, I joined the legal family and your family to commit the remains of your body to mother earth. As I was watching your casket being lowered, I began to cogitate on your life and time while you were with us. Your approach to life and issues were quite easy. To me, you were a jolly good fellow.

Thank you for your SMS dated 28th July, 2020 that gave me words of encouragement. I had ran NBA election for the office of Welfare Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association against my good friend, Kunle Edun Esq. and I lost the election to him. On the 28th day of July, as early as 5:00am I got an SMS from you, (our father, mentor and a true bar man, D.O.C). The content reads: “Anyia, be courageous. You have done your best. It may not be your turn now, but certainly your turn will come one day. We know you as a true bar man. Keep your ambition alive.”

These words of encouragement endeared you more to my heart as your words gave me additional strength and belief that there are people out there who still believe in my ability to serve the Bar. To be honest, I am finding it difficult to believe that you are no more alive. I will miss your calls, where each call always ended with “by His Grace”. I will miss your fairness to issues. You were always quick with your praise as you were with any disapproval. I will truly miss the fatherly love, gestures and words of encouragement you have offered me.

I thank God for giving me the opportunity to get to know you. I thank God for the gift of your life and for the legacy you left behind in the legal profession. You were never afraid to speak out your mind on burning issues. You never discriminated, you took everyone as one. That explains why your friends cut across the entire nation. You were a very straight-forward man. I tell you most solemnly, you will never be forgotten easily in the legal palace.

David Obideje Chukwudilim Ezeigwe had made indelible strides as a lawyer and as a bar man for the enrichment of the legal profession. He was a tireless leader in law, very pleasant in disposition and great in discipline. A worthy elder in the profession. I will miss you immeasurably.

Sabastine Anyia Esq.
Former Chairman, NBA Aguata Branch & former Chairman of Committee of Chairmen and Secretaries of NBA, Anambra state.

NLS MOURNS THE LOSS OF SENATOR SODANGI ABUBAKAR, ESQ.

Abubakar Danso Sodangi born 31 January 1954 was elected Senator for the Nasarawa West constituency of Nasarawa State, Nigeria, taking office in May 1999, and was reelected in 2003 and 2007.

The late Senator Abubakar worked as a preventive Officer with the Department of Customs & Excise (1974–1977). He then attended the school of Preliminary Studies, Keffi (1977–1979) and the University of Sokoto (1979–1983) were he gained an LLB (Hons).

He attended the Nigeria Law School, Lagos, becoming a Barrister at Law in May 1984.

He was a member of several professional bodies including Commonwealth Lawyers Association, African Bar Association, International Bar Association and the Nigerian Law Society before his passing on at the early hours of today 11th March 2024 at the age of 70 years old

He served as a Member of the Board of Directors of PRTV, member of the National Human Rights Commission and Assistant Secretary, Federal Capital Territory Judiciary.

Sodangi was one of the founding members of the PDP who later join the APC. He was elected to the Senate seat in 1999, and was re-elected in 2003 and 2007. After resuming his seat in 2007, he was appointed to committees on Judiciary, Human Rights & Legal Matters, Interior Affairs, Foreign Affairs and Federal Capital Territory.

He also served as chairman NBA Abuja Branch and thereafter as National Legal Adviser of NBA before joining the NLS

The late Senator Abubakar was also before his death the Chairman of the Board of trustees of Human Rights Radio, established to promote respect for Human Rights in Nigeria.

We at NLS condole with his family as we mourn this great loss.

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Solar For All: Olivia Ngozi Nwachukwu Esq Mrs [NBA Lagos Branch] is our “Star Client of the week”

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(Lagos) No 113A, Mainland Way, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi.
(Enugu State) Ehalumona Junction, Nsukka.

The Solar For All Lagos/South-West Nigeria team are grateful to have been hosted at one of the apartments of this beautiful Amazon who also sits on the the Board of Directors of one of the best Luxury Apartments/Hospitality Companies in Lagos, Nigeria – Cardo Apartments, No. 1 Dominic Obijiaku Street, Divine Estate, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.

It was a Solar System which carries all the basics in the apartment, ensures steady Power Supply and a reduction of the power cost to less than half.

Other beneficiaries from whom the efficiency of delivery can be verified include: Chief James Ogu Onoja SAN (Ofante Kogi State); Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye [the Soun of Ogbomoso]; Mrs. Ezinwa Nwanyieze Okoroafor Esq.; Dr. Chike Okogwu; Mr. Stephen Arubuike Esq. of G. Elias SAN &Co; Chief Solomon Umoh SAN; Alhj. Ohio Abdullahi; Amb. Gen. Tukur Burutai (COAS Rtd); Chief S. I. Ameh SAN; Dr. Monday Onyekachi Ubani Esq; Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN; Sir Ebun Olu Adegboruwa SAN; Dr. Anthony Ani (Federal Medical Center Cooperatives); Mr. Lawrence Nwaketi; Mrs. Amina Agbaje Esq (FIDA Nigeria CVP); Prof. Dr. Olusola Oke (UNILAG COLLEGE OF MEDICINE); Dr. Muiz Banire SAN; Chief Jude Onwuharonye Esq.; High Chief Emeka J-P Obegolu SAN; Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN; Chief J-K Gadzama SAN; Hon. Justice George Oguntade (Justice of the Supreme Court Rtd); Sir James Ononiwu (NBA Ikeja); Chief Ejiofor Onwuaso (Otu Oka-Iwu Abuja); Hon. Sir. Ebuka Igwe (Anambra State House of Assembly); Prince Adetosoye Adebiyi Esq.; Mr. Paul Daudu Esq (J.B Daudu SAN & Co); Mr. Benedict Daudu Esq; Chief Peter Ilegogie Esq; Aare Muyiwa Akinboro SAN; Aare Isiaka Olagunju SAN; Dr. Babatunde Ajibade SAN (SPA Ajibade SAN & Co); FIDA Nigeria (FIDA House Abuja); Prince Adetokunbo Kayode SAN; Dr. Mrs. Ayorinde (Ayorinde SAN & Co); Mrs. Mariam Agbaboka; Barr. Mrs. Rachel Ebun Akerele; Mr. Anthony Malik SAN; Chief Tawo E. Tawo SAN; Chief Kemi Pinheiro SAN; Mr. I. M. Dikko SAN (Liman, Liman SAN & Co); Hon. Justice Emeka Nriezedi (Anambra State Judiciary); Dr. Hassan Liman SAN; Chief J. U. K. Igwe SAN; Mr. Chike Ekeocha, Esq. (Alex Izinyon SAN & Co/SUEX Nig. Ltd); Mummy Sylvia Okoregbe Esq; John Ochogwu, Esq; Hon. Rodrich Ugwu Esq; Prof. Godson Ogbonna (Abia State University, Uturu); Sir Austin Mwana Esq; Mr. Thony Lyiod Onyemaizu Esq; Dr. Agada Elachi Esq; Mr. Zach Akubo (S. I. Ameh SAN & Co); Mr. Ime Edem-nse Esq; Mr. Edafe Mrakpor Esq. (Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development); Ebedebiri Cottage Hospital, Sagbama LGA, 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, Wukari, Taraba State; Alhaji Abdulrahman Adamu (Trademoore Estate), among many others.

