The Chairman of the 2023 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Conference Planning Committee, Mazi Afam Osigwe has commended the Muslim Lawyers Association (MULAN) and National Association of Law Teachers (NALT) on their 2023 Annual Conference.
In separate statements made available to CITY LAWYER, the former NBA General Secretary noted that the events would provide opportunities for fruitful deliberations and enriching activities for members of the associations.
Below are the full texts of the statements.
MAZI AFAM OSIGWE, SAN, FELICITATES THE MUSLIM LAWYERS ASSOCIATION ON THE OCCASION OF THE 14TH GENERAL CONFERENCE
I heartily felicitate the President and members of the Association on the occasion of its 14th General Conference taking place in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
The theme of this year’s Conference for this year’s conference, “RELIGION, POWER AND POLITICS: THE NEED FOR A UNIFIED POLITY”, could not have been chosen at a better time. I have no doubt the Association will make the best use of time and other resources to ensure that the Conference offers it members and guests an opportunity to rub minds on the imperativeness of how to achieved a unified polity in Nigeria.
Aside from the rich opportunities for fruitful deliberations and camaraderie, it will be a greater opportunity to unwind in the beautiful and luxuriating atmosphere which richly abound in Lafia. The program will also give legal practitioners an opportunity to re-dedicate ourselves to play a crucial role in promoting unity, rule of law and the ideals of the legal profession.
May Almighty Allah (SWT) continue to guide and strengthen you as you continually work towards the achievement and sustenance of MULAN’s vision and objectives.
Please, accept the assurances of my highest esteem.
MAZI AFAM OSIGWE, SAN, FELICITATES THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LAW TEACHERS ON THE OCCASION OF THE 54TH CONFERENCE
I heartily congratulate President and members of the National Association of Law Teachers on the occasion of its 54th Annual Conference, holding at Umuahia, Abia State!
Law teachers have long been the bedrock of the Legal Profession, playing a pivotal role in shaping aspiring lawyers through their invaluable guidance and knowledge. Your unwavering dedication to instilling wisdom, discipline, and a culture of excellence in aspiring lawyers and every legal professional who has walked the path of learning in Nigeria is immeasurable.
As you gather to engage in fruitful deliberations and partake in the enriching activities lined up for this year’s conference, I extend my sincerest wishes for a truly successful event. May your discussions be insightful, your collaborations be fruitful, and your contributions further elevate the legal education landscape.
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Some leading jurists from the Bar and Bench have confirmed attendance at the eagerly awaited Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice Annual Conference which is billed to hold in Abuja.
The Annual Conference will hold at NBA House from July 13 to July 19, 2023 with the theme, “Legal Practice Without Borders.”
According to a programme made available to CITY LAWYER, the confirmed speakers include former NBA President, Mr. Joseph Daudu SAN; his counterpart, Mr. Augustine Alegeh SAN; renowned chartered arbitrator, Mrs. Funke Adekoya SAN; former President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, Boma Alabi SAN; Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole SAN, and Chief Ferdinand Orbih SAN among others.
The topics to be dissected at the Annual Conference include Transformation of legal practice in Nigeria, the Showcase Session with Alegeh as Chairman as well as Organ donation and transplantation under Nigerian law, which has former NBA-SLP Chairman, Mr. Oluseun Abimbola as Chairman.
Other topics are Legal practice, domestic violence and child abuse matters: a jurisdictional comparison; Law practice in the digital age: Balancing professional responsibility and technological innovation; Exploring the frontiers of dispute resolution in the Nigerian capital market: Investments & Securities Tribunal in focus; Tyranny and dictatorship of election petition: Where is justice? Bullet points on the innovations of the new Arbitration and Mediation Act 2023: Things To Note; Cross border crime prosecution/defence & the concept of International Anti-Corruption Court; CHATGPT and its potential impacts on law practice; Business Facilitation Act; The new Electricity Act, what a lawyer should know, as well as Discrimination against persons with Disabilities Act.
The Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee (CPC), Mr. Paul Harris Ogbole SAN, urged prospective delegates to register for the Annual Conference, adding that “We are thrilled to be able to bring together legal professionals from across the country to discuss the challenges, opportunities, and trends in the legal landscape.”
To register for the Annual Conference, click here.
The African Arbitration Association (AfAA) will on October 12 to 14, 2023 hold its 4th AfAA Annual Conference in Cape Town, South Africa.
The AfAA Annual Conference is increasingly gaining traction as a must-attend event in Africa’s arbitration calendar. The theme of this year’s Annual Conference is “International Arbitration in Africa: Transitions and New Perspectives” while the venue is the vintage Southern Sun Cape Sun Hotel, Cape Town, South Africa.
The multi-lingual Annual Conference will be heralded by the Annual General Meeting on October 12, 2023. This will be followed immediately by the Opening Ceremony and Cocktail Reception.
Among the technical sessions are An introspective into African arbitration: where do we stand today and what may be the transitions and new perspectives of tomorrow? New forms of dispute resolution in Africa: where do we go from here? Our evolution into new categories of disputes arising from future industries: are African practitioners ready? Creating African arbitral institutions of the future: best practices; The implementation of AfCFTA and ISDS; Effective Enforcement of Arbitral Awards in Africa: Achievements and Challenges; Diversity and inclusion: from the ground-up, and The users’ perspectives: what do corporations, States and their counsel expect?
Curtains will be drawn on the Annual Conference with Awards Ceremony and a closing Dinner to be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023.
Aside from the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) which is the Diamond Sponsor, other Supporting Associations are the International Centre for Arbitration and Mediation Abuja (ICAMA), The Cairo Regional Centre for International Commercial Arbitration (CRCICA), the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Nigeria Branch), Nairobi Centre for International Arbitration, Kigali international Arbitration Centre (KIAC) and the Lagos Court of Arbitration among others.
The deadline for early bird registration is 14th July, 2023. To take advantage of the Early Bird rates as well as discounted accommodation rates, click on the link to register https://afaa.ngo/page-18570.
For travel assistance, contact SPRINTS Travels Limited via telephone (Bridget Anthony on 08143109158) or email at sprintstravels@yahoo.com or visit the website at www.sprintstravels.com.
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The Nigerian Law Society (NLS) has announced plans to hold its inaugural Annual General Conference (AGC) on Friday, July 28, 2023.
A notice made available to CITY LAWYER stated that the conference would be held virtually, while prospective attendees are expected to pre-register for the event.
Below is the full text of the notice.
The Nigerian Law Society (NLS) cordially invites all Lawyers to it’s 1st Virtual Annual General Conference
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Former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Prof. Chidi Odinkalu has warned that unless urgent steps are taken to redress certain anomalies, the next Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Elections in 2024 may be compromised.
In a resignation letter from the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA) made available to CITY LAWYER, the fiery human rights activist also decried the prolonged indebtedness to the service provider for the 2022 Elections, saying this has created challenges for ECNBA’s ability to deliver credible elections next year.
According to Odinkalu, “For reasons that I outline below, I have come to the plain conclusion that this aspiration for a credible election in the next cycle of elections in our Association in 2024 now faces a clear and present risk of foreseeable frustration. In the light of this painful conclusion, I have reconsidered my membership of the ECNBA and hereby tender my resignation from the Committee with effect from 10 July, 2023.”
He noted that while N18 million was contracted by the ECNBA for the 2022 voting service provider, “One year after the elections took place, we still owe the provider N5.4 million, representing 30% of the agreed sum.”
Apparently miffed by the manner in which his colleague was allegedly shot down by NBA President, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN when the matter was raised at the NBA National Executive Council meeting, Odinkalu observed that “rather than address it (debt) in the spirit in which it was raised, you shut it down, complaining that you regretted giving my colleague(s) the floor. That was hardly a vote of confidence on the Committee.”
Odinkalu revealed that yet another July 2022 contract by NBA to a company to clean up its database has also run into hot water due to indebtedness, adding that “It is my understanding that relations with this contractor may now have broken down irretrievably, that the portal has been deactivated and that the data collected from this portal are not accessible to the NBA because, being indebted to the contractor, it has been denied access to the encryption keys which the contractor can only release after the debts owed to it have been reconciled and cleared.”
Noting that there are concerns that the 2024 Elections may face a charge of compromise unless steps are taken to redress the issues, the respected good governance advocate stated that “I must make clear that I do not wish to be mis-interpreted as saying that these developments are compatible with a design to compromise the 2024 election in our Association. Absent urgent course correction, however, that outcome is foreseeable.”
According to him, “I continue to believe that the credibility of elections in the NBA must be sacrosanct. This is the spirit and service compact that persuaded me to agree to serve on this ECNBA. In the light of all the facts at my disposal, however, my only option, Mr. President, is reconsider my position. This is a matter of conscience. I have come to the reluctant conclusion that I can best advance these goals outside the ECNBA and I hereby resign.”
Odinkalu was appointed into the 5-member ECNBA by former NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata to conduct the 2022 NBA Elections which ushered in the Maikyau Administration.
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Foremost Bar Leader, Chief Emeka Ngige SAN has continued to receive accolades for his reformist agenda both at the Nigerian Law School and as a member of the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee (LPPC) as he turns 62 years today.
CITY LAWYER recalls that Ngige, until recently the Chairman of the Council of Legal Education (CLE), has orchestrated an unprecedented renovation of the decayed infrastructure at the Nigerian Law School through an innovative collaboration with public and private sector stakeholders.
As a two-term member of the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee since 2020, the highly respected Bar Leader is reputed to have contributed significantly in the reform of the procedures for award of the coveted rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). This has led to the enactment of new conferment rules aimed to ensure that the award is increasingly meritorious.
It is recalled that Ngige had, as CLE Chairman, launched an ambitious Nigerian Law School Support Initiative (NLSI) which has attracted many projects to the school through governments and individual stakeholders.
Aside from major renovation work by the Lagos State Government among other stakeholders, Ngige was able to attract the state-of-the-art Dr. Nabo Graham-Douglas SAN Campus in Port Harcourt, donated to the Nigerian Law School by the Governor Nyesom Wike-led administration.
These milestones did not go unnoticed by former President Muhammadu Buhari who showered encomiums on Ngige at his 60th birthday anniversary in 2021 and subsequently conferred the National Honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) on him. A statement by his Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, read: “The President notes, with commendation, contributions of the legal luminary to the study and practice of law in Nigeria, donating books and materials to Law Schools, and serving on National Executive of NBA for more than 25 years, during which he represented the association as a member of the Body of Benchers.
“President Buhari affirms that Chief Ngige played a significant role in ensuring fairness and justice for the state and citizens by accepting to join the team of private legal professionals that prosecuted cases at the Failed Banks Tribunal, and other significant cases for the Federal Government, largely related to recovery of public funds and property.
Then Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad also hailed Ngige, a Bencher and Assistant Secretary of the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN), as a “legal icon and quintessential philanthropist,” adding that he is a “man of honour and dignity” whose lifestyle “has been a formidable fountain of inspiration to people from all walks of life.
“A life of scholarship. A life of commitment to the development of his fatherland. A life of service to humanity. A life of absolute submission to the dictates of the almighty God and his conscience.”
Following his short-lived re-appointment as Chairman of the Council of Legal Education, BOSAN had stated that “your re-appointment is a testament to your commitment to excellent service and immense contribution to the development of the Legal Education in Nigeria,” adding that “We note with admiration your exceptional philanthropic gestures which has manifested in the development of the Nigerian Law School, thereby impacting positively and realistically on the standard of Legal Education in Nigeria and ultimately the standard of Legal Practice nationally and internationally.”
Aside from clearing of backlog of over 10,000 students and resolving the longstanding logjam on admission of National Open University (NOUN) law graduates to the Nigerian Law School, Ngige, with support from the management of the Nigerian Law School, also spearheaded a revision of the school’s curriculum and adoption of interactive teaching methods. He equally instituted administrative reforms and established a Quality Assurance Unit to ensure uniform delivery of academic programmes and facilities across all the campuses. The Council also supervised six final Bar examinations.
Apart from sundry projects delivered by the Federal Government through the supervising Federal Ministry of Justice, the Rivers State government constructed two hostels and a multi-purpose hall at the Yenagoa campus of the school
In conjunction with the school administration, the Council built two medical centres at Abuja and Enugu campuses, commissioned a Moot Court, built by the Nigerian Law School Class of 1986 and several staff quarters were rehabilitated by the Enugu State government, besides installation of CCTV cameras in examination halls at Abuja headquarters and commencement of digitisation of files and documents to enhance speedy issuance of transcripts.
The Council also approved accreditation reports for law programmes in 37 universities, reviewed upwards grading system for Bar finals, overhauled its corporate governance regime, enforced disciplinary provisions in the Legal Education (Consolidation Etc) Act, and equally reviewed the Code of Conduct for students.
Ngige is a member of the Body of Benchers, a body of legal practitioners with the highest distinction. He was a Non-Executive Director at Air Peace Limited, one of Africa’s leading airlines.
Ngige has been a representative of NBA at the Body of Benchers (BoB). He was elected Publicity Secretary (1995-1996) and Secretary (1996-1998) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch. From1991 to 2016, he served as a co-opted member of the NBA National Executive Committee (NEC). He was in 1990 appointed a Notary Public by then Chief Justice of Nigeria, Mohammed Bello. Ngige has been conferred by the Rivers State Government with its highest honour of Distinguished Star of Rivers State ( DSSRS) award. He holds the chieftaincy title of Ikemba N’Alor.
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Former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) General Secretary, Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN has emphasized the need for an independent and virile judiciary in the country.
Osigwe, who was the Keynote Speaker at the 2023 Gabriel Adikwu & Co. Annual Lecture in Yola, said that this has become urgent in view of the experiences garnered over Nigeria’s general elections since 1999.
Speaking on the topic, “Lawyers and the law in a democratic dispensation: Nigeria’s experience from 1999 to 2023 – lessons learned, challenges, and opportunities,” the Bar Leader noted that lawyers play a crucial role in consolidating democratic gains.
Osigwe, who is also the Chairman of the 2023 NBA Annual General Conference Planning Committee, posited that the experience of lawyers and the law since Nigeria’s democratic dispensation from 1999 to 2023 “has been both challenging and enlightening.”
He said that the lessons learned underscore the importance of an independent judiciary and the role of lawyers in advancing human rights, adding that significant challenges such as corruption and limited access to justice persist.
“Despite all these, there are opportunities for lawyers to contribute to positive change through active engagement in the ongoing constitutional reform process and in embracing technological advancements,” he said, adding that “By addressing these challenges and seizing these opportunities, Nigerian lawyers can continue to play a crucial role in fostering a just and democratic society.”
He thanked Mr. Gabriel Adikwu and members of his team for finding him worthy to be the Keynote Speaker “on this very essential topic that provided us an opportunity to discuss issues around the growth and development of Nigeria and the critical role Lawyers play in that regard.”
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It was another moment in the sun especially for the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch, unarguably NBA’s poster-child, as its outgoing Chairman and top corporate lawyer, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna was last week named Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice by Abia State Governor Alex Otti.
This is coming on the heels of yet another rancour-free biennial elections held by the Uwanna-led branch Executive Committee to elect a new leadership for the branch.
CITY LAWYER recalls that Uwanna’s elevation followed his earlier appointment as the Senior Special Assistant on Legal Matters to Governor Otti, having won a popular mandate in the governorship race on the ticket of the emergent Labour Party (LP).
Viewed by many industry watchers as an astute technocrat with deft people skills, Uwanna brought several innovations to the running of the branch, not least his mainstreaming of technology in branch operations and skillful management of the branch monthly meetings.
Otti last week swore in the 16 commissioners who were cleared by the Abia State House of Assembly, leaving out three candidates who are yet to be screened by the lawmakers. His words: “Do not betray the trust of our people who have remained patient and loyal to our course by toeing the same path that brought Abia to the sorry state we met it.” In the clearest pointer that Uwanna is regarded as a ranking commissioner in the cabinet, he was given the privilege to speak on behalf of his fellow commissioners.
He thanked Otti for giving them the opportunity to contribute to the development of the state, and assured that they would not betray the confidence reposed in them.
Uwanna was until his appointment a Partner with Tsedaqah Attorneys. Before joining Tsedaqah Attorneys, he was an Assistant Manager, Tax Advisory and Regulatory Compliance Services with SIAO, a Lagos based consulting firm. He had also practiced Law and Taxation with Serenity Legal Union and Partners, Port Harcourt.
Uwanna received a Bachelor’s degree in Law from Abia State University, Uturu and a Master of Laws degree from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He was admitted to the Nigerian Bar after completing his professional training at the Nigerian Law School. He also possesses a certificate in Entrepreneurial Management from the Pan African University, Lagos.
He is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA), International Bar Association (IBA), Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Chartered Institute of Taxation (CITN), Chartered Institute of Mediators and Conciliators (CIMC), Association of Outsourcing Professionals of Nigeria (AOPN), and Capital Market Solicitors Association (CMSA).
A Notary Public for Nigeria and a member of the elite Ikoyi Club 1938, Uwanna is reputed as a leading expert in dispute resolution and cutting-edge commercial law practice, with emphasis on Company and Commercial Law as well as Taxation.
Other members of the cabinet are Prof. Monica Ironkwe, Agriculture; Kingsley Anosike, Budget and Planning; Prof. Uche Eme Uche, Education; Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, Environment and Urban Renewal; Mike Akpara, Finance; Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo, Health; Prince Okey Kanu, Information and Culture; Chaka Chukwumerije, Lands and Housing, and Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Also sworn in are Prof. Joel Friday Ogbonna, Petroleum and Mineral Resources; Chima Emmanuel Oriaku, Science and Technology; Nwaobilor Ananaba, Sports and Youth Development; Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu, Trade, Commerce & Industry; Ngozi Blessing Felix, Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation; Don Otumchere Oti, Works; Sunny Onwuma, Transport; Ikechukwu Monday, Power and Public Utilities, and Dr. Mathew Ekwuribe, Digital Economy/ SME.
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What is NBA doing? What is CLASFON doing? What is MULAN doing? What is NACL doing? What is FIDA doing? What is AWLA doing? SPIDEL, SBL, SLP, YLF etc what are they all doing?
As we approach the end of another Legal Year, I have nothing encouraging to say nor can I place my finger on any solid progress the Judiciary and the NBA has made in this 2022/2023 Legal Year; save for the proposed increases in salaries and the extension of the retirement age of judges of the superior courts. This leaves the lower courts unattended – a very myopic and unfortunate outcome of the independence of the judiciary movement.
My observations here will however be centered on the awkward relationship between the Bar and the Bench, resulting in the run-down infrastructure of our courts.
When some of my colleagues argue that it is not the responsibility of the Bar to support or even provide for our court’s infrastructure, I quiver in shock because in many instances, individual legal practitioners are known for contributing, supporting and doing the very thing the NBA as an Association refuses to do, acknowledge and understand.
Many do not know that providing support to the judiciary is the number one objective of NBA as stated in the NBA’s constitution; but most NBA leaders don’t care or simply haven’t read the NBA constitution.
Let’s ask some questions here:
Who are the users of the Courts?
Who benefits the most from a good and conducive Court environment?
Does a comfortable Court environment improve justice delivery?
Does a Court with full functionality encourage productivity?
Are Clients willing to pay more for legal services when they see a fully functional court environment?
Whatever our answers are to these questions, one thing is clear: if the Bar and Bench cannot cooperate to ensure that our courts are comfortable for users and managers of the courts, then we have failed the country.
In my opinion, I adjudge that the failure is more on the part of the NBA. I do not come to this conclusion lightly, but considering the high corruption levels in government and the challenges of financial allocations to the judiciary, the NBA should play its constitutional role and bridge the gap instead of paying lip service and complaining about the judiciary.
CASE STUDY: NBA IKORODU BRANCH
A few years ago, NBA Ikorodu Branch procured a generator and fans to support the court’s infrastructure.
Before then, the court’s generator was constantly having fault, putting the judges and magistrates in very uncomfortable situations. This negatively impacted on justice delivery, as many cases had to be adjourned.
NBA Ikorodu Branch through its leaders identified that the combined value of the total financial expense of litigants, the value of the time of lawyers present in court, the value of salaries paid to court staff and judges all combined outweighed any politically correct position that suggested that the Bar wasn’t to interfere or contribute to Court infrastructure. It was a no-brainer to procure a generator and fans to make the working conditions better…And it did. Our Judges and Magistrates worked harder and better because they were comfortable.
Today, unfortunately our NBA Branch in Ikorodu has forgotten what it means to make a difference in their workspace; our judges are the ones paying for the fuel to run the NBA generator. Sometimes they pay for the diesel for the main court generator. Should this be? Some judges and magistrates even purchase their own chairs and other basic electronic facilities like printers, computers etc. This is totally unacceptable.
The NBA will spend Billions of Naira on a 5-day conference but cannot find it necessary to invest in the welfare of its members by supporting our justice infrastructure. I mean can we not see that the welfare of NBA members is tied to an improved court infrastructure?
How can we argue that it is the responsibility of government alone? If this was the case, why do we take government to court to protect people’s rights and other noble causes; afterall we have many government funded human rights institutions, committees and agencies supposedly protecting the rights of citizens. Is it not the right of every citizen to have unfettered access to justice?
I call on NBA National, NLS, NBA Branch leaders, leaders of all religious, professional and gender based lawyer groups to reassess the conditions of the courts and work together with the Judiciary to ensure that citizens get the best out of our justice delivery system.
Enough of spending huge amounts on irrelevant parties, cocktails, retreats and law week programs that make no impact other than stroking the egos of some lawyers and which has become an opportunity to enrich some individuals.
Bayo Akinlade is the Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Law Society
Judges and Magistrates are lawyers like the rest of us. The Bench is merely an appointment structure. If the judiciary is corrupt, weak, underfunded or ineffective then it’s the fault of us lawyers and by extension the fault of NBA and its weak, ineffective leadership!
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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference Planning Committee (AGCPC) has invited qualified lawyers to register for the NBA AGC Sport competition.
In a bid towards inclusiveness, the Committee is also launching an inaugural wheelchair table tennis competition.
Meanwhile, AGCPC has unveiled its Hotel Partners for the eagerly awaited conference. About 20,000 delegates are expected at the flagship NBA annual event, according to AGCPC Chairman, Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN.
In a statement made available to CITY LAWYER and signed by NBA Assistant Publicity Secretary, Mr. Charles Ajiboye, the Committee noted that it had “upon review of proposals” appointed Aishaba Limited and Aura Logistics as official hotel partners for the Annual General Conference.
“The logistics firms have negotiated discounted rates with hotels and apartments in and around the Conference venue.
“Members interested in making hotel reservations are encouraged to engage the services of these official partners.”
AGC SPORTS EVENTS AND COMPETITIONS
Distinguished Colleagues,
The Nigerian Bar Association wishes to invite qualified lawyers to register for the NBA AGC Sport competition. This year also features an inaugural wheelchair table tennis competition.
Eligibility As a condition precedent, all prospective participants are required to register for the AGC.
Timeline Registration starts on the 22nd day of June, 2023 and ends on the 11th day of July 2023.
Registration fee Football Male team: 100,000.00 Female Team: 100, 000.00
Table Tennis Male: 10,000.00 Female: 10,000.00
Wheelchair table tennis: Free
Chess and Scrabble: 5,000
Registration Registration payment should be paid into the account below- Name: NBA-AGC Account Number: 0695176495 Bank: Access Bank
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The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho has assured delegates to the forthcoming Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP) Annual Conference that they would not suffer any disability for attending the conference.
Speaking while receiving a high-level delegation of the NBA-SLP Conference Planning Committee (CPC) led by Chief Paul Harris Ogbole SAN, Justice Tsoho stated that lawyers who register for the conference would be granted adjournment to enable them to fully participate in the annual fiesta.
He lauded the theme of the conference, “Legal practice beyond borders,” adding that it would make lawyers to expand their horizons and refuse to be constrained by their immediate scope of practice or knowledge.
Justice Tsoho thanked the Section for identifying with the court, adding that the Bar and Bench belong to the same constituency even while playing different crucial roles.
He urged lawyers to be more steadfast in protecting the interest of both the privileged and the common man, and decried the practice of lawyers taking up litigation solely for purpose of being awarded the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
Speaking earlier, Ogbole noted that NBA-SLP is the Section that deals with core law practice especially as it concerns litigation and ancillary matters, urging the Chief Judge to grant two free days to enable members of the Bar and Bench to attend the eagerly awaited conference.
He described lawyers as the mouthpiece of the judiciary, stressing the need for improved welfare package for the judiciary in order to boost the growth of legal practice.
Ogbole emphasized the need for lawyers to periodically embark on training through conferences and seminars, saying that the theme of the conference was carefully chosen to cater to the needs of all delegates.
In his remarks, the Alternate Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, Mr. Tonye Krukrubo SAN thanked Justice Tsoho for the warm reception accorded the delegation, adding that it is a strong indication of his commitment to the growth of the legal profession.
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Former General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN has decried the gruesome killing of NBA Gusau Branch Welfare Secretary, Mr. Ahmad Muhammad Abubakar.
Describing the killing by gunmen as “a significant loss to the legal community,” Osigwe, who is also the Chairman of the NBA Annual General Conference Planning Committee, urged the Zamfara State Government and security agencies “to promptly and thoroughly investigate this heinous crime.”
CITY LAWYER recalls that the Chairman of NBA Gusau Branch, Mr. Junaidu Abubakar had, while explaining the circumstances leading to the death of the Welfare Secretary, said: “Ahmed was gruesomely murdered by unknown murderers/killers/assasins at about 0030hrs of today, Wednesday, 5th day of July, 2023, at his residence along Mada Road in Kotorkoshi town, of Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State.”
Below is the full text of Osigwe’s statement.
MAZI AFAM OSIGWE, SAN, CONDEMNS THE KILLING OF THE NBA GUSAU BRANCH WELFARE SECRETARY
The gruesome murder of our dear colleague and Welfare Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association, Gusau Branch, Mr Ahmad Muhammad Abubakar, today at his residence in Kotorkoshi town, Bungudu Local Government Area of Zamfara State, is a tragic event, and I condemn it.
Mr Ahmad was a committed Bar Man, devoting a significant portion of his life to serving our colleagues at the branch level. His untimely demise is a significant loss to the legal community.
I call on the Zamfara State Government and the State’s security agencies to promptly and thoroughly investigate this heinous crime.
It is crucial to ensure that those responsible for this savage act and many others are swiftly identified and brought to justice. Actions like this must have consequences, and offenders must face the full force of the law.
In this time of grief, my heartfelt condolences go out.
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN.
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Justice Raphael Chikwe Agbo, a ranking justice of Nigeria’s Court of Appeal, is dead.
CITY LAWYER gathered that Justice Agbo died last Monday in Calabar. Admitted to the Bar in 1978, he was the second ranking justice of the Court of Appeal.
Appointed a justice of the Court of Appeal in 2005, Justice Agbo was due to retire from the Bench on October 21, 2023 after a chequered career as a judicial officer.
CITY LAWYER recalls that former Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi had recently named the Enugu State Multi-Door Courthouse after the jurist who hails from the state, saying it is “honour well-deserved.”
In perhaps his last major judgment, Agbo had led a Court of Appeal panel which upheld the conviction of Senator Bassey Akpan, the governorship candidate of Young Progressives Party (YPP) in Akwa Ibom State, over money laundering charges. The court also ordered Akpan’s arrest.
The panel, sitting in Calabar, however varied the sentence by granting the appellant an option of fine.
“The court also affirmed that the appellant should restitute the sum of N240 million to the federal government through the EFCC and that the said restitution shall not be a prerequisite for his release from the correctional facility,” an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) statement noted. “The court finally revoked the bail and ordered the arrest of Senator Akpan.”
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The outgoing Chairman of the NBA Lagos Branch, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, and the Chairman-Elect, Mr. Olabisi Makanjuola, have set up a joint transition committee to ensure a smooth transition of the governance structures and administration of the Branch.
According to a statement made available to CITY LAWYER by the Branch Publicity Secretary Elo Adhekpukoli, “The committee is headed by the current Vice Chairlady of the Branch, Mrs. Abiye Tam-George, while the Vice-Chairlady-elect, Mrs. Esther Jimoh will serve as the Alternate Chairlady. The Secretary-elect, Mr. Emuobonuvie Majemite will serve as the Secretary of the transition committee. Other members of the committee include Agba Eimunjeze, the current Legal Adviser of the Branch, Fernandez Marcus-Obiene, Fikayo Ogunrinde, and Justice John. The outgoing Chairman and Chairman-elect will both serve as ex-officio members of the committee.”
The terms of reference of the committee includes:
Knowledge Transfer: Facilitate the transfer of institutional knowledge, including historical information, policies, procedures, and best practices, from the outgoing Executive Committee to the incoming Executive Committee.
Document Review: Conduct a thorough review of relevant documents, such as bylaws, reports, financial records, and meeting minutes, to ensure accurate and up-to-date information is available to the new committee.
Handover of Responsibilities: Coordinate with outgoing committee members to ensure a comprehensive handover of responsibilities, including specific projects, ongoing initiatives, and important contacts or stakeholders.
Continuity Planning: Collaborate with the outgoing Executive Committee to develop a continuity plan that outlines critical tasks, deadlines, and ongoing commitments to ensure a seamless transition and avoid disruption of essential services or projects.
Support and Guidance: Provide ongoing support, guidance, and mentorship to the incoming committee members during the transition period, addressing their queries, clarifying processes, and helping them navigate their new roles effectively.