Some of the distinguishing benefits of Solar/Inverters include:
*Solar is cheaper at long-run!

*24 hours Power Supply for homes/offices

* Your current Power cost will drop by at least 50% after we install

*No noise!

*No Pollution!

*Automatic change over!

*No fueling

* 25 years warranty on the German Cells Solar panels.

To view the price list, click here

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Mrs. Titi Ogunbanjo, wife of deceased former Chairman of Nigeria Exchange (NGX) Group, Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo clocked a new age yesterday.

However, the death of her husband in a helicopter crash in the United States last Friday night has thrown the family into mourning and ensured that the family did not roll out drums to mark her birthday.

Ogunbanjo died alongside Dr. Herbert Wigwe, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, when the helicopter went down. Wigwe’s wife, Chizoba and first son, Chizi also died in the air crash.

In an Instagram post on Monday, the chief executive officer of UBA Foundation, Ms. Bola Atta asked the public to pray for the bereaved.

She wrote: “Titi darling, it’s your birthday today and even though you are not celebrating, I hope everyone who sees this post will say a prayer for you and remember the deep love you and Bimbo share ❤️❤️ May he rest in God’s bosom until you both meet again.” 

Writing @karenkoshoniinteriors, Ms. Karen Koshoni said: “Happy Birthday Titi, may God’s love surround you today and always , we grieve with you and hold you and the children up in prayers ❤️”

G. Aminah wrote: “Happy Birthday and God’s speed always to our beautiful Sis.”

Meanwhile, Beta Glass, a subsidiary of Frigoglass Group, says it will communicate its board’s succession plan after the demise of Ogunbanjo, its chairman.

In a corporate filing on Monday, Beta Glass said its board of directors will continue to provide support, in the meantime. “In due time Beta Glass and the Frigoglass Group will communicate the board’s succession plan. In the interim, the Company will continue to receive support from its Board of Directors,” the company said.

Ogunbanjo was the chairman of NGX Group, the non-operating holding company that emerged from the demutualisation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) from 2021 to 2022.

Born in Nigeria to the family of the Doyen of Corporate Law in Nigeria, Chief Chris Ogunbanjo and wife Hilda, Ogunbanjo continued in the family’s tradition by studying to become a lawyer. Until his death, he was the Managing Partner of Chris Ogunbanjo LP, an upscale commercial law firm.

MEDIA ROOM HUB reports that on October 11, 2022,  former President Muhammadu Buhari conferred the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) on him for his contributions to the development of the capital market and corporate law.

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Former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Olumide Akpata has been dismissed as a member of the influential National Judicial Council (NJC), CITY LAWYER can authoritatively report.

CITY LAWYER gathered from unimpeachable sources that the decision to terminate Akpata’s membership of the elite body was conveyed to incumbent NBA President, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN.

The letter which was signed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola who also doubles as the NJC Chairman, urged the lawyers’ body to nominate another representative to replace Akpata on the basis that he has joined ‘partisan politics.’

The former NBA President has not hidden his quest to contest the governorship of Edo State in the forthcoming election.

CITY LAWYER however gathered from an impeccable source who is familiar with the matter that Akpata “is highly worried by the CJN’s decision.”

According to the source, the thinking in the Akpata camp is that the Chief Justice of Nigeria lacks the power to dismiss a member of the NJC especially on the basis of joining partisan politics. 

The source cited an example of former Bauchi State Governor Mohammed Abubakar who voluntarily quit the NJC to focus on his political quest, saying the prerogative is that of the member to weigh his options. Abubakar was appointed member of the NJC in June 2013 and elected Bauchi State Governor on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on 11th April, 2015.

According to the source, while Akpata is highly distraught by the turn of events, “He has been restrained by his enormous respect for the CJN, and would want to explore all possible avenues to amicably redress this grievous injustice.”

He however warned that “this matter may ultimately be resolved by the courts should everything else fail. Rest assured that this decision cannot stand.”

Though CITY LAWYER sought the views of NJC spokesman, Mr. Soji Oye on the matter, he had not responded at press time.

CITY LAWYER recalls that as NBA President, Akpata had a running battle with the leadership of the Body of Benchers. He also tackled the leadership of the Court of Appeal over appointment of justices of the appellate court. Akpata is believed to belong to the ‘progressive and reformist bloc’ within the NJC.

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Nigeria’s Body of Benchers has set up a committee to investigate the incidence of conflicting judgements and media trial.

In a notice obtained by CITY LAWYER, the body urged members “to kindly forward memorandum and presentations on the subject to the Body of Benchers Secretariat or via email (bodyofbenchersnigeria@gmail.com) within one week of receipt of this notice for consideration by the Committee.”

Signed by Mr. Daniel Tela, Secretary to the Body of Benchers, the elite group recalled that it had after its November 30, 2023 meeting “constituted an Extra-Ordinary Committee on Judicial Matters to look into the issues of conflicting judgments from superior courts and media trial plaguing the legal profession.”

The notice is dated 18th January, 2024 and titled “REQUEST FOR MEMORANDUM AND PRESENTATIONS ON CONFLICTING JUDGEMENTS OF SUPERIOR COURTS AND MEDIA TRIAL.”

It was unclear when the committee is expected to submit its report.