Reporting: Prepare a comprehensive transition report documenting the activities, achievements, challenges, and recommendations of the Transition Committee. This report will serve as a resource for future transitions and organizational improvement.
The statement notes that “The transition committee, the first of it’s kind in the history of the NBA Lagos Branch, is another unique legacy of the outgoing administration of the NBA Lagos Branch led by Mr. Uwanna, which has taken consistent steps to institutionalize the governance processes of the Lagos Branch. One of the first issues we identified two years ago when we assumed office was the need to transform the governance processes of the NBA Lagos Branch in line with international best practices, and to ensure that we transfer these processes to the administration after us for continuous improvement.
“All elected Executive Members of the Branch, and all Standing and Ad-hoc Committees will submit detailed hand-over reports summarizing their activities in the last two years, and make recommendations for the incoming administration. We hope that this practice will become the norm for subsequent administrations of our Branch, as we work towards the collective goal of maintaining our enviable status as the Premier Bar in Nigeria.”
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Chief Paul Harris Ogbole (SAN) is a former board member of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and a current member of the Council for Legal Education (Nigeria Law School). He is the chairman of the Conference Planning Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP). In this interview with AMEH OCHOJILA, he shares his views on the challenges of administration of justice and the preparedness of NBA-SLP to have its yearly conference next month.
What do you think is responsible for the slow pace of the justice system in Nigeria? In the first instance, I think that a Nigerian judge is overworked, and the judiciary is over-tasked. There is more work and less pay for the judges. So, with the volume of work that the Judges have, their dockets are filled. The number of cases that the judges have in their dockets daily ranges from 20, 30, 40 and sometimes 60.
The question you ask yourself is: how much time will be deployed to research? How well can a judge properly evaluate evidence? That’s one aspect of it. The second aspect is, we have said repeatedly that the facilities available to Nigerian judges are the least in contemporary judicial practice. Our respective Houses of Assembly have automated recording devices, but most of the courts have manual recording, which is a long-hand proceeding.
It is tedious, back-breaking, slow and archaic. That is the problem confronting our judges today. A judge in Nigeria among the three arms of government is least enumerated, and if you make the job unattractive in terms of remuneration, how do you in the first place get the best attracted to the bench? So, the remuneration of judges is nothing to write home about.
The facilities available to them from the court environment are eyesore. It is sad that a temple of justice is allowed to look like a shack. The furniture, equipment, staffing and training all speak about the quality of service you get from the courts.
Judges’ welfare is not attended to, yet the volume of work to be done is huge. So, all of those contribute to slow down the pace of work. Sometimes, lawyers contribute to the cause of delay by filing frivolous applications. And in some cases, as lawyers, we owe it a duty to advise our clients properly as to the likelihood of the general position of the law.
What’s the significance of the NBA section on legal practice as a body under the Bar? The section on legal practice is primarily to improve legal practice and to meet the need of the 21st-century practice demands, and also to reposition members to embrace the change occasioned by globalisation, information technology, and economic development. The section is to assist members to develop and improve legal services to the public.
You intend to hold a conference this month, what is its theme? The world is a global village. We need to expand the frontiers of the areas of practice available to our lawyers. As we continue to increase in numbers as lawyers in this country, we must find a place of relevance for ourselves here and across the globe. So, with the advent of the Internet, modernity, and artificial intelligence, we see the need for Nigerians to tap into all of those technologies so that we can take advantage of the world being a global village.
Having said that, the question to ask is, how prepared are we as lawyers to tap into these advantages? So, the theme of this year’s conference is: ‘Legal Practice Without Borders’ which is to examine the practice and transformation of law in Nigeria and the international environment. It is to critically examine what role our lawyers can play and how relevant they can be in the world space. The question is, how prepared are we? How can we take advantage of the goings on around the world? What areas of training do we further need? How can we position ourselves so that we can be relevant in the scheme of things? How can Nigerian lawyers practice well in Nigeria and outside the country? We are happy to know that our lawyers are doing well in Canada, and elsewhere in Europe. Luckily, our lawyers are currently judges somewhere in Canada and Britain.
They received their training in the country. The training we receive is such that makes you are a global citizen. At the conference, we will showcase Nigeria lawyers as global citizens. Besides, how well are we positioned to take advantage of all of the emerging Information and Communication Technology (ICT)? If we don’t do these, we will find out that we will lose relevance, and lawyers from other parts of the world would gain relevance over and above us.
Before you know it, they would begin to take our jobs. We need to position ourselves in such a way and manner that we can relate globally and positively affect the justice system in Nigeria and the globe. We will be happy to hear that more Nigerian lawyers are doing well globally.
The essence of the conference is to showcase the status of the Nigerian lawyer, the advantages it can bring to bear, and positioning himself to be a practitioner across the globe.
What calibres of resource persons are expected at the event? We are expecting high-class, world-class, highly reputable judges, lawyers and academics. The conference will attract distinguished jurists, academia, high-level government functionaries and corporate executives.
You propose to organise a debate for young lawyers at the event, what’s the essence? We believe we are catching them young. The experience you gather as a young lawyer would go a long way in making you a better lawyer. Young lawyers are indeed the future of our profession. So we decided this year to say let us have a debate for young lawyers, and the essence is to get them to improve themselves and to expose themselves to the nuances of practice. This time around, it is a non-courtroom environment. And we believe that the argument that would emanate from this debate would be a far-reaching argument that would also help to contribute in no small way to expanding the experiences of our practice.
Giving young lawyers the opportunity to embark on a debate like this before very seasoned lawyers and judges would provide an opportunity for confidence building, for exposure and showcasing themselves and being role models to so many other young lawyers.
Sitting among their peers and seeing how well they are doing, I think it would stimulate other lawyers to also work harder regarding their advocacy. We have prices. The winner would be given N750, 000, second runners up would get N500, 000, while the third runners up would be awarded N350, 000.
A number of our lawyers and SANs have indicated interest in giving so much more support to the programme, and to the winners as a source of encouragement. So, we look forward to a very robust debate among our young lawyers. Even the older lawyers will learn a lot from these young lawyers.
They will share knowledge on the use of technology, which they acquired in more recent cases they encountered or worked on. The strength of any practice hinges on the quality and calibre of research embarked on. Most of us commit heavily on the abilities of the young lawyers, their industry and use of technology. They do quite well in those. I must compliment and commend the effort of our young lawyers for their contribution to legal practice. Oftentimes, they are unsung but I think they are true heroes in our profession. They need to be celebrated and encouraged at every opportunity.
There is an extension for early bird registration. Why is it so? Yes, after the closure, we decided to extend it by two weeks period for the early birds. The reasons are: first of all, we are in a season of joy. The Sallah season is a time of celebration. The news is coming at a time when we are all celebrating and you know for a few days this week, we have two days of public holiday and much of the week there would be less of official activities and so we believe that extending the time would give so many people more opportunity to cover up.
Again there is a lot of pressure from our members. People wanting to register and for one reason or the other are unable to increased the demand for an extension. Those are the reason we decided to give an additional two weeks window.
Is there any special provision for gentlemen in skirts and the physically challenged? For physically challenged lawyers, we have in place structures that would support them. For instance, we have made arrangement for interpreters for people who have hearing challenges. We have in place officers and men who would assist people who have some other physical challenges in terms of movement in and out.
We also have a discount for people with physical challenges, a discount in the aid of registration and there are quite a number of incentives to encourage participation of lawyers with physical challenges. For female lawyers, we have systems to encourage them to attend. As I speak to you, specifically, 20 female lawyers would be registered free. That’s the window available only to female lawyers and it’s a way to encourage our female lawyers. And there is also a special discount again for females to register, and then there is a discount also for our gentlemen in skirts.
Credit: THE GUARDIAN
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The Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria(MULAN) has urged aspiring delegates to register for its Annual Conference holding in Lafia, Nasarawa State, saying there would be no onsite registration for the 5-day programme.
The Annual Conference will hold from July 19 to July 23, 2023.
According to an earlier statement signed by Ishaku M. Dikko SAN and MOHAMMED Adama, the Chairman and Secretary respectively of the Conference Planning Committee (CPC), the Annual General Conference has as its theme, “Religion, power and politics: The need for a unified polity.”
Dikko assured MULAN members that the conference “will be a memorable event,” even as he urged them to register early for the conference. On her part, MOHAMMED Adama, who is the first-ever female Secretary of MULAN-CPC, stated that “We have put everything in place to ensure a seamless registration experience for all members.”
The conference fees range from as low as N5,000 for Young Lawyers to N50,000 for Senior Advocates of Nigeria, political office holders as well as Managing Directors/CEOs of companies and organisations.
A senior lawyer and member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch Human Rights Committee, Lillian Eronini has petitioned the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba over alleged traffic violation ticket issued by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
In the petition made available to CITY LAWYER, the fiery human rights activist also demanded “immediate reversal of the processed traffic violation fine of N20,000 (twenty thousand Naira) from the Lagos State Traffic Management Solution (LTMS) as there is no basis for same within seven days) from the date of the receipt of this letter, else I will have no option but use the instrumentality of the law to reverse the said illegal fine.”
Dated June 15, 2023 and addressed to LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Bolaji Oreagba, the petition was titled, “RE: PROTEST LETTER IN RESPECT OF TRAFFIC VIOLATION PROCESSED AGAINST MY VEHICLE NO LSD 273 HG ON 18TH MAY 2023, FOR ILLEGAL PARKING IN FRONT OF SEXUAL OFFENCES COURT HOUSE, HIGH COURT IKEJA.”
Narrating her ordeal, Eronini, who was in court to pursue a pro bono matter on behalf of an indigent client, wrote: “On the 7th day of June 2023, I received a processed traffic violation fine of N20,000,00 (Twenty Thousand Naira) from the Lagos State Traffic Management Solution (LTMS) which they claimed to be penalty for the traffic offence of improper parking with violation no: VNLSD273HG070623042946.
“A video was sent with the said penalty, after watching the video, I discovered that the said video was recorded in front of the Lagos State Sex Offenders Court house, within the Court premises of the Ikeja High Court Lagos.
“I am a member of the NBA Lagos Branch Human Rights Committee, by virtue of the said position, I have so many pro-bono cases assigned by some Lagos State High Court Judges.
“It is pertinent to inform you that I was in court for one of those pro bono cases (THE STATE OF LAGOS V. PETER SAMUEL WITH CHARGE NO.:ID/5350C/2017 BEFORE JUSTICE OSHODI).
“It is also instructive to state that on the said 18th of May 2023, my good self and other colleagues too numerous to mention were directed by the court’s security to park in front of the court, (Domestic Violence & Sex offences Court) because the car park could not accommodate all the vehicles of lawyers, as there is clearly no traffic sign prohibiting lawyers from parking their vehicles beside the court premises.
“I also wish to draw your attention to the fact that from the video evidence sent to me, the said vehicles parked beside the court premises were not causing any form of obstruction to the free flow of traffic.
“Further take note that upon receipt of the processed traffic violation fine of N20,000 (twenty thousand Naira) from your office, I immediately contacted some of my colleagues who we parked together on the said date to confirm if their cars were also fined and to my greatest surprise, only my vehicle was issued with the said parking fine, as such I wonder why my car will be HANDPICKED from over 50 cars parked on the stretch of that road.”
CITY LAWYER gathered that LASTMA is yet to respond to the petition at press time.
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The Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference Planning Committee (NBA-AGCPC) has taken delivery of conference bags, the key souvenir for the event.
CITY LAWYER gathered that the Committee is currently processing the bags for freighting to delegates, 54 days to the commencement of the conference.
The committee, led by former NBA General Secretary, Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN, had assured during the unveiling of the conference website and theme that it would ensure seamless dispatch of the conference bags to delegates.
The Annual Conference, by far the flagship event hosted yearly by the NBA, will hold at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja from August 25, 2023 to September 1, 2023. The theme of the conference is “Getting it Right: Charting the Course for Nigeria’s Nation Building.”
Speaking on the forthcoming event, Osigwe said: “The Annual General Conference (AGC) is the leading annual event of the NBA and a staple on the calendar of the Nigerian legal profession. Each year, we come together to discuss, debate and learn; constantly seeking new ways to improve the practice of our profession, how we service our clients, and the way our society is governed and regulated.”
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The Conference Planning Committee (CPC) for the 2023 Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP) Annual Conference has entered into a partnership with NACO LOGISTICS LIMITED for discounted hotel rates for conferees.
CITY LAWYER recalls that the CPC led by Mr. Paul Harris Ogbole SAN recently extended the Early Bird registration window for the Annual Conference to July 7, 2023.
According to the senior lawyer, “Delegates are encouraged to take advantage of the discounted hotel rates by making their seamless reservations through NACO Logistics.”
To download the Hotel Catalog and pictures of the hotels listed for the conference, simply visit the link below: https://nacobooking.com/special-offer.
Conferees can book any of the selected hotels either online using the above link or offline through bank transfer on the account details provided on the above hotel catalog.
The company advises conferees to opt for offline payment using the discounted rates on the catalog as online rates are slightly higher due to some hidden charges.
You can contact NACO Logistics for enquiries: Call:07031477237 __ WhatsApp: wa.me/2348069206814 Email: support@nacobooking.com Company name: NACO LOGISTICS LTD “Booking through NACO saves you money, time and stress.”
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The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP) has extended its early bird registration for the 2023 NBA-SLP Annual Conference to July 7, 2023.
According to a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, the conference will hold at the NBA National Secretariat, NBA House, Abuja from July 16 to July 19, 2023. The theme of the eagerly awaited Annual Conference is “Legal Practice Without Borders.”
The Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee (CPC), Mr. Paul Harris Ogbole SAN, urged prospective delegates to register for the Annual Conference, adding that “We are thrilled to be able to bring together legal professionals from across the country to discuss the challenges, opportunities, and trends in the legal landscape.
“The legal profession in Nigeria is a crucial part of the country’s economy and society, and this year’s conference will explore how we can work together to ensure that legal practice in Nigeria continues to thrive. Our conference will feature a range of sessions, workshops, and panel discussions, led by leading experts in their respective fields.
“As always, our conference will provide a unique opportunity for legal practitioners to connect with one another, share ideas, and collaborate on solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing the legal industry in Nigeria.
“We invite you to join us for what promises to be an unforgettable event!”
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The Eti-Osa Lawyers’ Forum has felicitated Muslim faithful especially lawyers on the occasion of the celebration of the Eid ul Adha.
In a statement personally signed by the Chairman of the Forum, Mr. Adewale Sanni alongside the Assistant Secretary, Mr. Gabriel Peter, the Forum also congratulated the newly elected Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch and other elected Executive Committee members on their election.
The statement reads: “The Eti-Osa Lawyers’ Forum felicitate Muslim Lawyers on the occasion of the celebration of the Eid ul Adha. We also pray that the Almighty Allah answer their individual prayers and grant them a joyous celebration.