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NEWS RELEASE

REGISTRATION OF NLS: PROMOTERS OF THE NIGERIAN LAW SOCIETY WIN COURT CASE AGAINST CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION

On Friday, 15th December, 2023, the Federal High Court sitting at Abuja coram Hon. Justice G. K. Olotu delivered its judgment in favour of the Plaintiffs in Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN & 5 ORS V. Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) (FHC/ABJ/CS/482/2023).

The Plaintiffs (Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN, Audu Mela Nunghe, Ambassador Garba Gajam and Ors.), represented by Mr. Clement Onwewunor SAN and Mr. Kingdom Okere, a human rights lawyer, argued in their Originating Summons that the Plaintiffs submitted two separate applications to the Defendant for registration as an incorporated trustee but the Defendant, under the leadership of the former Registrar General, Mr. Garba Abubakar, refused to approve any of the names proposed, claiming that the names are similar to that of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and would be misleading. The Defendant also claimed lack of spread and national character.

The Plaintiffs on their part contended that the actions of the Defendant violated their right under section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, Article 10 of the African Charter, and Article 20 of the Universal Declaration of Human Right (UDHR).

The Court, in its judgment rejecting the argument of the CAC in both the Preliminary Objection and the substantive Suit, held that the right to peaceful assembly and association guaranteed under Section 40 of the CFRN 1999 covers the kind of association the Plaintiffs intend to register, likewise Article 10 of the African Charter and Article 20 of the UDHR.

The Court also stated that it cannot find anywhere under sections 823, 824 and 825 of CAMA where spread and national character was stated as pre-conditions for registration of an incorporated trustee by the Defendant.

On the issue of similarity with NBA , the court stated that the name ” Society of Nigerian Lawyers” does not share any similarity with the Nigerian Bar Association and that ” Nigerian Law Society” (NLS) only shares one word with the NBA, which is “Nigerian”.

The court further held that “Association of Legal Practitioners” only shares one word with the NBA, which is “Association” but does not mean that the names stated above are identical to that of the NBA and capable of misleading the public. Hence, there is no iota of justification for the Defendant’s rejection of any of the proposed names on the grounds that the names are identical to the NBA and are capable of misleading the public and so should not be registered.

On the issue of the Plaintiffs seeking approval from the NBA, the court further held that NBA is not a government department or body but just an incorporated trustee and cannot change its status from an incorporated trustee to government department/body. Therefore, the contention of the Defendant in this regard cannot hold water. Accordingly, the court found in favour of the Plaintiffs.

NLS has since notified the CAC which is expected to register the name under the leadership of the new Registrar General, Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, SAN, to formally register same.

The year 2024 promises to be a wonderful one for the legal profession and the Judiciary as many radical, dynamic and impactful changes appear to be on the front burner.

Bayo Akinlade Esq
Publicity Secretary NLS

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A legal practitioner known for his oratorical deftness and prowess, Mr. Victor Ugwuezumba Opara SAN was born in Owerri, Imo State to a lawyer-father, Mr. Nathan Anamelechi Opara and Mrs. Joy Opara, both deceased.

An alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, Opara was admitted to the Nigerian Bar in 1989. He again earned an LLM degree from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife in 1991.

He is currently the Principal of Victor Opara’s Chambers, a litigation-oriented law firm. Opara is an active member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

He has a bias for criminal litigation, and has participated actively in several criminal cases at all levels of court up to the Supreme Court. He has worked in various capacities including being Managing Counsel, S. O. Aoko & Co.; Managing Partner, K. C. Ikonne & Co.; Editor, Laws of Nigeria Project, anchored by the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), University of Lagos Campus, and Research Assistant, Center for African Law and Development Studies.

Opara is the incumbent Chairman of the Continuing Legal Education & Practice Development Committee, NBA Ikeja Branch, Lagos State, a position he has held for an unbroken period of about 20 years. He also has numerous published legal articles to his credit.

His other professional affiliations include Fellow, Chartered Institute of Loan and Risk Management of Nigeria; Fellow, Certified Institute of Auctioneers, Nigeria; Fellow, Institute of Strategic Customer Service and Trade Management of Nigeria (FCSTM); Member, Nigerian Bar Association; Member, International Bar Association; Member, Institute of Management Consultants (MIMC), and Associate Member, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Nigeria (ACIArb).

‘Opara is the incumbent Chairman of the Continuing Legal Education & Practice Development Committee, NBA Ikeja Branch, Lagos State, a position he has held for an unbroken period of about 20 years.’

Others are Member, Institute of Chartered Mediators & Conciliators (ChMc); Senior Member, Institute of Public Management Nigeria; Associate Member, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (ACTI); Associate Member, Certified Institute of Shipping of Nigeria (ACIS), and Member, Lagos Court of Arbitration.

Opara is on the Panel of Neutrals of the Lagos Multi Door Courthouse (LMDC). He is reputed as a public commentator and human rights activist.

PUBLICATIONS

i. Default Judgments of Court: what are they? Published in Daily Independent of Thursday, June 16 2005.

ii. My Lord, I am speaking from the Bar, published in Daily Independent in 2005.

iii. What manner of Marriage is yours? Published in PUNCH, of October 13 2003.

iv. Fundamental Rights – need for the Chief Justice of Nigeria to make rules for Enforcement, published in PUNCH, September 29 2003.

v. Discharging Ex-parte Interim Injunctions; published in PUNCH of Monday, August 18, 2003.

vi. Utility of Hearing Notices, published in PUNCH, on August 4, 2003.

vii. The Doctrine of Non-Disclosure in Nigerian (Non-Marine) Insurance Law (Unpublished LL.M Dissertation) submitted to the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State in 1991.

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

 Fellow, Chartered Institute of Loan and Risk Management of Nigeria
 Fellow, Certified Institute of Auctioneers, Nigeria
 Fellow, Institute of Strategic Customer Service and Trade Management of Nigeria (FCSTM)
 Member, Nigerian Bar Association
 Member, International Bar Association
 Member, Institute of Management Consultants. (MIMC)
 Associate Member, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Nigeria (ACIArb)
 Member, Institute of Chartered Mediators & Conciliators (ChMc)
 Senior Member, Institute of Public Management Nigeria
 Associate Member, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (ACTI)
 Associate Member, Certified Institute of Shipping of Nigeria (ACIS)
 Member, Lagos Court of Arbitration

POSITIONS HELD 

• Member, Annual Committee for Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Lecture [Gani Fawehinmism] 2020 – 2021
• Member, Pro bono Committee for Defence of EndSARS Protest Suspects, Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch [2020]
• Member, Caretaker Committee, Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch [(2020) [appointed by the National Body of Nigerian Bar Association under the Olumide Akpata led command]. The Committee successfully conducted elections into various positions and posts in the Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch on 11th day of December 2020 and later swore in successful candidates on the said dates
• Member, Section on Public Interest and Development Law, Nigerian Bar Association [SPIDEL]
• Active Participant in Pro bono Scheme/Partner with Lagos State Ministry of Justice
• Chairman of the Continuing Legal Education Committee, Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch, Lagos State; 2004 – 2018
• Chairman of the Continuing Legal Education & Practice Development Committee, Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja

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Solar For All: Sir.Stephen Chima Arubuike Esq (NBA Lagos] is our “Star Client of the week”.

It is the the second bite on the cherry for this astute Legal Practitioner cum Partner at G. Elias SAN & Co, having been enjoying our Solar Energy Solutions in his Abia State home.

To get an efficient Solar system anywhere in Nigeria with 25 years warranty and “Pay Small Small,” call/chat Solar For All Ltd: 08060266163.

Visit: SolarForAll.ng
(Abuja) Suite A8, Kenuj O2 Mall ,Behind Games Village.
(Lagos) No 113A, Mainland Way, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi.
(Enugu State) Ehalumona Junction, Nsukka.

The Solar For All Lagos/South-West team are grateful to have been hosted at the Lagos home of the distinguished Sir. Arubuike. He assists multinationals, indigenous start-ups, and private equity firms to organize their businesses in Nigeria to reduce their tax burden and to comply with other Nigerian laws and regulatory requirements.

He also represents their businesses before the tax and arbitral tribunals and superior courts on Nigerian law issues arising from their corporate and commercial transactions.

It was a Solar System which carries all the basics in the home, ensures steady power supply and a reduction of the power cost to less than half.

Other beneficiaries from whom the efficiency of delivery can be verified include Amb. Gen. Tukur Buratai (COAS Rtd), Hon. Justice Oguntade (Justice of the Supreme Court Rtd), Sir James Ononiwu of NBA Ikeja, Chief Ejiofor Onwuaso of Otu Oka-iwu Abuja, Hon. Sir Ebuka Igwe of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Sir Ebun Olu Adegboruwa SAN, Mrs. Amina Agbaje Esq (FIDA Nigeria CVP), Prof. Dr. Olusola Oke (UNILAG COLLEGE OF MEDICINE), Dr. Muiz Banire SAN, High Chief Emeka J-P Obegolu SAN, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN; Chief J-K Gadzama SAN; Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN; Prince Adetosoye Adebiyi Esq; Mr. Paul Daudu Esq of J.B Daudu SAN & Co; Mr. Benedict Daudu Esq; Chief Peter Ilegogie Esq; Aare Muyiwa Akinboro SAN, Aare Isiaka Olagunju SAN, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade SAN of SPA Ajibade SAN & Co; FIDA Nigeria (FIDA House Abuja); Prince Adetokumbo Kayode SAN; Dr. Mrs Ayorinde of Ayorinde SAN & Co; Mrs. Mariam Agbaboka; Barr. Mrs Rachel Ebun Akerele; Mr. Anthony Malik SAN; Chief Tawo E. Tawo 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; Mr. Chike Ekeocha, Esq. of Alex Izinyon SAN & Co/SUEX Nig. Ltd; Mummy Sylvia Okoregbe Esq; John Ochogwu, Esq; Hon. Rodrich Ugwu Esq; Prof. Godson Ogbonna of Abia State University, Uturu; Sir Austin Mwana Esq; Mr. Thony Lyiod Onyemaizu Esq; Dr. Agada Elachi Esq; Mr. Zach Akubo of S. I. Ameh SAN & Co; Mr. Ime Edem-nse Esq; Mr. Edafe Mrakpor Esq; Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; Ebedebiri Cottage Hospital, Sagbama LGA, 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, Wukari, Taraba State; Alhaji Abdulrahman Adamu of the Trademoore Estate, among many others.

Some of the distinguishing benefits of Solar/Inverters include:
*Solar is cheaper at long-run!

*24 hours Power Supply for homes/offices

* Your current Power cost will drop by at least 50% after we install.

*No noise!

*No Pollution!

*Automatic change over!

*No fueling

*25 years warranty on the German Cells Solar panels.

To view the November price list, click here

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Retired Justice Muhammad Dattijo’s official quarters at the Supreme Court were burgled during the Christmas holidays in December 2023. The quarters for Supreme Court justices are in Maitama in Abuja.

Sources privy to the incident said that the home was stripped bare as the burglars “took everything from the house”. “The burglary took place at the quarters for Supreme Court justices in Maitama. It occurred over the Christmas holidays and Dattijo was travelling out of the country at the time,” one of the sources told SaharaReporters.

Dattijo, who retired from the Supreme Court on October 27, 2023, knocked his colleagues on his way out. He described the apex court as rotten and characterised by filth.

He lamented that the apex court had been pervaded by bribery and perversion of justice, adding that it was dangerous for two out of the six geopolitical zones of the country to be excluded from the bench of the Supreme Court hearing appeals on the presidential election.

Lamenting that the appointments of judicial officers have been political, selfish and sectional interests, he said, “It is asserted that the process of appointment to judicial positions is deliberately conducted to give undue advantage to the children, spouses and mistresses of serving and retired judges and managers of judicial offices.

“At the Court of Appeal, it is asserted, presiding justices are now being appointed out of turn. And there is the further issue of the unpredictable nature of recent decisions of the courts as well.

“A number of respected senior members of the bar inter alia, citing Ahmed Lawan, the former President of the Senate and Imo governorship appeals, claim that decisions of even the apex court have become unpredictable.

“It is difficult to understand how and where, by these decisions, the judicial pendulum swings. It was not so before, they contended.

“In some quarters, the view is strongly held that filth and intrigues characterise the institution these days. Judges are said to be comfortable in companies they never would have kept in the past. It is being insinuated that some judicial officers even campaign for politicians. It cannot be more damnifying.”