“We also pray that the Almighty Allah answer their individual prayers and grant them a joyous celebration.
“We also use this opportunity to congratulate the newly elected Executives of the Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, led by the Chairman-elect, Mr. Bisi Makanjuola, and jointly and severally, we wish them a great tenure ahead.
“We, on behalf of all members, acknowledge that the elections were keenly contested, and the candidates exhibited great intelligence and strength of character particularly during the build-up to the elections, and as witnessed at the Forum’s June 2023 monthly meeting where candidates had the opportunity of speaking to the topic of the day, as well as subsequent fora.
“We pledge the usual support of the Forum to the next Executives of the Lagos Branch to be formed by the elected officials and urge that the cordial relationship between the Forum and Lagos Branch of the NBA is maintained under the next administration.”
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The Chairman of the 2023 Annual General Conference (AGC) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has felicitated with Muslim faithful on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
In a statement on the celebration, Osigwe said: “As Muslims all over the world mark the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir, I wish my distinguished Muslim friends and colleagues Happy Sallah celebrations.
“May the season bring you divine favour, prosperity and good health.
“May Allah accept all our good deeds and sacrifices, and may He unite our great nation, Nigeria.
“Happy Sallah.”
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The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Yakubu Maikyau, SAN has felicitated with Muslims on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
A statement by the NBA Publicity Secretary Akorede Habeeb Lawal reads:
NBA PRESIDENT FELICITATES MUSLIMS ON THE OCCASION OF EID-EL- KABIR
The President of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN felicitates the Muslim Ummah, particularly Muslim Lawyers and members of the Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN) on the occasion of Eid-al-Adha.
Eid el Adha is an instructive celebration and its teachings of faith, sacrifice, humility, love and obedience should not be lost on us all. The NBA President therefore urges Nigerians to imbibe these lessons.
Mr. Maikyau while praying for the peace and progress of the nation, reiterates the commitment of the NBA to continue to hold government to account on its promises to Nigerians.
Akorede Habeeb Lawal National Publicity Secretary, NBA
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The Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee of Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP) 2023 Annual Conference, Mr. Paul Harris Ogbole SAN has felicitated with Muslim faithful as they celebrate Eid Mubarak.
Ogbole enjoined Muslim lawyers in particular to reflect on the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) especially in their relationship with others.
He implored Muslims across the country to hold high the injunctions of Allah (SWT) as contained in the Qur’an, and “to preach peace, love, and kindness.”
The senior lawyer implored Muslims to exemplify the teachings of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) in their daily living to ensure peaceful coexistence with all people, and called on them to “pray fervently for healing especially in Nigeria and the world.”
His words: “May this year’s celebration offer each and every one of us a most rewarding experience, even as we remember our nation, Nigeria, in prayers.
“May Almighty Allah look into our good intentions and answer all our prayers.”
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Eid Mubarak: Solar For All Ltd felicitates with Muslims; announces 12 months installment payment plan for Staff of Abuja MULTIDOOR COURT HOUSE and the Judiciary.
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We celebrate with our Muslim brothers and sisters on the occasion of this year’s Eid El-Kabir celebration.
We are equally happy to announce our partnership with the Abuja MULTIDOOR COURT HOUSE to ensure uninterrupted power supply to staff through Solar technology, for a more enjoyable Sallah celebration.
We pray for peace, growth and security for our nation.
Other beneficiaries from whom the efficiency of delivery can be verified include Amb. Gen. Tukur Bururai (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.
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Mr. Bisi Makanjuola has emerged the new Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch following the conclusion of today’s keenly contested branch elections.
He polled 720 votes to beat his closest rival, Mr. Mayowa Owolabi who garnered 684 votes. Mr. Adebola Lema polled 258 votes to come a distant third.
Makanjuola had posted an early lead in the race, trumping Owolabi with as many as 58 votes. The gap however began to narrow as the elections drew to a close, even as CITY LAWYER gathered that he never let off the double-digit lead throughout the duration of the race.
As predicted by CITY LAWYER, it was a tight race between the two leading contenders, as they went neck-and-neck throughout the duration of the poll.
Meanwhile, the post of Vice Chairman has gone to former Counsel at TEXACO Nigeria Plc and Lead Partner at Estelle Attorneys & Legal Consult, Esther Ifeoma Jimoh who garnered a whopping 1107 votes to beat her rival, Adefowoke AyoPonle who polled 522 votes.
Mr. Emuobonuvie Majemite, a Partner at PUNUKA Attorneys and Solicitors clinched the post of Secretary with 889 votes to beat Mr. Kelechukwu Uzoka who polled 754 votes.
Also, Oyindamola Chinelo Fasakin of Riceky Tarfa & Co has been returned as the Social Secretary with 895 votes, defeating Mr. Dickson Obairi who polled 732 votes, while Mr. Omoniyi Onabule trumped Bayo Olusanya with 823 votes to emerge as the next Publicity Secretary of the branch. Olusanya polled 770 votes.
Meanwhile, the Electoral Committee had to send a strong warning to rein in canvassers who were still calling eligible voters and sending messages om sundry platforms to woo voters, hours after the ballot had opened.
The Electoral Committee members were hands-on via branch digital platforms in tracking complaints from eligible voters who did not receive their voting links and tackling such complaints.
Other candidates were returned unopposed. The list of newly elected Executive Committee is below:
There is an ongoing and fierce tripodal race to determine who replaces incumbent Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch Chairman, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna.
The intrigues over who takes home the coveted prize peaked today with disclaimers from several candidates over a purported “Unity List” which surfaced online.
Meanwhile, the Electoral Committee led by Mr. Wale Akoni San has hired a Jacksonville, United States based electronic balloting comapny to deliver ballots to the 1757 eligible voters.
The chairmanship race seems quite unpredictable that many political observers are not willing to stick out their neck on the eventual winner. The candidates for the chairmanship poll are Mr. Adebola Lema, a Managing Partner at Fountain Court Partners; Mr. Mayowa Owolabi, a Partner at Pistis Partners LLP, and Mr. Olabisi Makanjuola, a Partner at Olanihun Ajayi LP.
While Owolabi and Makanjuola are from the “corporate and commercial bloc,” Lema is promoted by his supporters as a “core Bar man.”
Political watchers from the “commercial” bloc believe the race is between Owolabi and Makanjuola, arguing that they have the numbers especially from the big law firms to clinch the prize.
However, there has been a bruising campaign between the two “commercial” camps. This is not unconnected with the fact that the candidates are viewed as being promoted or supported by two major political blocs which are very likely to again square up during the 2024 NBA Elections. These are the former NBA President Olumide Akpata bloc and Dr. Babatunde Ajibade SAN bloc. It is recalled that both Bar Leaders battled for the presidency of NBA in the 2020 race, with Akpata taking the coveted prize.
CITY LAWYER investigation shows that while Owolabi is sponsored by the Akpata bloc, Makajuola is being promoted by the Ajibade bloc. On his part, Lema has tried to present his pitch as the ‘core Bar man,’ even as he is viewed as aligned with former NBA Lagos Branch Secretary Alex Muoka and some traditional Bar Leaders.
While some political watchers contend that Lema’s campaign has not shown the potency and traction to dislodge the “commercial” bloc, others argue that Makanjuola is a new comer to the branch, adding that his law firm has no track record especially of supporting the branch financially. On the other hand, Owolabi has been pummeled as being propped up by the ‘godfathers’ in the branch particularly through juicy committee appointments. The candidates have denied these claims, each vowing that he is the one to beat at the poll tomorrow.
CITY LAWYER investigation shows that the big law firms will play a crucial role in who wins tomorrow’s election, given that they can turn the tide for any candidate through bloc votes. Mid-size law firms are also being aggressively canvassed by the candidates.
Among the ‘Big Three’ are Aluko and Oyebode, TEMPLARS and Olanihun Ajayi LP. Other big and mid-size law firms that are likely to impact the elections include Sofunde, Osakwe, Ogundipe and Belgore (SOOB); G. Elias & Co.; AELEX Legal; Adepetun Caxton-Martins Agbor & Segun; Babalakin & Co.; Duale Ovia & Alex-Adedipe; Banwo & Ighodalo; Udo Udoma and Belo-Osagie (UUBO); Kenna Partners; Olajide Oyewole LLP; Alliance Law Firm; SimmonsCooper Partners (SCP); Jackson Etti & Edu; Odujinrin & Adefulu; PUNUKA Attorneys and Solicitors; Olisa Agbakoba Legal; Africa Law Practice NG & Company (ALP); Streamsowers & Köhn; Rickey Tarfa & Co; The New Practice (TNP); The Law Practice (TLC), and Perchstone and Graeys.
Their impact will however depend on how many of their staff are members of the branch as well as those that met the five-meetings requirement to qualify them to vote. It will also depend on each firm’s level of commitment to any of the chairmanship candidates.
There are however strong indications that Makanjuola will receive bloc votes from his law firm, Olanihun Ajayi LP which may boast of about 100 eligible voters as well as at another mega law firm, Aluko & Oyebode, given the strong backing from former NBA Lagos Branch Chairman, Mr. Chukwuka Ikwuazom SAN. Ikwuazom is viewed as a presidential hopeful in the 2024 NBA Elections.
Conversely, Owolabi will receive bloc votes from TEMPLARS where he has a strong support from former NBA President Olumide Akpata. The firm boasts of about 102 eligible voters. He will also receive highly substantial votes at Babalakin & Co., his campaign having been boosted by an endorsement by one of the firm’s influential partners, Mr. Tola Oshobi SAN. The same may be true at The Law Crest (TLC) where he is heavily backed by an Akpata ally and NBA-ICLE Board Chairman, Mr. Tobenna Erojikwe. Erojikwe is also heavily touted as an NBA presidential hopeful come 2024. Owolabi is also bound to take the lion’s share of votes at Ajumogobia & Okeke as well as at Jackson Etti & Edu, being an alumnus of both leading firms.
The two top contenders will then engage in a fire-fight for votes in the other big and mid-size firms in order to take home the prize, even as Lema will be hoping on his core loyalists to make a strong showing.
CITY LAWYER investigation shows that some big law firms may have perfected plans to checkmate the voting pattern especially among their junior lawyers by directing them to vote at the office. This is to ensure that they deliver sizeable number of votes to their preferred candidates.
Following the release of a purported “Unity List” today, CITY LAWYER investigation showed that some of the candidates on the list were not privy to any discussion surrounding the list or its publication. This led to a flurry of disclaimers by the affected candidates via short messaging service (SMS) and social media channels. Unverified claims suggested that the list may have been orchestrated by detractors.
Meanwhile, the Electoral Committee has sent an email alerting eligible voters on the election, saying: “The NBA Lagos elections will begin at 5 AM on Tuesday, 6/27/23. Please watch your email inbox (and SMS sent to xxxxxxxxxxx) for your link to the ballot. You will be able to vote from any PC, tablet or smart phone, connected to the Internet.”
Vote-now.com LLC is the “election agent” hired by the Electoral Committee for the election. The company has over 25 years of experience conducting web-based elections, and has “assisted hundreds of business and academic professional organizations, HOA’s, non-profit groups, and universities with their balloting needs.”
Aside from the position of Chairman, other posts to be voted for are those of Vice Chairman, Secretary, Publicity Secretary and Social Secretary. Other positions are unopposed.
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ARREST BEFORE INVESTIGATION: How the Courts and Ministries of Justices Have Aided the Abuse By Law Enforcement Agencies
Four years of implementing the Police Duty Solicitors Scheme (PDSS) in some parts of Nigeria has revealed a dangerous trend affecting the effective implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice System
The Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Law (ACJA) is undoubtedly an ingenious legislation that regulates how Law enforcement and the courts handle criminal activities. The Law has provisions that protect the citizens from abuse and violations of their Fundamental Rights.
Sadly however, there is a foundational problem in the exercise of the powers of law enforcement officers to arrest an individual. Even though the ACJA provides clearly on the steps to take to effect an arrest, these rules are not followed and the COURTS don’t care how a citizen was arrested and in most cases the Courts conveniently gloss over this fundamental aspect giving the law enforcement agencies the leeway to continue in this illegality.
While Arrest can come before an investigation, especially where a crime is committed in the face of a law enforcement agent, a Judge/Magistrate and even a regular citizen, it is however not the usual ordinary way of bringing a person to answer to a criminal act before the courts
In Nigeria today, the law enforcement agents lack investigative skills because this aspect has been underutilized and the courts has aided in it’s underutilization.
Even the ministries of justices that ought to ensure that crimes are properly investigated and prosecuted have failed entirely in protecting the Courts from congestion brought about by unprovable criminal charges.
Some investigations starts and ends with taking statements from the suspect and the complainant. This is absolutely unacceptable
When will our DPPs and Courts start to condemn this lazy method of bringing a charge before a court? When will they realize that they are contributing to abuse and the eventual collapse of the justice system?
Why should a magistrate entertain a charge that is not accompanied by a preliminary investigation report detailing the mode of arrest and the length of detention?
Under what facts stated are arrest warrants even issued? It is unfortunate that it sometimes has to take an order by a Chief Judge to control the issuances of arrest warrants when the laws are clear.
It is a no-brainer that we need to train our Judges and State Counsels in this regard. We must treat our citizens with respect and dignity. We must make our laws work through proper implementation.
How many charges are filed in our courts daily? What is the conviction rate of criminal cases in our courts? Answers to these questions will shed light into the abnormality and the need to correct the problem.
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Controversies have engulfed the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch Elections slated for tomorrow.
CITY LAWYER gathered that aside from unverified claims that the branch leadership has favourite candidates for the poll, there are concerns that the Electoral Committee led by Mr. Wale Akoni SAN has not carried all eligible voters along.
Other members of the Electoral Committee are Mr. Godwin Omoaka SAN, Mr. Kelechi Obi SAN, Mrs. Oluwakemi Eweje and Mrs. Temitope Aribisala (Secretary).
While a few members claimed that their names were missing from the Final Voters List published by the embattled Electoral Committee, at least one member claimed that some names had been removed from the voters list without an explanation.
A senior lawyer, Mr. Babatunde Ogala SAN had in a post seen by CITY LAWYER queried the Electoral Committee for allegedly failing to carry all eligible voters along.
His words: “I understand the Lagos Branch elections will hold on Tuesday 27th June 2023. I must however note that unlike in the past when we got direct communication through email, this time there has been no such communication.
“We do not know the voting procedure. We do not have the voters register nor list of contestants from the electoral committee.
“It cannot be said that the branch does not have my e-mail address since I get notification by mail on all other issues in the branch from notices of meetings to the just concluded law week from the Secretariat and various committees.
“Why has it been different with the issue of the elections? In fact, if not for a call I just received from one of the contestants a few minutes ago, I may not have known that the elections are a few days away. This I think isn’t good enough preparation and planning for the elections.