According to him, some years ago, “appointment to the bench was strictly on merit. Sound knowledge of the law, integrity, honour and hard work distinguished those who were elevated”.

He continued, “Lobbying was unheard of. I never lobbied, not at any stage of my career, to secure any appointment or elevation. As much as possible, the most qualified men and women were appointed. That can no longer be said about appointments to the bench.

“The judiciary must be uniquely above board. Appointments should not be polluted by political, selfish and sectional interests. The place of merit, it must be urged, cannot be overemphasised.

“Public perceptions of the judiciary have over the years become witheringly scornful and monstrously critical,” he lamented and called for urgent reform in the judiciary to correct the alleged anomalies.”

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Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau, fiery human rights activist Mr. Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, and justice reform advocate Mr. Emeka Nwadioke have been listed among Nigeria’s top 100 legal personalities.

THE SUN newspaper reports that the honorees were named among the “Top 100 exceptional and outstanding Nigerian legal personalities with significant contributions to legal education and practice.”

Other honorees include former Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem, SAN; Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) prosecutor, Dr. Wahab Shittu, SAN; former NBA General Secretary, Mr. Emeka Obegolu, SAN; leading chartered arbitrator, Mrs. Dorothy Ufot SAN, and acclaimed tax expert and University of Lagos (UNILAG) teacher, Prof. Abiola Sanni, SAN.

Also listed among the Top 100 Legal Personalities are Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN; Mrs. Folashade Alli, SAN; Mr. Adeyinka Kotoye, SAN; Prof Ukooh Ikoni (Benue State University); Prof. Mojeeb Alabi (Osun State University); Prof. Omoniyi Akinola (Redeemer’s University), and Prof. Nimah Abdulraheem (University of Ilorin).

Unveiling the honorees at the weekend, the organisers, Legal Eagles Initiatives and LMT Academy, stated that the awards are “based on proven track record of excellence and performance.”

The organisers noted that the awards were aimed at “celebrating hard work and rewarding consistency,” adding that “This Award is a product of our organisational commitment to rewarding hard work and promoting excellence. It seeks to honour personalities and institutions who have distinguished themselves and have made measurable impact within and outside the legal profession under the year in review.

“Since the maiden edition which was held in 2021, the LIFIN Excellence Awards has earned the reputation of being one of the most prestigious Award within the legal industry and beyond. Here’s an opportunity to recognise and celebrate distinguished personalities whose immeasurable achievements inspire hope.”

Voting for the awards commenced on December 26, 2023 and ended on December 29, 2023 while the honorees were announced the next day.

• Culled from THE SUN Newspaper

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An Enugu-based lawyer and rights activist, Ikechukwu Maximus Ugwuoke has sued the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) over alleged defamation of character by the association.

The suit numbered E/1109 2023, which is currently pending at Enugu State High Court, has seven Defendants listed including the Incorporated Trustees of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Uche Rowland Ojinmah, President of Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) against himself and representing NMA, as defendants.

Others joined in the suit are “Dr. Osahon Enabulele, Chairman, NMA Disciplinary Committee, against himself and representing the members of NMA Disciplinary Committee; Dr. Paschal Chime (Purported Coordinator NMA Enugu West Zone); Dr. Uzoma Ossai (Purported Secretary, NMA Enugu West Zone); 6th Defendant, Dr. Sunday Okafor, Secretary, NMA, Enugu State and Dr. Celestine Ugwuoke, Chairman, NMA, Enugu State, representing the Executive Members of NMA Enugu State.”

The writ of summons shows that the suit was filed on December 20, 2023.

Meanwhile, the lawyer as the sole Plaintiff, sought among other reliefs: “A DECLARATION that the Plaintiff being a legal practitioner in Nigeria has a duty to accept briefs and instructions from his clients and to carry out the instructions in a professional manner without let, blackmail, castigation, intimidation, hindrance, victimization, vituperation, or hindrance in any form by the Defendants or any person whosever.

“A DECLARATION that the Plaintiff was duly briefed and mobilized by his client Dr Victor Nnaemeka Nnamchi, a medical practitioner in Nigeria to commence a suit against Care Taker Committee of NMA Enugu West Zone and the purported excos that emerged in a kangaroo election conducted by the committee for the zone, which suit the plaintiff duly prepared and filed with his client’s name Dr Victor Nnaemeka N as suit No HAGB/26/2022 at Enugu State High Court Agbani Judicial Division, in the exercise of his professional duty as a Legal Practitioner in Nigeria.

“A DECLARATION that identity of the plaintiff’s client Dr Victor Nnaemeka N has never been in doubt nor raised as an issue before the Agbani High Court where the said suit HAGB/26/2022 was filed nor questioned before the Plaintiff as his counsel by any of the Defendants in the said suit or any of the Defendants in this suit as not being one and same person as Dr Victor Nnaemeka Nnamchi.

“A DECLARATION that the write-up and publication made by the 4th and 5th Defendants on or about 4th November 2023 tagged ‘ATTENTION NMA ENUGU WEST ZONE’ inferring that the Plaintiff was engaged by Dr Chibuzo Ndiokwelu and co, to fraudulently file a suit Suit No HAGB/26/2022 using an unknown and a nonexistent name Dr Victor Nnaemeka N and that Dr Chibuzo Ndiokwelu along with his gang funded the suit directly from NMA Enugu West account with a total of N250,000.000 paid to the Plaintiff on same day November 24th that the suit was filed and served, was false damages the reputation of the Plaintiff and therefore defamatory.

“A DECLARATION that the findings made by the 3rd Defendant to the NEC meeting of the 1st Defendant held from 10th November 2023 to 17th November 2023, presided by the 2nd Defendant wherein the 3rd Defendant stated that the name Dr Nnaemeka Victor N which was used to drag NMA before Enugu State High Court is a pseudo name which led to the 3rd Defendant’s recommendation adopted by the 1st Defendant that ‘all lawyers involved in this case’ (obviously referring to the plaintiff) should be reported to Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) and the Nigerian Legal Counsel, for professional investigation and discipline, impinges on the image and reputation of the plaintiff and therefore defamatory against the Person of the Plaintiff.

“AN ORDER of the Honorable Court compelling the Defendants jointly or severally to pay the Plaintiff the sum of N1,000,000,000.00 (One Billion Naira) as damages in compensation for defamation, mental stress and psychological injuries occasioned to the Plaintiff by Defendant’s defamatory actions in this case.”