“The elections must be seen to be credible and transparent and the current state of affairs with a few days to the elections doesn’t augur well for us all and the branch. The Electoral Committee should please talk to us.”
Weighing in on the controversy, Mr. Jacob Dipo said: “I thought of this just this noon when the timing of voting was raised on another platform I belong. In fact, I had to quickly check the website to see if any information is there as per the voting timing. But alas – nothing as such!
“Someone said voting is from 5 am of 27th June till 6 pm on 27th June; another person is of the view that voting will be from 12 am of 27th June till 11:59 pm of 27th June.
“I agree with the Learned Silk that this isn’t good enough and the Electoral Committee should talk to us.”
Speaking on the concerns over the exact duration of the voting process, former NBA Lagos Branch Publicity Secretary, Mr. James Sonde said: “And to buttress this, there was an argument as to the timing of voting. Someone is of the view that the voting is between 5 am to 6 pm on 27th June, while another opined that it is from 12 am of 27th June to 11:59 pm of 27th June.
“I think it is not too early for the Electoral Committee to pass a circular in respect of the voting procedures – a simple flier will do. My view though.”
Others also expressed concern that unlike in previous elections when a demonstration of the voting system was done, that has not been the case this year.
Alleging that “it makes me wonder if something more nefarious is at stake,” a member stated that “With an election not more than 4 days to go, and with all the insinuations as to the bias being shown by the current ExCo for a particular candidate or members of the electoral committee having partners in their firms supporting a certain candidate, they really need to do a lot more to show us that this elections will be free and fair.”
Dousing the concerns, a senior lawyer and member of the Electoral Committee, Mr. Kelechi Obi SAN said: “I am a member of the electoral committee of this branch which is charged with the responsibility of organising the elections.
“The details of the elections has been disseminated on this platform, the branch website and the dedicated website for the elections – nbalagosdecides.com.ng.
“As lawyers we are guided by rules solely. The Uniform bylaws doesn’t make it a requirement that we send personal emails to people concerning the elections. What it requires includes the dissemination on platforms such as this and on the website.
“It is wrong for colleagues to continue a narrative concerning engagement when in fact flyers concerning this election have been shared on this platform and is on the branch website. Colleagues should exercise restraint before commenting; especially in instances where the comments are not exactly correct.”
CITY LAWYER observed that though the Electoral Committee had not done any demonstration of the electronic voting platform, it had published “Election Guidelines” where it set out details on the elections.
CITY LAWYER investigation shows that the controversy on the voting period stems from conflicting statements from the Electoral Committee. While the “Election Guidelines” still hoisted on the official election website and issued by the committee on 24th March, 2023 stated that “Elections shall hold from 8 am on Tuesday, the 27th of June, 2023 to 6 pm on 27th of June, 2023,” another set of “Election Guidelines” dated 30th May, 2023 state that “Elections shall hold from 5 am to 6 pm on Tuesday, the 27th of June 2023.”
The committee also stated that “Elections are by electronic Voting, the link to the secret ballot will be sent electronically to all eligible voters. Eligible voters can vote online from anywhere in the world.”
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Mr. Emuobonuvie Majemite’s bid to become the Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch received more boost at the weekend as many friends and supporters poured encomiums on him.
Among those singing the praise of Majemite are Senior Advocates and respected senior members of the branch who took out time to pen down their words of endorsement for the candidate.
Others took out time to create very beautiful personalised display pictures showing their support for EMUOBONUVIE MAJEMITE.
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Otu Oka Iwu, a pan-Igbo lawyers Association in Nigeria, has endorsed its 1st Assistant Secretary, Mr. Kelechukwu Uzoka for the position of Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch. This was done through a press release issued by the association’s President, Mazi Okechukwu Unegbu.
According to the association, “As an accomplished tech and entertainment lawyer, Uzoka possesses the necessary expertise and a strong commitment to handle the duties of the Secretary of NBA Lagos. Otu Oka Iwu recognizes Uzoka’s legal skills, tech-savviness, and dedication to improving the Bar. With his valuable contributions, Uzoka is poised to elevate the Branch Secretariat and bring positive change to the NBA Lagos Branch.”
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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch Law Week was held from 17th to 23rd June, 2023 with the theme, “Facing the Future: Law in a Globalised Economy”.
Though the event has come and gone, its memories will linger in the minds of many stakeholders who were a part of the annual Law Week.
Capturing the Essence: A Visual Journey Through the NBA Lagos Eventful Law Week
Embark on a captivating visual journey as we present the most memorable moments captured during the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Law Week which was held from 17th to 23rd June, with the theme; “Facing the Future: Law in a Globalised Economy”.
Through a series of captivating photographs, we offer an exclusive glimpse into the week-long event. From engaging panel discussions and thought-provoking presentations to networking sessions and celebratory gatherings, each image encapsulates the essence of the event. Join us as we take you on a visual odyssey through the event providing a window into the exciting discourse and camaraderie.
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Foremost human rights advocate and former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Prof. Chidi Odinkalu has thrown his weight behind Mr. Kelechukwu Uzoka in his bid for the post of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch Secretary.
This is coming on the heels of a similar endorsement by the influential Surulere Lawyers Forum (SLF).
Also lining behind the senior lawyer and Lead Partner at K&C Partners are Lady Debbie Obodoukwu, a Life Bencher as well as Beverly Agbakoba-Onyejianya, a Partner at Olisa Agbakoba Legal.
Below are their endorsements.
I am glad to see a new generation making the bid for leadership in the structures of @NigBarAssoc. @KcUzoka is a fresh & refreshing member of this new generation & it is my pleasure to support his bid to be the next Secretary of @NbaLagos.
#NBALAGOSDECIDES2023
Prof. Chidi Odinkalu
Having worked closely with Kelechukwu, I have witnessed firsthand his exceptional legal expertise, unwavering dedication, and passion for enhancing the legal profession. His technical and IT skills are exemplary, and I am confident that he will bring a fresh perspective and innovative approach to elevate the Branch Secretariat. Kelechukwu’s commitment to improving the Bar, coupled with his proven track record, make him the ideal candidate for this crucial role. I wholeheartedly support his candidacy and believe he will make a significant positive impact on the NBA Lagos.
Lady Debbie Obodoukwu (Life Bencher)
Kelechukwu Uzoka or KC as he is fondly known to his friends and family is an astute and compassionate person. He has demonstrated a genuine commitment to advancement of the legal practice by implementing tech into NBA events. He genuinely cares about welfare and exploring new areas of legal practice such as sports and blockchain law. I’m proud to support his bid to run as secretary. Please throw your full weight behind him.
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A candidate for Secretary in the forthcoming election of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch, Emuobonuvie Majemite, has said he will address the hiccups around delivery of lawyers’ stamp and seal. He said if elected, he will deliver innovative and technology-driven service to the secretariat.
At a briefing in Lagos, Majemite, a Partner at one of Nigeria’s oldest and leading law firms, Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors, vowed to bring his leadership experience to bear on branch activities.
He said: “I will streamline and abridge the process and time lag for application and delivery of the NBA stamp, an issue that continues to plague lawyers in private and public practice.
“I will increase the reportage of Branch activities in terms of sharing action points from general meetings and communiques from branch events. These will be available on the individual members’ portals.
“I will manage the Branch’s assets and implement a depreciation policy to take care of the disposal and replacement of outdated properties.
“I will implement technology in the delivery of most functions such as the issuance of letters of good standing, regular revision of branch membership, issuance of NBA ID cards, etc.
“I firmly believe that many tasks can be automated to make lives easier for members without having to visit the physical office.
“Much like many banking functions can be done from the comfort of our homes and offices, I will make interaction with the secretariat possible from members’ homes and offices. I will deliver an accessible secretariat to branch members.
“I will be dedicated to the secretariat for the duration of my tenure, with the full backing and support of my law firm, PUNUKA Attorneys and Solicitors and that of other organisations that I hold leadership positions in such as the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK (Nigeria Branch) and the National Association of Catholic Lawyers, Lagos Archdiocese.
“I plan to run a technologically-driven and solution-oriented secretariat.”
On what stands him out from other candidates running for the office, said he has the organisational skills and expertise to deliver on the job.
Majemite, who heads both the Property Law and the Arbitration and ADR Practice groups at Punuka, added: “Without meaning to sound immodest, my track record of proven administration and coordination sets me apart from my dear junior at the Bar running against me.
“I have manned positions that require strong organisational and interpersonal skills, which are my attributes I am known for. Finally, the institutional support of my firm cannot be over-emphasised.
“My practice will continue to thrive, even with my devotion to the branch secretariat because I am a partner in my firm of over ten partners.”
Majemite believes the NBA will continue to play a critical role in governance with the right leadership, which he will help provide at the Lagos Branch level if elected.
His words: “Just like any other voluntary association, there will always be room to do better. There is always some level of innovative service that can be applied by the leadership.
“I think that the NBA has done a fair job in being a common front for lawyers to speak on issues, to continue to be a watchdog in society and to advocate for the welfare of its members.
“There is always an opportunity for improvement, however, and competent lawyers must rise to the occasion to take the NBA to greater heights.”
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The Peoples Democratic Party and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar indicated on Tuesday that they will close their petition against President Bola Tinubu on Thursday, June 22.
The lead counsel to the party and Atiku, Chris Uche, SAN, said this at the resumed hearing in their petition.
In a joint petition, the duo is challenging the outcome of the February 25 election, which produced Tinubu as the elected president as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
The petitioners, according to the pre-hearing schedule drafted by the court, were given three weeks to prove their case, which was slated to end yesterday.
However, they were granted two extra days, which they lost in the course of the proceedings for different reasons – one of which was the June 12 public holiday in celebration of Democracy Day.
Although the petitioners stated during the preliminary hearing in the case that they would call a hundred witnesses in aid of their petition, they have so far called only 25.
Addressing newsmen after their session, Uche said, “We are closing our case on Thursday, it was supposed to end today, but because we lost two days, one of which was the June 12 public holiday, the court graciously extended our time by two days.” He asserted that some of the documents they will tender in the last two days will take the place of the remaining 70 witnesses.
Also at Tuesday’s proceeding, their joint petition came to a premature end following the presentation of unsorted documents before the election petition court. The court disagreed with their move to tender form EC8A series, that is, polling unit results beginning in Abia State.
According to the court, the documents were not properly sorted.
INEC’s lawyer, Kemi Pinero, had disagreed with Uche. He said it was incumbent on the parties to arrange the electoral documents given to them by the commission through a subpoena. Moreso, he said that the documents sought to be tendered by the PDP were brought by INEC’s officials from across the country.
He also stated that despite producing the documents, the PDP had not paid for its certification.
According to THE PUNCH, in response to the back and forth, the Justice Haruna Tsammani-led panel told Uche that it was the duty of his legal team to create a schedule of the documents after INEC had produced them through a subpoena.
After deliberations, the petitioners told the court that the legal team had agreed to take the documents back for arrangement and tendering today. After confirming the agreement of the respondents, the court adjourned the matter to June 21 for the continuation of the hearing.
INEC and others cross-examine Obi’s expert witness
Meanwhile, the Labour Party and its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, called a cloud engineer and architect, Clarita Ogar, for cross-examination before the Presidential Election Petition Court in aid of their case against Tinubu.
The witness appeared before the court on Monday, but cross-examination was moved to Tuesday following objections by the respondents based on the late service of the witness deposition by the petitioners.
Led by Patrick Ikweato, SAN, who examined the witness, Ogar informed the court that she was subpoenaed to appear as an expert but not on behalf of Amazon, as she also clarified in her statement.
She insisted during cross-examination by INEC, represented by A.B. Mahmoud SAN, that contrary to claims by the commission, there was no technical glitch in the maintenance stage of the commission’s technical application used in the upload of the presidential election results.
She maintained that glitches could, however, occur at the testing stage of an application and not after deployment at the post-production maintenance stage, as suggested by Mahmoud.
Counsel for Tinubu, Wole Olanikpekun SAN, during cross-examination, put it to the witness that she was the LP’s house of representative candidate in cross-river in the just concluded elections, which she affirmed.
The senior advocate asked the witness to confirm before the court that she also has a case in court against INEC bordering on her inability to upload some information to the commission’s platform in her bid to run for office.
In her response, Ogar argued that network failure could have come from either end, specifically from the side of the person performing the upload and not necessarily the server.
After the witness was discharged, the case of the petitioners could not proceed following their complaints that INEC had refused to give them sensitive documents.
Counsel for the petitioners, Livy Uzoukwu, SAN, lamented that they had subpoenaed INEC almost a month ago to produce the documents but that they deliberately refused to receive the service of the subpoena by the bailiff.
The senior advocate insisted that the electoral body must produce the remaining documents by today to enable them to advance their case which was slated to end the same day.
The court faulted their argument and questioned them on why they did not take further action following the alleged defiance exhibited by the commission. The court, headed by Justice Tsammani, adjourned the petition to today for continuation.
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Another Senior Advocate of Nigeria and two other senior lawyers have vowed to support the bid by Mr. Emuobonuvie Majemite to clinch the coveted position of Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch.
Aside from cerebral Lagos lawyer, Mr. Godson Ugochukwu who asserts that “Muobo will be available, he has genuine love for humanity and affects not authenticity,” former NBA Lagos Treasurer Foluke Akinmoladun as well as Mr. Omoruyi Edoigiawerie, a Partner at Edoigiawerie & Company LP, also endorsed Majemite for the position.
GODSON UGOCHUKWU, SAN Politicking is often characterised by pretentious declaimations and presumptuous speechifying. The result is a feast of words that leave little room for the interrogation of substance. But the discerning must delve beneath the din of combat for quality. That, in fact, is a necessity if the right choices must be made. Optics must yield to substance, posturing to purpose. We must pierce through the cosmetic to the pith of the offering. For therein lie the values we seek in they that seek the trust of our common aspirations.
The soul of any impactful organization lies in its Secretariat. It is the nerve centre of its functionality, the core of its ethics and the best exemplar of its composite values. The head of such an organ must thus be chosen with the same clarity of mind and care as the head of the organisation itself.
And this is why I heartily endorse Mr. Majemite Emuobonuvie for the office of Secretary of the NBA, Lagos Branch. Muobo is not an unknown quantity in this branch, but is of settled quality and familiar competence. He is a gentleman with the common touch. He will not yield to the headiness of power to soon forget his mandate. His feet are firmly planted in the reality of the Secretariat we need now – the building of the Secretariat of the future. Muobo will listen because he did not get to where he is today by being impervious to reason. Muobo will be available, he has genuine love for humanity and affects not authenticity. He is a visionary. I have read his manifesto. I have also seen his stewardship at the CIArb, of which I am a proud member.
I should think that these are the fundaments of our aspirations for an impactful Secretariat, the values we can all agree on.
He has my endorsement. I hope he can have yours, too. We will all be the better for it.