Narrating the facts of the case in his Statement of Claim, the Plaintiff stated that as a result of the fame, reputation, integrity and good image he had built over the years, he maintained a long-standing professional relationship amongst different associations of medical practitioners in Nigeria.

“That on 19th November 2022, he was duly briefed and mobilized by Dr Victor Nnaemaka Nnamchi, a medical practitioner in Nigeria to file a suit for him and other persons that elected the excos of his Zonal NMA, the Enugu West Zone against Care Taker Committee of NMA Enugu West Zone and the purported excos that emerged in a kangaroo election conducted by the committee for the zone.

“That in the discharge of his professional duty as a Legal Practitioner in Nigeria he accepted the said brief and issued the client a Schedule of his fees based on his agreement with his Client. That his said Client proceeded to fulfill his own side of the obligation by making 50% cash deposit of the agreed fees which the Plaintiff duly receipted. And the Plaintiff proceeded to file the said suit at Agbani Division of the Enugu State High Court seized with the jurisdiction over the case in Suit No: HAGB/26/2022.

“That the identity of his said client Dr Victor Nnaemeka N. has never been in doubt or being an issue as it was never questioned before the Agbani High Court where the said suit HAGB/26/2022 was filed nor questioned before the Plaintiff as his counsel by any of the Defendants in the said suit and in this suit as being one and same person as Dr Victor Nnaemeka Nnamchi.

“That to his greatest shock his attention was drawn to a write-up and publication made by the 4th and 5th Defendants on or about 4th November 2023 tagged “ATTENTION NMA ENUGU WEST ZONE.”

In the said write-up, the Defendant allegedly inferred and alleged that the Plaintiff was engaged by Dr. Chibuzo Ndiokwelu and Co. to fraudulently file Suit No: HAGB/26/2022 using an unknown and a non-existent name – Dr. Victor Nnaemeka N – and that Dr. Chibuzo Ndiokwelu along with his collaborators funded the suit directly from NMA Enugu West account with a total of N250,000.000 paid to the Plaintiff on the same day, November 24th that the suit was filed and served.

The Plaintiff described the allegation of the Defendants as false, stating that he was never briefed by the said Dr. Chibuzo Ndiokwelu to file the said suit, and was never paid any money in respect of the suit by the said Dr. Chibuzo Ndiokwelu.

“These false allegations of the said Defendants portrayed the Plaintiff as being ‘fraudulent’ without any justification, damages the reputation of the Plaintiff and is therefore defamatory,” it said.

Meanwhile, the Plaintiff, in a statement on Sunday, revealed that in a related suit he was handling for some doctors that were earmarked for witch-hunt by the Association through its Disciplinary Committee, despite securing a valid court order and serving the same to the Defendants that directed all parties to maintain status quo pending the determination of a motion on notice, the order was violated.

According to him, Dr. Uche Ojinma-led NMA President proceeded to entertain the subject matter of the suit and suspended his clients from the Association at its last NEC meeting held from December 10 – 17, 2023.

“There is no better demonstration of brazen lawlessness and lack of respect to the Rule of Law than this,” the lawyer said.

He revealed that he had initiated contempt proceedings against the President of the Association and all those involved in the alleged violation of the Court Order, asserting that nobody is above the law.

He said that one day, the current leadership of NMA shall have their day in Court to account for their actions.

Meanwhile, SaharaReporters states that no date has been fixed for both cases.

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DR. JUDE EZEGWUI SENDS HIS NEW YEAR WARM WISHES

As the sands of time turn, we greet 2024 with open arms and a steadfast resolve.

My warmest wishes to you, my esteemed seniors and colleagues.

Let us join hands, our efforts echoing as one, to build a society where fairness rings true and justice stands tall.

May perseverance pave the path for each of your endeavours, and accomplishment crown your every stride. Though challenges may loom, let unwavering commitment to justice be our compass, guiding us through the maze of legal complexities. Together, we shall carve a path of legal excellence, forge bonds of brotherhood, and offer unwavering support to one another.

So, step into this new year with hearts full of hope and minds set on triumphs! May growth bloom from our endeavours, and collective success be our shared harvest.

Happy New Year!

~ Dr. Jude Ezegwui ( MCIArb, NP, JP)
Immediate past Chairman NBA Enugu & Council Member, NBA-Section on Business Law

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FEATURED

Solar For All: Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor (Past National President, FIDA Nigeria] is our “Star Client of the week”

For this gorgeous Amazon, a darling of both the NBA and FIDA Nigeria, it is her third bite on the cherry, having been enjoying for years our Solar Energy Solutions in her Abuja Office, Abuja Home and now her Abia State Home.

To get an efficient Solar system anywhere in Nigeria with 25 years warranty and “Pay Small Small”, call/chat Solar For All Ltd: 08060266163.

Visit: SolarForAll.ng
(Abuja) Suite A8, Kenuj O2 Mall ,Behind Games Village.
(Lagos) No 113A, Mainland Way, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi.
(Enugu State) Ehalumona Junction, Nsukka.

The Solar For All South-East/South-South team are grateful to have been hosted at the Arochukwu, Abia State home of the distinguished Okoroafors.

A gender, good governance and sustainable development advocate, Ezinwa is a Nigerian legal practitioner with over 30 years experience. She holds a Master’s degree (1989) in law. She was the International Secretary (previously Regional Vice President for Africa) and National President (Nigeria) of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA),a women lawyers’ association devoted to protecting, promoting and preserving the rights and interests of women and children.

She was an Inaugural Faculty Member of the UNDP co-supported Corruption Risk Assessment Programme Nigeria and Team Lead for Corruption Risk Assessment exercise in an Agency within the Education Sector in Nigeria; Member, 100-Women Group, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Nigeria; National Chairperson of the Society of Women in Taxation of Nigeria, and a Delegate to the Nigeria National Conference 2014, a conference organised by the Nigerian government across multiple sectors and interest groups to deliberate on and make recommendations for Nigeria’s political, social, and economic pathways. She has participated in and coordinated workshops on gender and corruption at the IACC.

It was a Solar System installation which carries all the basics in the home, ensures steady Power Supply and a reduction of the power cost to less than half.