FOLUKE AKINMOLADUN Emuobonuvie Majemite is a gentleman I have come to respect for his candor, eloquence, professional savvyness and dress sense. I have also witnessed him demonstrate his organisational skills in various fora which I am sure will come to bear in the management of the NBA Lagos Secretariat. This is why I wholeheartedly endorse him for the position of secretary of NBA Lagos Branch.
OMORUYI EDOIGIAWERIE One of the biggest challenges of leadership anywhere is the lack of strong institutions. This is often because those who get elected choose to build themselves alone rather than the institution. I am a change agent, and I believe in not just questioning the present but also creating a pathway to the future, a pathway that institutionalizes growth, innovation, and excellence in service delivery.
I have no doubt that of the two eminently qualified candidates for the office of the secretary of our dear branch, Mr Emuobonuvie Majemite is the best candidate to take the branch secretariat to the next level of innovative service, qualitative administration and all-round excellence. His honest, pragmatic, and unique insight into our branch’s problems and his willingness to examine the issues and listen closely to members of the branch from all sides of the divide set him apart. I have worked with him at the steering committee of the Young Members Group of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK) Nigeria Branch, and I know the stuff he is made of.
Come election day, I will vote for him, and I encourage you to do the same.
Omoruyi Edoigiawerie Partner, Edoigiawerie & Company LP
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The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference Planning Committee (NBA-AGCPC), Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN will today lead conferees at the NBA Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) Annual Conference to party at the vintage Cubana Hut & Grill in GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.
Sponsored by the Bar Leader, the party is one of the sideline events at the ongoing Annual Conference which kicked off with cocktails by the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba.
The former NBA General Secretary is also the sponsor of the “Health Walk” which precedes the Opening Ceremony of the Annual Conference on Wednesday, with the take-off point as NBA Ikeja Branch House.
A member of the popular Cubana Group, Cubana Hut & Grill is strategically located in the high-brow Isaac John Street, Ikeja, GRA. The event kicks off at 7 pm.
CITY LAWYER gathered that Osigwe is also listed as one of the Speakers at the Annual Conference. He will be speaking on the sub-theme, “Public interest protection and the place of ethical values in the temple of justice.” Aside from retired Justice Kate Abiri, former Bayelsa State Chief Judge, who will chair the technical session, other panelists include the immediate past Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo SAN; Mr. Austin Chiefo Ejiofobiri, Founder, ACE Foundation/Living By Design; Ms. Janet Gbam of the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria; Dr. Idachaba Ajogwu of the Faculty of Law, Kogi State University, and Mr. Benson Iwuagwu, Executive Director, Prison Fellowship Nigeria (PFN). The session commences at 3:30 pm as one of the sessions that trail the eagerly awaited Opening Ceremony.
The conference holds at CITADEL Events Centre, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos from June 20 to June 23, 2023 with the theme, “Post-election Nigeria: the judiciary in the eye of the storm.” To register, click on www.nbaspidel.ng/conference.
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The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch has released the manifestos of candidates for different elective positions.
Here is the link https://lnkd.in/dVrW2-37to download my Manifesto themed #ElevatingEfficiency which documents what I will do when voted as the Secretary of the Branch in the forthcoming branch elections which will hold on the 27th of June 2023.
My manifesto is hinged on 5 key areas that will be improved upon for the benefit of our members:
Technology Driven Secretariat
Enhanced Member Engagement and Improved Member Service
Inclusive Leadership and Diversity
Transparent Financial Management
Advocacy, Mentoring and Service
Fellow Lagos Branch members, I humbly ask for your support and trust as I seek to serve as NBA Lagos Branch Secretary. With a passion for innovation, a commitment to member welfare, and a proven track record of leadership and service, I believe I can bring positive transformation to our branch. Together, let us strive for excellence, embrace change, and shape a brighter future for our association and the legal profession at large.
Kelechukwu Uzoka, LLM, MCIArb (UK) Candidate for Secretary NBA Lagos Branch
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The Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIARB) Nigeria Branch, Chief Gbola Akinola SAN has backed the bid by Mr. Emuobonuvie Majemite to clinch the coveted position of Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch.
Majemite is a Partner and Head of Property Law, Arbitration and ADR Practice Groups at the leading law firm of PUNUKA Attorneys & Solicitors.
In an endorsement letter obtained by CITY LAWYER, the chartered arbitrator and top lawyer wrote: “Mr Emuobonuvie Majemite is the incumbent Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Young Members Group of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK (Nigeria Branch). In this capacity, he has coordinated a number of knowledge-building programs for young arbitration and ADR practitioners.
“I can vouch for his competence and capacity and I believe he will bring his organisational and interpersonal skills to bear at the secretariat of the Premier Bar. I commend and endorse Mr Majemite for Secretary of the Lagos Branch, Nigerian Bar Association.”
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The immediate past President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa, has finally spoken up following comments by her husband, former Senator Adamu Bulkachuwa, that he obtained favours from her on behalf of his fellow senators.
Defending her role as a judicial officer, the retired President of the Court of Appeal stated that she never in her 40-year judicial career compromised her oath of office.
Justice Bulkachuwa came under the spotlight following a video clip showing her husband making comments during the Senate Valedictory Session which many interpreted as evidence of his interference in the jurist’s performance of her duties.
She however denied the allegation of judicial compromise in a statement dated June 17, 2023. Justice Bulkachuwa said: “My attention has been drawn to the trending video of what was said by my husband Senator Adamu M. Bulkachuwa.
“I want to state categorically that I never at any time compromised my oath of office to favour any party who appeared before me throughout my judicial career spanning 40 years of service to my country.
“My decisions were always based on the facts, the law and in accordance with my conscience and oath of office.
“Also, as President of the Court of Appeal, my fellow justices of the court can attest to the fact that I never interfered with the independence of any of the justices of the court in the discharge of their judicial functions.”
CITY LAWYER recalls that Senator Bulkachuwa had claimed that he encroached on his wife’s “freedom and independence” in the course of her work as a judicial officer.
His words: “Particularly my wife whose freedom and independence were encroached upon when she was in office. She has been tolerant and accepted my encroachment and extended it to my colleagues…”
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The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN has eulogised Mr. Elisha Yakubu Kurah, SAN who until recently was the Chairman of the NBA Electoral Reform Committee.
In a notice made available to CITY LAWYER, Maikyau stated that the former NBA Kaduna Branch Chairman “was a consummate Bar man, a revered and illustrious member of the Nigerian Bar Associaiton Barnawa Branch.”
Below is the full text of the notice.
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The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola has asked senior lawyers who intend to join the Supreme Court bench to apply on or before Wednesday, June 21, 2023.
In a letter to Nigerian Bar Association President, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN, Justice Ariwoola however noted that such aspirants must be imbued with “Good character and reputation, diligence and hard work, honesty, integrity and sound knowledge of law and consistent adherence to professional ethics.”
Dear Colleagues,
By a letter dated 14 June and delivered to us on 16 June 2023, the Honourable, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, has requested me, as President of the Nigerian Bar Association, to nominate suitably qualified candidates to be recommended for appointment to the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
The available 8 slots are for candidates from: South East (2); South South (1); South West (2); North Central (2) and North West (1).
Members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) who are suitably qualified and are interested in applying for appointment to the Supreme Court, and are from any of the above-listed geopolitical zones are enjoined to submit Expression of Interest to the National Secretariat of the NBA on or before 21 June 2023. All correspondences should be addressed to:
The President Nigerian Bar Association c/o Ayodeji Oni, Esq.
Head, Legal Services Department Nigerian Bar Association National Secretariat Plot 1101 Cadastral Zone A00 Central Business District Abuja.
The expressions of interest should include the following attached thereto:
A copy of the Applicant’s Curriculum Vitae
A copy of the Applicant’s Call to Bar Certificate
Evidence of payment of Bar Practicing Fees (BPF) as and when due, for 10 years preceding the application, inclusive of 2023
Evidence of payment of NBA Branch Dues as and when due, for the past 10 years preceding the application, inclusive of 2023
Evidence of attendance at least 10 Conferences of the NBA
Evidence of membership of Sections or Fora of the NBA
Certified true copies of at least 10 Judgments in contested cases conducted by the Applicant within the 5 years preceding the date of application.
A letter of good standing from the Chairman of the applicant’s Branch, and 5 letters of references (2 of the referees must be Senior Advocates) confirming that the candidate possesses the qualities set out in Rule 4(4)(1)(a), (b) and (d) of the National judicial Council Guidelines for the Appointment of Judicial Officers for Superior Courts of Record as reproduced hereunder:
“In all cases:
Good character and reputation, diligence and hard work, honesty, integrity and sound knowledge of law and consistent adherence to professional ethics;
As may be applicable:
Active successful practice at the Bar, including satisfactory presentation of cases in Court as a Legal Practitioner either in private practice or as a Legal Officer in any Public Service; Credible record of teaching law, legal research in a reputable University and publication of legal works…”
Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN PRESIDENT
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The Nigerian Bar Association Lagos branch on Friday said 80 percent of young lawyers who graduate from Law School every year end up in Lagos as the commercial hub of Nigeria.
It said that it was important for the Lagos Island NBA branch to train them properly, mentor them, and equip them properly for the profession they were going to join.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday held at Folashade Alli & Associates Chambers, Ikoyi Lagos state, the Chairman of NBA Lagos Branch, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna said they were going to induct them into the young lawyers’ programme, as that will give them an opportunity to welcome them into their fold and tell them how to navigate to become great lawyers.
Uwanna stated that out of the 5000 lawyers who graduate from the Nigerian Law School every year, 80 percent end up in Lagos and most of them join NBA Lagos Branch. He stated that because the branch is passionate about mentorship of young lawyers, it established he New Wig Induction Training programme.
He spoke while briefing newsmen on the activities for the forthcoming NBA Lagos Branch Law Week holding from Monday through Friday, June 23 with the theme, “Facing the Future: Law in a Globalised Economy”.
“NBA Lagos branch over the years had cultivated this tradition that has taken it further to have a Law Week every year and our Law Week is the intellectual festival for our branch members.
“The NBA Lagos branch has over 14,000 members and it’s the biggest branch of the NBA,” he said. “We have robust members who are quite interested in having their intellectual capacity always rejuvenated so they can impact the legal sphere.”
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman 2023 Law Week Planning Committee, Mr. Adewale Adesokan SAN said the programme promises to be engaging as there is an array of intellectuals that would engage in a lot of topics.
According to him, there would be about nine plenary sessions where various topics such as globalised economy, the ease of doing business in Nigeria, regulations of doing business in Nigeria, Data protection law, artificial intelligence transforming the judiciary, and restoration of civil disputes among others would be discussed.
Adesokan stated that it is not in doubt that our nation is on the verge of change and is gripped by anxiety, having just had a change of government following a general election. In the midst of it, there is a consensus that the Nigerian economy needs serious attention.
His words: “The current exchange rate of the naira against major currencies around the world, an inflation rate of approximately 22.4%, and the humongous debt burden of about N77 Trillion left by the last administration, have contributed to created anxiety and apprehension about what lies in the short, medium, and long-term future of the nation and the well-being of its citizens.
“While Nigeria continues to grapple with these issues, the march of science and technology outside the shores of the country has manifested in the evolution of Artificial Intelligence, the advent of cryptocurrency, and other forms of e-money.
“The disruptions created in the world economy by the Russian / Ukraine War, the apprehension around the continued relevance of fossil fuel (which is the source of Nigerian’s major foreign exchange and energy) in the future, and the advancement of e-commerce, have all combined to throw up fresh challenges to the Nigerian nation and its new leaders.
“The Legal Profession is at the forefront of those reckoned as leaders and policy influencers in Nigeria today. As newly elected leaders settle into the business of governance, the plenary sessions of the Law Week of The Premier Branch offer a distinct opportunity for the legal profession to take its rightful place in the interrogation of these all-important issues and proffer practical solutions, not just for government at all levels, but all other Stakeholders in the Nigerian nation.”
Vice Chairman and host of the press conference, Folashade Alli said it is a time of networking where older members of the branch will also have the opportunity to mentor the younger ones.
According to Alli, who would be moderating one of the plenary sessions during the Law Week, “Some of us are getting old, the younger ones need to get closer to us. It is a mentoring season, a time of socials, networking. We have a guest artiste, if you come, you’ll find out who it is. We are going to dance. It’s a formal event and we also have loads of gifts we are giving out at the raffle draw.
“And the good thing is we are going back to our alma mater, Law School – so people can see what Law School is and the fact what we need to improve the Law School. We need all lawyers to realize that this is the school that taught us years ago and they need money, more funding; so we are going back to see how we can also help”.
The Vice Chairman of the 2023 Law Week Planning Committee, Dr. Adesola Falaiye said that this year’s conference would be an improvement on previous years’ event. She urged participants to come expectant, and reiterated the fact that the conference was a hybrid event.
The Vice Chairperson, NBA Lagos Branch, Mrs. Abiye Tam-George thanked members of the planning committee for all the activities they have lined up and wished everyone an enjoyable conference.
* L-R Shola Soyele (Chairperson of the Media & Publicity Sub-Committee of the LWPC), Olaide Ajewole (Secretary, Social and Entertainment Sub-Committee of the LWPC), Mrs. Carol Obi (Branch Treasure & Ex-Officio of the LWPC), Dr. Adesola Falaiye (Vice Chairperson, LWPC), Mr. Adewale Adesokan SAN (Chairman LWPC), Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna (Chairman, NBA Lagos Branch), Mrs. Abiye Tam-George (Vice Chairperson, NBA Lagos Branch), Mrs. Folashade Alli (Vice Chairperson, LWPC), Ms. Esther Jimoh (Treasurer, Budget & Finance Sub-Committee, LWPC), Mr. Elo Adhekpukoli (Publicity Secretary, NBA Lagos Branch & Ex-Officio member of the LWPC) & Mr. Justice John (Secretary, Media & Publicity Sub-Committee, LWPC)
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More senior lawyers have thrown their weight behind Mr. Emuobonuvie Majemite, a Partner at PUNUKA Attorneys and Solicitors, in his quest to clinch the post of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Lagos Branch Secretary in the forthcoming branch elections.
They include Messrs Tolulope Aderemi, a Partner at Perchstone and Graeys as well as Mr. Fola Alade, Principal Partner at FOTEFA Partners LP.
In his endorsement message, Aderemi wrote: “The Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), otherwise known as ‘the Premier Bar’, is primus inter pares. The office of the Scribe must therefore be occupied by a quintessential legal practitioner and administrator. I believe Emuobonuvie Majemite squarely fits this role and should be given the opportunity to serve as Secretary of the Premier Branch. I hereby endorse him.”
On his part, Alada wrote: “Majemite is a real gentleman, very knowledgeable and a core professional . He is also extremely intelligent and compassionate. Going through his manifesto, he is my preferred candidate for the position of Secretary as I believe he would bring an innovative service to the bar. Without hesitation , I give Majemite my highest recommendation.”
The Elections hold on Tuesday, June 27, 2023.
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Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN has made good his vow to petition the Inspector General of Police and Chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate Senator Adamu Muhammad Bulkachuwa for his comments during the Senate valedictory session last Saturday.
In an update obtained by CITY LAWYER, Maikyau noted that he has “written letters to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), requesting for the immediate investigation and prosecution of Senator Adamu Muhammad Bulkachuwa for the admissions/confessions he made in his valedictory remarks.”
Promising to keep NBA members “posted on further developments in the matter,” Maikyau wrote: “I thank you all for the support as we continue with our fight for the enthronement of the rule of law and the defence of the integrity and independence of the Judiciary in Nigeria. We must always remember that:
“We lawyers are a dangerous breed; we challenge, we refuse to let anarchy and unfairness and inequity reign. We stand in the gap. We refuse to be silent. We fight, not with arms, but with words. We use the law as our weapon, and we wield it with skill and determination. We must teach the next generation to do the same… you play a central role in setting the parameters for the next generation of lawyers who will have the formidable task of safeguarding the rule of law in the new and challenging context in which we now live.” (Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland KC).”
Bulkachuwa has come under severe criticisms over his revelation that he procured his spouse and former Court of Appeal President, Justice Zainab Adamu Bulkachuwa to allegedly influence certain cases.
Both the NBA and the National Judicial Council (NJC) have condemned the leaks.
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The Surulere Lawyers Forum has thrown its weight behind Mr. Kelechukwu Uzoka for the position of Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch.
Recognizing his “exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment to the legal profession,” the SLF at its meeting last Wednesday specially recognized and unanimously endorsed Uzoka for the post.
A longstanding member of the forum, Uzoka presented his vision for #ElevatingEfficiency and officially announced his candidacy for the office of the NBA Lagos Branch Secretary. After listening to his presentation, the Forum applauded and unanimously endorsed him fully.
The forum noted that Uzoka brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, particularly in leveraging technology to enhance legal practice, adding that his innovative approach and proficiency in utilizing digital tools have positioned him as a trailblazer in the field.
It was noted that Uzoka’s candidacy promises to usher in a new era of innovation and excellence, adding that “His dynamic leadership, coupled with his technological expertise, positions him as a catalyst for positive change within the legal community.”
It was observed that the endorsement by Surulere Lawyers Forum reflects the trust and confidence placed in Uzoka’s leadership abilities and his commitment to advancing the legal profession. With a manifesto themed #ElevatingEfficiency, Kelechukwu aims to introduce transformative practices, foster inclusivity, and champion the rights and interests of legal practitioners.
Uzoka expressed gratitude to the Forum “for the overwhelming support” and pledged to work tirelessly to ensure that his vision becomes a reality. He emphasized his unwavering commitment to transparency, efficiency, and leveraging technology for the betterment of the legal community.
* Uzoka in a warm handshake with former NBA Lagos Branch Secretary, Mr. Seth Amaefule …. at the monthly meeting
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The quest by Mr. Emuobonuvie Majemite, a Partner at PUNUKA Attorneys and Solicitors, to clinch the coveted post of Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch received a major boost yesterday with his endorsement by foremost chartered arbitrator, Mrs. Dorothy Ufot SAN.
Throwing her weight behind Majemite, the leading senior advocate wrote:
“Mr. Emuobonuvie Majemite is a Partner at PUNUKA Attorneys and Solicitors, an ardent member firm of the Arbitration and ADR Commission of the International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria. I am aware that he heads the Arbitration and ADR practice group in his firm.
“Mr. Majemite has served selflessly in the 2022 and 2023 conference planning committees of the ICC Africa Conference on International Arbitration, juggling duties ranging from publicity to session coordination to logistics.
“I opine that he will be a strong asset to the Bar. I am confident of his ability and I endorse him for Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos Branch.”
The NBA Lagos Branch Election is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, June 27, 2023.
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The Surulere Lawyers’ Forum (SLF) at its monthly general meeting held last Wednesday endorsed Esther Ifeoma Jimoh as its sole candidate for the office of Vice Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch. The NBA Lagos Branch Election is scheduled to hold on Tuesday, June 27, 2023.
The Chairman of the Forum, Prince Eddy Njoku, while making this announcement, expressed his gratitude to Esther, who he said “has been a strong, active, and committed financial member of the Forum for many years, participating in all the activities of the Forum and rising to the occasion whenever the Forum requires her assistance in any area.”
He thanked her “for single-handedly hosting the March 2023 meeting of the Forum in celebration of your birthday which took place during that month and for all that you are doing for humanity,” adding that posterity will record her efforts in serving the Bar.
Esther is a member of NBA Lagos Branch Human Rights Committee among other committees. She is also a member of NBA Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL), NBA Women Forum, and International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) among other professional memberships within and outside the NBA.
Esther is adjudged as a committed member of the NBA Lagos Branch. Her Curriculum Vitae, Manifesto & Campaign Materials for the post of the Vice Chairman can be accessed via the official election link at https://nbalagosdecides.com.ng/esther-ifeoma-jimoh/.
* Esther speaking at the SLF Monthly Meeting …. recently
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The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference Planning Committee, Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN has commended the Law Officers Association of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom Chapter on its “LOAN Week.”
In a statement obtained by CITY LAWYER, the former NBA General Secretary noted that “The theme of this year’s event which is ‘The Rule of Law as an imperative for sustainable development: The role of law officers’ is most appropriate.”
He added that “This is particularly so considering that the nation and most states of the federation are in the process of leadership transition from one administration to another.”
Meanwhile, the Bar Leader has also felicitated with the leadership and members of NBA Barnawa Branch on their Law Week.
In another statement, he wrote: “On Monday 12th of June, 2023, I had the privilege of attending the opening ceremony for the Annual Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association, Barnawa Branch.
“I congratulate the Chairman and Members of the Executive Council, Members of the Law Week planning committee and the entirety of our colleagues at the branch for the successful hosting of this year’s law week.”
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The Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it is the responsibility of the National Judicial Council (NJC) to decide whether it will investigate the tenure of former Court of Appeal President, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa.
Asked if the EFCC was investigating the former judge, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, the spokesperson for the anti-graft agency directed Peoples Gazette to the NJC.
“I simply went back to take a look at the video you are talking about,” Mr. Uwujaren said. “From what I saw there and what I heard, the question you asked me should be directed to the National Judicial Council. They are the ones in charge of judges and their actions.”
Justice Bukachuwa was president of the Appeal Court between April 2014 to March 2020. Her 83-year-old politician husband, who represented Bauchi North in the ninth Senate, in his valedictory speech revealed how she allegedly used her position to “help” his colleagues.
“I want to thank, particularly, my wife, whose freedom I encroached while she was in office,” Senator Bulkachuwa said. “She has been very tolerant and accepted my encroachment and extended her help to my colleagues.”
Ahmad Lawan, who presided over the valedictory session as then Senate President, interrupted Senator Bulkachuwa, stopping him from making further revelations. “Distinguished, I don’t think this is a good idea going this direction,” Lawan said, switching off Bulkachuwa’s microphone.
Soji Oye, spokesperson for the Nigerian Judicial Council, could not be immediately reached for comments on Wednesday.
However, Saadatu Musa, spokesperson for the Appeal Court, promised to call The Gazette back when asked if the Appeal Court would investigate its former president, Justice Bulkachuwa.
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Suspended Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is now in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
According to a press statement seen by CITY LAWYER, the embattled erstwhile helmsman of the anti-graft arrived the DSS facility upon invitation by the secret police.
CITY LAWYER recalls that Bawa was suspended by President Bola Tinubu over “weighty” allegations of abuse of office levelled against him. He was “directed to immediately handover the affairs of his office to the Director, Operations in the Commission, who will oversee the affairs of the Office of the Chairman of the Commission pending the conclusion of the investigation.”
Bawa succeeded former EFCC Chairman Ibrahim Magu who was also suspended and underwent trial on alleged diversion of recovered government’s assets.
The Buhari Presidency said Magu’s suspension is to “allow for unhindered inquiry” by the panel investigating allegations of corruption during his tenure as EFCC chairman. Magu had denied all allegations against him.
The outcome of the President Buhari’s enquiry into Magu’s tenure as EFCC chairman has not been made public two years after his removal from office.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has invited Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, the suspended Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Bawa arrived a few hours ago. The invitation relates to some investigative activities concerning him.
Peter Afunanya PhD fsi Public Relations Officer Department of State Services National Headquarters Abuja 14th June, 2023
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The National Judicial Council (NJC) has condemned the sensational remarks by Senator Adamu Muhammad Bulkachuwa during the valedictory session held by the Senate last Monday.
The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN made the position of the regulatory body known in a statement made available to CITY LAWYER. Senator Bulkachuwa is the spouse of former Court of Appeal President, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa.
Maikyau also urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) “to immediately invite Senator Ahmad Muhammad Bulkachuwa for interrogation and proceed to prosecute him accordingly,” adding that “I shall write a letter to both the IGP and the ICPC Chairman in this respect.”
Saying that he reported the embattled senator’s conduct to the NJC during its meeting today, Maikyau wrote: “At the 102nd meeting of the National Judicial Council (NJC) held today, 14 June 2023, I took the liberty of my membership of the Council to complain about the rather disgusting and despicable conduct of Senator Bulkachuwa, which was a direct attack on the integrity of the Judiciary. The NJC condemned the actions of the Senator in the strongest terms as an affront on the integrity and independence of the Judiciary.”
The NBA President noted that notwithstanding interruptions by erstwhile Senate President Ahmad Lawan, “given the office held by his (Bulkachuwa’s) wife which he clearly mentioned in his remarks, no one would be left in doubt as to the sort of help he either succeeded or did not succeed in securing for his colleagues, with whom he had since become good friends and still remain good friends.”
Maikyau vowed that the statements by Bulkachuwa “were clearly admissions by the Senator, that he did attempt to, and/or actually perverted the course of justice/interfered with due administration of justice, which makes him liable to be investigated and prosecuted even on his admission. That this came with a huge negative impact on the integrity and the independence of the Judiciary can only be an understatement.”
He however stated that while the NBA will at all times rise to the defence of the honour, integrity and independence of the judiciary, “we shall not hesitate to take on anyone, either within or outside the legal profession, who takes steps or makes statements that are capable of undermining the independence of the judiciary and the impartiality judicial processes.”
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Some lawyers have petitioned the Lagos State Chief Judge, Justice Kazeem Alogba over the alleged role of two court sheriffs in connection with a property auction by Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).
Titled “Appeal to investigate Sheriff Jinadu Mohammed & Deputy Sheriff Samuel Oniagba for perjury and fraudulent misrepresentation of facts to the Magistrates Court 5 sitting at Ajegunle, presided over by his Honour, N. A. Layeni, Esq. (Magistrate),” the petition was signed by Mr. Femi Dodo of Dodo Tafari (Legal Practitioners).
The lawyers stated that their clients – Messrs Abubakar Hammed, Chukwuma Christian, Uche Uwaezuoke and Jacob Okon – were tenants and residents of a property at Olodi, Apapa “when the property was taken over by AMCON and listed for sale.”
According to the lawyers, “Our client bided (sic) for the property and made an initial offer of N64,000,000.00 (sixty four million naira), which attracted AMCON’s response, stating that the offer was low and requested for an upward review of our offer for the property,”
The lawyers stated that though the petitioners raised their bid to N100,000,000, they never heard from AMCON again, only to hear that the property had been auctioned to one Chigozie Henry Aguguo for the sum of N80,100,000 (Eighty million and one hundred thousand naira only).
Continuing, the lawyers wrote: “When our client got to know about the sale price, our client briefed us to challenge the sale and we filed an action against AMCON, the Auctioneer, the bidders and the said Mr. Henry Aguguo which is still pending before Hon. Justice Allagoa of the Federal High Court, Lagos.
“While we were defending the seven (7) suits for recovery of possession filed by AMCON, Mr. Chigozie Henry Aguguo proceeded to SECRETLY file another suit with No. MCA/2439/2022 before the Apapa Magistrates Court to recover the same premises, wherein he described our clients as “UNKNOWN OCCUPIERS” and connived with Sherriff Jinadu Mohamed, who FRAUDULENTLY deposed to affidavits of service without actually pasting the originating processes on the premises, in order to spring up a surprise of execution of Judgment on our clients.”
“After fraudulently obtaining Judgment, Mr. Chigozie Henry Aguguo filed a motion to force open the premises,” the lawyers wrote, adding that “the DEPUTY SHERRIFF SAMUEL ONIAGBA fraudulently deposed to an affidavit stating that our clients have locked the doors to the premises, despite the fact that our clients were living in the premises until the day the same DEPUTY SHERRIFF SAMUEL ONIAGBA came to execute the judgment against our clients.”
Noting that they had filed an action to set aside the judgment, the lawyers urged Justice Alogba “to investigate this complaint and recommend all person (sic) found wanting for appropriate disciplinary sanctions and prosecution for perjury.”
The Lagos State Judiciary and AMCON are yet to respond to the allegations.
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The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL), Dr. Monday Ubani has said that the eagerly awaited SPIDEL Annual Conference will beam a searchlight on the nation’s Judiciary especially as it concerns election petitions arising from the recent National Elections.
Ubani stated this during a Press Conference at NBA Ikeja Bar Centre to herald the Annual Conference.
According to Ubani who is also a leading human rights activist, “We believe that our Guest Speakers will adequately interrogate the theme of the Conference which bothers on the Judiciary’s intervention in the electoral process. Presently, all eyes are fixed at the various Election Petition tribunals where those who were aggrieved with the outcome of the elections are ventilating their grievances lawfully and seeking judicial redress.”
Below is the full text of the press statement.
PRESS CONFERENCE OF NBA-SPIDEL ON ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN IKEJA, LAGOS FROM JUNE 20-23, 2023
Gentlemen of the Press
This press conference is being held today to herald the forthcoming Annual Conference of the NBA Section on Public Intetest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) billed to take place at Citadel Complex, Oregun, Ikeja from June 20 to 23, 2023.
The conference will attract lawyers and judges from various States of the Federation. It promises to be an intellectual feast featuring eminent jurists from the Bar and Bench.
The theme of the conference is “Post-Election Nigeria: The Judiciary in the eye of the storm.” The keynote Speaker is foremost human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana SAN, while the Opening Session will be chaired by former NBA President, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba OON. Instructive, Dr. Agbakoba has the singular honour of being the NBA President who established NBA-SPIDEL during his Presidency. Hon. Justice Amina Augie of the Supreme Court will feature as a Guest Speaker during the Opening Ceremony.
Also expected at the Opening Ceremony are the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Abia State counterpart, Dr. Alex Otti. Senators and House of Representatives members are also expected at the Opening Ceremony.