Other beneficiaries from whom the efficiency of delivery can be verified include Amb. Gen. Tukur Buratai (COAS Rtd), Hon. Justice Oguntade (Justice of the Supreme Court Rtd), Sir James Ononiwu of NBA Ikeja, Chief Ejiofor Onwuaso of Otu Oka-iwu Abuja, Hon. Sir Ebuka Igwe of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Sir Ebun Olu Adegboruwa SAN, Mrs. Amina Agbaje Esq (FIDA Nigeria CVP), Prof. Dr. Olusola Oke (UNILAG COLLEGE OF MEDICINE), Dr. Muiz Banire SAN, High Chief Emeka J-P Obegolu SAN, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN; Chief J-K Gadzama SAN; Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN; Prince Adetosoye Adebiyi Esq; Mr. Paul Daudu Esq of J.B Daudu SAN & Co; Mr. Benedict Daudu Esq; Chief Peter Ilegogie Esq; Aare Muyiwa Akinboro SAN, Aare Isiaka Olagunju SAN, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade SAN of SPA Ajibade SAN & Co; FIDA Nigeria (FIDA House Abuja); Prince Adetokumbo Kayode SAN; Dr. Mrs Ayorinde of Ayorinde SAN & Co; Mrs. Mariam Agbaboka; Barr. Mrs Rachel Ebun Akerele; Mr. Anthony Malik SAN; Chief Tawo E. Tawo 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; Mr. Chike Ekeocha, Esq. of Alex Izinyon SAN & Co/SUEX Nig. Ltd; Mummy Sylvia Okoregbe Esq; John Ochogwu, Esq; Hon. Rodrich Ugwu Esq; Prof. Godson Ogbonna of Abia State University, Uturu; Sir Austin Mwana Esq; Mr. Thony Lyiod Onyemaizu Esq; Dr. Agada Elachi Esq; Mr. Zach Akubo of S. I. Ameh SAN & Co; Mr. Ime Edem-nse Esq; Mr. Edafe Mrakpor Esq; Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; Ebedebiri Cottage Hospital, Sagbama LGA, 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, Wukari, Taraba State; Alhaji Abdulrahman Adamu of the Trademoore Estate, among many others.

Some of the distinguishing benefits of Solar/Inverters include:
*Solar is cheaper at long-run!

*24 hours Power Supply for homes/offices

* Your current Power cost will drop by at least 50% after we install.

*No noise!

*No Pollution!

*Automatic change over!

*No fueling

*25 years warranty on the German Cells Solar panels.

To view the November price list, click here

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Former Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Supo Shasore is now a free man, as the last of the troika of court cases levied against him by Federal Government agencies was today struck out by Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos.

CITY LAWYER gathered that this followed an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Prosecutor Bala Sanga.

With the matter struck out, the defence team led by Wale Akoni, SAN and Chijioke Okoli, SAN applied for the release of Shasore’s international passport. The application was granted by the court.

CITY LAWYER recalls that two charges brought against Shasore on similar set of facts had earlier been struck out by Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court sitting at Abuja and Justice Mojisola Dada of the High Court of Lagos State.

Reputed for his candour, Shasore was recently exonerated of complicity by Justice Robin Knowles of the Commercial Courts of England and Wales in the shenanigans that bedeviled by controversial Process & Industrial Developments (P&ID) Limited contract. The judgment was delivered in favour of the Federal Government after five years of legal frameworks which saw the court quash the $11 billion arbitration award in favour of P&ID.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned Shasore last October before Justice Aneke over alleged money laundering to the tune of $200,000.

Shasore was arraigned on a four-count charge before Justice Aneke with a four-count charge marked FHC/L/447C/2022.

At the resumed hearing, the anti-graft agency counsel, led by Sanga, prayed the court to accept the information filed against the defendant and asked the defendant to take his plea.

Shashore, however, denied the allegation and pleaded not guilty to all the charges. His defence team, led by four Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), Yemi Candide-Johnson prayed the court to grant the defendant bail on liberal terms and on self-recognisance, saying that Shasore is not a flight risk and that the alleged offences are available. The prosecution counsel, Bala Sanga, did not oppose the request, saying that the prosecution was only interested in the merit of the case.

In his ruling, Justice Aneke admitted Shasore to bail in the sum of N50 million with two sureties in like sum. The judge also directed that one of the sureties must be a permanent secretary or director in Lagos State civil service. He had then adjourned the case till November 24, 2022, for the commencement of the trial.

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The National Judicial Council (NJC) is set to investigate the issues surrounding the certified true copy (CTC) of the Kano State governorship election appeal at the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

Officials of the NJC disclosed this during a visit to the headquarters of the Media Trust Ltd in Abuja.

There has been confusion and widespread condemnation of the CTC of the judgment of the Friday, November 17 judgment of the appellate court which sacked Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in favour of the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s Yusuf Gawuna on the ground of not being a member of the party.

However, the Chief Registrar of the Court of Appeal, Umar Mohammed Bangari, in a statement on Wednesday, November 17 admitted clerical errors in the document, while insisting that the court’s judgment remains valid.

But speaking with Daily Trust, an unnamed leader of the NJC delegation disclosed that petitions have been received, adding that the council will treat them according to the rules.

“The petitions that have been written would not be taken immediately, they would have to go through the preliminary complaint assessment, those people would look at it, then send to the plenary, then plenary would look at it and they would set up a committee to look into and the judge and the petitioner would come with their lawyers,” he said

The senior official said although counsel to Governor Yusuf had opted to make the CTC part of the subject of the appeal before the Supreme Court, that would not prevent the NJC’s investigation.

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Solar For All: The Nigerian Bar Association, Abuja Branch (UNITY BAR), ably led by the pragmatic, innovative and cerebral Mr. Afam Okeke, is our “Star Client of the week”.

The Nigerian Bar Association Abuja Branch [Unity Bar] stands out tall as a Bar of giants; making great impacts and grooming some of the best Legal minds in the Legal profession.

To get an efficient Solar system anywhere in Nigeria with 25 years warranty and “Pay Small Small,” call/chat Solar For All Ltd: 08060266163.

Visit: SolarForAll.ng
(Abuja) Suite A8, Kenuj O2 Mall ,Behind Games Village.
(Lagos) No 113A, Mainland Way, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi.
(Enugu State) Ehalumona Junction, Nsukka.