The technical sessions will witness the presence of leading jurists and speakers such as Prof. Mike Ozekhome SAN, Prof. Pat Utomi, Mr. Austin Alegeh SAN, Chief J-K Gadzama SAN, Prof. Ernest Ojukwu SAN, Mr. Olumide Akpata, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo SAN, NBA President Yakubu Maikyau SAN, Ms. Boma Alabi SAN, Prof. Paul Ananaba SAN, Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN, Mr. Samson Itodo (YIAGA Africa), Mr. Festus Okoye (INEC), Justice Taiwo Taiwo (rtd.), Mr. Tobenna Erojikwe, Ebun Adegboruwa SAN, Prof. Nnamdi Obiaraeri, Mr. Gilbert Tor, Mr. Chukwuka Ikwuazom SAN, among many others too numerous to mention here.
We believe that our Guest Speakers will adequately interrogate the theme of the Conference which bothers on the Judiciary’s intervention in the electoral process. Presently, all eyes are fixed at the various Election Petition tribunals where those who were aggrieved with the outcome of the elections are ventilating their grievances lawfully and seeking judicial redress.
L-R: Mr. Chisom Onuoha, Secretary, Local Organising Committee (LOC), NBA-SPIDEL Annual Conference 2023; Mr. Seyi olawumi, LOC Chairman, Dr. Monday Ubani and Mr. Emeka Nwadioke, Council Member, NBA-SPIDEL … at the event
Our faith in the Judiciary should remain unshaken, as those who deserve justice shall certainly be served with justice without fear or favour. We invite the press to be a part of this conference where this very important topic will be thoroughly diagnosed by these legal giants.
We wish to note that this is last conference of Dr M.O. Ubani as the Chairman of the Section. We especially invite you all, friends of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, to attend and bid him happy farewell.
In addressing matters that touch on the public interest, we applaud the suspension of the Central Bank Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele and urge that his regime be thoroughly investigated for his alleged role in the mismanagement of the economy.
In the same vein, Mr. President is being called upon to look into the scam of “Air Nigeria” which the immediate past Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika perpetrated before his exit. If the assertion by the Managing Director of Nigeria Air, Dayo Olumide, during a Senate hearing that the aircraft said to be for Air Nigeria was merely a chartered flight from Ethiopian Airline to hoodwinkNigerians, we enjoin Mr. President to institute a high-powered panel of investigation to unearth this large-scale scam that has turned Nigeria into a laughing stock in the global aviation community. This matter is a litmus test for the new administration, especially if President Bola Tinubu wants to be seen as desirous of combating corruption in the polity.
The Tinubu Administration is strongly advised to develop a zero tolerance policy towards corruption and mismanagement of public funds. The government must respect the rule of law and avoid executive lawlessness and impunity. These are acts that will bring his administration into collision course with the civil society and human rights community. If the government abides by the rule of law, respects human rights, ensures transparency and accountability as fundamental objectives of state policy, it should be rest assured of tremendous goodwill from majority of the citizens of Nigeria. President Bola Tinubu has a choice to make; may God guide him to make the right choice.
On the removal of fuel subsidy, we note that though majority of Nigerians do not understand the huge scam that subsidy represents in the oil sector, the process and procedure for the removal was faulty. This has occasioned severe consequences and taken a toll on the hapless citizens who are always the victims of such government policies that are not well thought out. We welcome efforts by the government amid consultations to birth palliatives aimed at alleviating the harshness of the sudden removal. This should have preceded the announcement of the removal of subsidy. Sadly, that was not the case.
Mr. President must be told in clear terms that Nigerians are groaning in pains, especially with the sudden removal of the fuel subsidy. Salary increase for civil servants – whose population is infinitesimal compared to millions that are outside government employment – will not be enough to solve the present crisis. More drastic and well-thought-out economic packages should be put in place to cushion the harsh effects of the new policy.
Again, Mr. President must seek wisdom and the right kind of advice to navigate out of the present quagmire the country has found itself. I do not envy him at this time.
We thank the former Attorney General of Lagos State, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo SAN for being a Bar-man in deed. His assistance towards the success of the forthcoming Annual Conference is well appreciated. We also appreciate the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon Justice Kazeem Alogba for his commitment to the success of the forthcoming conference. We thank His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his kind hospitality.
We shall be welcoming all members of the Bar and Bench from across the country to this very important conference kick starting from the 20th of June, 2023. They are invited to come and enjoy the beauty of Nigeria’s Centre of Excellence, especially as the conference is laced with many fun events.
This is Lagos! We do not welcome anyone to Lagos, we announce Lagos with pride because we are sure of the goodies awaiting our guests! See you from 20th of June.
Dr. Monday O. Ubani NBA-SPIDEL Chairman
Mr. Okey Ohagba Chairman, Conference Planning Committee.
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There has been palpable controversy on the power of Nigeria’s President to suspend an incumbent Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
This came on the heels of the suspension of erstwhile CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over alleged infractions.
CITY LAWYER has obtained a certified copy of the 93-page judgment of the Federal High Court on a lawsuit brought by one-time CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi over his suspension by former President Goodluck Jonathan. Aside from Jonathan who was sued as the 1st Defendant, the Attorney General of the Federation and Inspector General of Police were joined as 2nd and 3rd defendants.
While Sanusi was represented by Mr. Kola Awodein SAN as Lead Counsel, the 1st Defendant was represented by Prof. Fabian Ajogwu SAN as Lead Counsel. The Lead Counsel for the 2nd Defendant was Chief Mike Ozekhome SAN while Chief Solomon Umoh SAN led the legal team for the 3rd Defendant.
Delivering judgment in the case, Justice Gabriel Kolawole held that the kernel of the lawsuit was whether the President “has the vires to take and convey the decision in ‘Exhibit KA2’ by which the Plaintiff was suspended from office as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria pending the investigation of allegations which the said ‘Exhibit KA2’ describes as ‘far reaching breaches.’”
Justice Kolawole held that “I am wondering if it turns out that the first Defendant lacks the statutory or constitutional power to take the decision conveyed in ‘Exhibit KA2’ by which the Plaintiff was suspended from office as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, whether the weighty nature of the allegations which informed the decision in ‘Exhibit KA2’ will avail to legalize the said decision.”
The court noted that the Plaintiff’s counsel “strategically shifted to an alternative position in the event that the ‘hard line’ submissions canvassed that there is no power vested in the 1st Defendant by which he could suspend the Plaintiff as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria by arguing that, ‘assuming there is any such power (which is wholly denied) we submit that that power, given the provisions of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, can only be exercised subject to 2/3 majority of the Senate.”
Construing the status of the CBN, Justice Kolawole held that “The Central Bank of Nigeria was not created pursuant to the Constitution. It was not mentioned, even as a ‘juristic person’ in the whole of the Constitution. The Central Bank of Nigeria’s name only featured in Section 251(1)(d) of CFRN 1999 as Amended.”
The court further held that although the CBN Governor is a “public officer” in the public service of the federation, “the Office of Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria was neither created nor established or even recognized by the CFRN 1999 As Amended.”
Justice Kolawole held that insofar as the appointment of the CBN Governor lacks “constitutional status” or “flavor,” “it is to be taken as one of master/servant which is still cognizable by the National Industrial Court who has not been expressly or impliedly barred from entertaining cases involving the Federal Government or any of its agencies.”
He also held that the CBN is an “Agency” of the Federal Government of Nigeria, adding that “all its employees including the Plaintiff can only litigate issues in relation to their contract of appointments or employment at the National Industrial Court which from 4/3/11 upon the commencement of the 3rd Alteration Act, 2010 as an amendment to the CFRN 1999 As Amended (sic).”
Justice Kolawole held that the plaintiff had not furnished the court with any provisions of the Constitution relating to his appointment as CBN Governor which the court would consider in granting the reliefs sought, adding that the plaintiff’s contract of appointment is “made in furtherance to the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.”
The court held that since the plaintiff’s contract of appointment “was not made pursuant to any provision of the Constitution in a way as to accord it a ‘constitutional status’ or ‘flavour,’ the Plaintiff can hardly seek to invoke the judicial powers of the Federal High Court in the exercise of its interpretative jurisdiction as prescribed in Section 251(1)(q) of the CFRN, 1999 As Amended.”
Justice Kolawole held that “the Federal High Court has no jurisdiction to entertain the Plaintiff’s cause of action as an employee of a ‘statutory body.’ ie. the Central Bank of Nigeria.” He however held that “it will be inappropriate for me to delve into the Plaintiff’s case on the merit,” adding that such would be prejudicial to the parties and the National Industrial Court. He then transferred the matter the National Industrial Court for adjudication.
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The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP) has commenced registration for its Annual Conference holding at Abuja from July 16 to July 19, 2023.
CITY LAWYER gathered that the conference will hold at the NBA National Secretariat (NBA House), Abuja with the theme, “Legal Practice Without Borders.”
Announcing the kick-off of the registration process, the Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee (CPC), Mr. Paul Harris Ogbole SAN urged potential delegates to take advantage of the Early Bird window to register for the eagerly awaited conference.
He stated that the Early Bird window will run from June 9 to June 26, 2023, adding that Late Registration will commence from June 27 to July 12, 2023.
According to the senior lawyer, “Nigerian lawyers must be equipped to play at international level. This cannot be achieved without colleagues being taught the rules and practice of cross-border practice in the daily evolving global village.” He urged lawyers to “take advantage of this unique opportunity to equip themselves with knowledge that will stand them out in the global village.”
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Today has been declared democracy day in honor of June 12 1993, the most credible and freest presidential elections ever conducted in Nigeria. It was elections where Nigerians of all shades of opinions voted freely for late Chief MKO Abiola and Amb Babagana Kingibe under the Social Democratic Party SDP.
As usual Nigerian anti-Democratic forces, the evil minded, the principalities and powers who have held Nigerians and Nigeria in the jugular did not allow that freest choice of Nigerians to stand. The election was nullified by military junta led by General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.
As with everything in Nigeria we play politics with everything including human life. Symbolically today June 12 has been declared Democracy Day by those who claimed to be democrats and public holidays have been so declared. President Mohammad Buhari declared it Democracy Day and declared public holidays to be marking it.
Good as it is to recognize what is good and celebrating it, as it appears Nigerian Government is doing, it is necessary to ask probing questions whether after June 12 annulment of the freest and best elections Nigerian democracy is being built on the foundation of democracy laid by the experience of June 12 1993 elections. I do not think so.
For me and many Nigerians the democratic experiment since June 12 annulment has been from bad to worst. Truth be told many of our politicians and political actors parading in the corridors of powers since June 12 annulment are either democratic despots or outright democratic terrorists who have terrorized Nigerians and Nigerian society into political slavery and political submissions based on their whims and caprices.
For me and many well meaning Nigerians politicians have thrown the basic tenets of democracy overboard in Nigeria and have embraced money bags democratic tyranny and coercion to the detriment of sovereignty of the people. Political hygiene is polluted and corruption Nigeria Plc have all replaced the much cherished democratic values where the will of the people is the most significant indices of good democracy.
Today as we celebrate that freest and most credible elections of June 12, even the actors who will be celebrating Democracy Day today know that they have gradually murdered democracy in Nigeria. There is no doubt and Nigerians are aware that many of our politicians and political actors in the corridors of power did not come to power by democratic means. They forced themselves on Nigerians.
Those of them who did not win elections and bought their ways to power know themselves. The Independent National Electoral Commission need to learn many lessons from the way June 12 elections were conducted. Nigerians are tired of charade called elections in Nigeria.
Everyone knows that democracy has been contaminated by almost incurable political viruses of corruption and terrorism in all states. Those in power in Nigeria are political emperors who determined who succeed them. Political parties are not having internal democracy. Political impositions have replaced parties primaries in almost all the political parties. These politicians know the truth.
Our compromised INEC is impari delicto in this regards. INEC that has constitutional duties and responsibilities to instill political sanity in our otherwise political rascality has been castrated in the performances of statutory and constitutional functions that today democracy exists only in name and not in practice in Nigeria. For me what we have in Nigeria in the name of democracy is just civilian militarized government.
There is no doubt that there are many people at the corridors of power in Nigeria of today who are celebrating Democracy Day that did not come to power by means of democracy. Democracy as we know is government of the people by the people and for the people. Inherent in this is the fact that sovereignty belongs to the people.
People determine those they want to lead them. But in our own brand of democracy those we the people don’t want manipulate electoral processes to lord over us. Today we have people who have no respect for due process and democratic rules claiming to be democrats and are lording over us. Nigerians are just political slaves in the hands of tiny political despots. That is own democracy.
As we remember June 12 in the name of Democracy Day today I appeal to Nigerians politicians to turn over a new leaf. We have have had enough of democratic despotism and terrorism. Nigerians love democracy and have always loved to so exercise their sovereignty. But politicians and political actors have always on altar of primordial selfish interest trampled upon and truncated the will of the people. I appeal to Nigerian politicians to all true democracy prevail in Nigeria.
That is the only way we can have good governance and government that is accountable and responsible to the people. The sad reality is that Nigeria as at today as we celebrate Democracy Day, does not have democracy in the true sense of the word. Those who forced themselves on us or those who forced others on us know the truth. Conscience is an open wound and only truth can heal it. Let truth be told. Happy Democracy Day Nigerians. 12:6:2023
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STATEMENT OF THE NIGERIAN LAW SOCIETY ON THE OCCASION OF THE JUNE 12, DEMOCRACY DAY CELEBRATION
The Nigerian Law Society (NLS) extends heartfelt greetings on the occasion of the June 12 Democracy Day celebrations. This auspicious day holds profound significance as we commemorate the resilience and unwavering spirit of our nation’s democratic journey.
As we reflect on the milestones covered and the progress achieved, let us remember the sacrifices made by countless individuals who dedicated their lives to the pursuit of freedom, justice, and democratic ideals. Their unwavering commitment has shaped the democratic landscape we cherish today.
Democracy stands as the cornerstone of our society, empowering every Nigerian with the rights and freedoms that form the bedrock of a just and inclusive nation. It is a time to celebrate the power of the people, whose collective voice shapes the destiny of our great nation.
On this occasion, the NLS reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting justice, and safeguarding the rights and interests of all Nigerians. We stand firm in our dedication to fostering excellence in legal practice, enhancing legal education and professional development, and advocating for reforms that strengthen our legal system.
Let us also recognize the challenges that lie ahead and the work that remains to be done. Together, we must strive for a Nigeria where justice is accessible to all, where the rule of law is upheld without compromise, and where the rights of every citizen are protected.
As we celebrate Democracy Day, let us unite in our shared vision for a prosperous and harmonious Nigeria. May this day inspire us to redouble our efforts in building a nation that embodies the true spirit of democracy, where every citizen can flourish and contribute to the collective growth of our beloved country.
The Nigerian Law Society extends warm wishes to all Nigerians on this momentous occasion.
Happy Democracy Day!
Yours faithfully,
Kunle Ogunba SAN President, Nigerian Law Society
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