The Solar For All Abuja/Northern team are grateful to have been hosted by one of the most outstanding Bar of Northern Nigeria at the Wuse 2 office of the NBA Abuja Unity Bar.

Being the Mother-Branch of all other Branches of the NBA in Abuja, the NBA Abuja Unity Bar has remained the standard bearer of what the Bar should be.

It was the installation of the 4 batteries, 9 Panels Solar System which caters to all the basics in the office, ensures steady Power Supply and a reduction of the power cost to less than half.

Other beneficiaries from whom the efficiency of delivery can be verified include Amb. Gen. Tukur Buratai (COAS Rtd), Hon. Justice Oguntade (Justice of the Supreme Court Rtd), Sir James Ononiwu of NBA Ikeja, Chief Ejiofor Onwuaso of Otu Oka-iwu Abuja, Hon. Sir Ebuka Igwe of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Sir Ebun Olu Adegboruwa SAN, Mrs. Amina Agbaje Esq (FIDA Nigeria CVP), Prof. Dr. Olusola Oke (UNILAG COLLEGE OF MEDICINE), Dr. Muiz Banire SAN, High Chief Emeka J-P Obegolu SAN, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN; Chief J-K Gadzama SAN; Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN; Prince Adetosoye Adebiyi Esq; Mr. Paul Daudu Esq of J.B Daudu SAN & Co; Mr. Benedict Daudu Esq; Chief Peter Ilegogie Esq; Aare Muyiwa Akinboro SAN, Aare Isiaka Olagunju SAN, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade SAN of SPA Ajibade SAN & Co; FIDA Nigeria (FIDA House Abuja); Prince Adetokumbo Kayode SAN; Dr. Mrs Ayorinde of Ayorinde SAN & Co; Mrs. Mariam Agbaboka; Barr. Mrs Rachel Ebun Akerele; Mr. Anthony Malik SAN; Chief Tawo E. Tawo 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; Mr. Chike Ekeocha, Esq. of Alex Izinyon SAN & Co/SUEX Nig. Ltd; Mummy Sylvia Okoregbe Esq; John Ochogwu, Esq; Hon. Rodrich Ugwu Esq; Prof. Godson Ogbonna of Abia State University, Uturu; Sir Austin Mwana Esq; Mr. Thony Lyiod Onyemaizu Esq; Dr. Agada Elachi Esq; Mr. Zach Akubo of S. I. Ameh SAN & Co; Mr. Ime Edem-nse Esq; Mr. Edafe Mrakpor Esq; Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; Ebedebiri Cottage Hospital, Sagbama LGA, 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, Wukari, Taraba State; Alhaji Abdulrahman Adamu of the Trademoore Estate, among many others.

Some of the distinguishing benefits of Solar/Inverters include:
*Solar is cheaper at long-run!

*24 hours Power Supply for homes/offices

* Your current Power cost will drop by at least 50% after we install.

*No noise!

*No Pollution!

*Automatic change over!

*No fueling

*25 years warranty on the German Cells Solar panels.

To view the November price list, click here

To join our Telegram platform, click here 

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 “X” (TWITTER) at https://twitter.com/CityLawyerMag. To ADVERTISE in CITY LAWYER or for Special Features, please email citylawyermag@gmail.com or call 08138380083.

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NOTICE OF MONTHLY MEETING

EGBE AMOFIN O’ODUA GENERAL MEETING FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER, 2023.

1) ARRIVAL OF MEMBERS/COCKTAIL/ASUN NIGHT: 8TH DECEMBER,2023.

2) EGBE AMOFIN OODUA MEETING/DEPARTURE: 9TH DECEMBER, 2023.

VENUE: AARE AFE BABALOLA NBA AKURE BAR CENTRE, OKE-EDA, AKURE.

AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Opening Praying
3. President’s Remarks
4. Reading/Adoption of Minutes of last meeting.
5. Matters Arising
6. Report on Exco Activities.
7. Any Other Business (A.O.B)
8. Adjournment.
9. Closing Prayer

Adetunji OSO, Esq.
General Secretary,
EGBE AMOFIN O’ODUA

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The Presiding Judge, Lagos Judicial Division of the National Industrial Court, Hon Justice Maureen Esowe has awarded the sum of N5,000,000.00 (Five Million Naira only) as damages against Abraka Company Ltd for negligence and failure to forward Mr. Felix Esuturie’s necessary paperwork to the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund to aid in the processing of his claim for compensation in line with the Employee’s Compensation Act, 2010.

The Court also ordered Abraka Company Ltd to pay Felix Esuturie the sum of N1,000,000.00 (One Million Naira only) as general damages for financial hardship and socio-economic discomfort suffered, with the sum of N500,000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira) Cost of action.

Justice Esowe held that the Court is satisfied with the evidence before it that Felix lost his entitlement to statutory compensation for the disability he suffered following an accident in the course of his employment owing to the firm’s conduct.

From facts, the Claimant- Felix Esuturie had submitted that sometime on 20th October 2015, while in the course of his employment, he suffered a fracture on his right ankle following an industrial accident at his workplace which left him with permanent injury.

He contended that the firm initially paid for treatment of the injury sustained but failed to forward and submit to the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) the required paperwork to give room for the assessment and processing of his compensation for the injury sustained at work under the Employee’s Compensation Act, 2010.

However, the defendant- Abraka Company Ltd failed to file any defence despite receiving the court’s processes and hearing notices.

Delivering the judgment, the presiding Judge, Justice Maureen Esowe held that when a party fails or neglects to utilize the opportunity afforded it by the Court to put up its case, such party cannot later be heard to complain of denial of fair hearing.

The Court held that the evidence of the accident that led to Felix Esuturie sustaining a fracture to his leg is unchallenged and the legal standard of care was for the firm to have furnished the NSITF Board with the required documentation to look into and process the victim compensation claims.

Justice Esowe held that the Court is satisfied with the evidence before it that Felix Esuturie lost his entitlement to statutory compensation for the disability he suffered following an accident in the course of his employment with the Defendant owing to the company’s conduct.

The Court held that company’s lack of diligence in pursuing Felix Esuturie’s statutory compensation claim with the NSITF Board can not be justified by the alleged reason it gave for the delay in forwarding to the Board outstanding documents.

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