GADZAMA Archives - CITY LAWYER MAGAZINE

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Aug 19, 2022
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MAIKYAU WINS, AS NBA APPEALS C’TE WINDS UP, SUBMITS REPORT

The last hurdle on the path of Nigerian Bar Association President-elect, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN being sworn-in as the next NBA President has been cleared, with the winding up of the appeals process.

CITY LAWYER recalls that Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN, who was declared runner-up in the elections, had queried the outcome of the election, though he vowed not to file any petition unless the NBA National Appeals Committee (NBA-NEAC) was ratified by the NBA National Executive Council before commencing its work and an audit of the election conducted.

But an unimpeachable source at NBA House told CITY LAWYER that the Appeals Committee has wound up its activities, adding that “The committee has submitted its report.” This has foreclosed the filing of any appeal on the election.

It is recalled that NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata had during the week dissolved all Standing Committees, leaving only the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA) and the Technical Committee on Conference Planning (TCCP) which is spearheading the forthcoming NBA Annual General Conference (AGC).

While members of the first NBA-NEAC LED BY Mrs. Funmi Roberts had resigned en masse following allegations of bias by the Gadzama Campaign Team against some of its members, another committee was quickly constituted to deal with any petitions arising from the 2022 NBA Elections.

Led by former Attorney-General & Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi SAN, the committee comprised of former NBA President and Board of Trustees Chairman, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba SAN; Cecilia Madueke (Secretary); Mr. Olumide Babalola (Counsel) and Mr. Rotimi Ogunyemi (Resident IT Expert).

The committee had on August 5, 2022 issued guidelines for filing of petitions, pegging the deadline at 7 days. The appeal window lapsed on August 12, 2022. There are strong indications that the committee did not receive any appeal on the election.

CITY LAWYER reliably gathered that the NBA leadership will present the committee and its report to the NBA-NEC for ratification.

Maikyau was declared winner of the NBA presidential election with 22,342 votes while Gadzama polled 10,842 to become runner-up. Immediate past NBA General Secretary, Mr. Jonathan Taidi garnered 1380 votes to place third.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Aug 18, 2022
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GADZAMA IS KEYNOTE SPEAKER, MENTORS PREMIERE ACADEMY GRADUANDS

The President of Vox Populi Foundation, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN, was privileged to be invited as the Keynote Speaker at the 13th Graduation Ceremony of Premiere Academy at Lugbe, Abuja.

While delivering his speech on the theme, “Managing my Success”, Gadzama stated that he felt very honoured to have the rare privilege of not just lending his voice to the theme of this year’s graduation ceremony, but also sharing his personal success story with young minds and prospects beaming with life’s vigour.

Gadzama stated that beyond words, the theme, “Managing My Success” evokes a great deal of reflection on the life patterns, principles, relationships, strategies and focus needed to attain a certain level of success, maintain same and grow exponentially over some time.

He stated that in defining success, there are a few things an individual must know which he outlined as follows: The person one aspires to be? Feasible steps to take towards becoming that person?

Gadzama stated that to achieve and maintain success, one needs passion, hard work, determination, self-discipline, planning and faith in God. Further, he stated that one thing which kept him through his life’s journey was his resilience to never give up on the visions he had. Today, he is grateful to God that He has in his infinite mercy allowed him to attain his current level of success.

He stated that he would like to think that this stage of his career is synonymous with the icing on the cake and that managing success is more difficult than its attainment.

For him, the same virtues that are responsible for the attainment of success are the same virtues which help in the management of these successes. This is why he has continued to work relentlessly to maintain excellence in the legal profession.

He noted that other than the factors earlier highlighted, good professional and personal relationships are very much instrumental in managing success.

In his concluding remarks, Gadzama admonished young persons by stating that “Young persons must know that even after applying these principles and doing all that should be done, they ought to be patient with themselves and the process before the desired goals come to fruition”.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Aug 13, 2022
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GADZAMA TO AKPATA: ‘I WON’T FILE PETITION AGAINST MAIKYAU UNTIL ….’

The last has not been heard about the recent Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Elections as erstwhile presidential candidate, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has vowed not to file any petition at the reconstituted NBA National Election Appeal Committee (NBA-NEAC) unless the reconstitution is ratified by NBA National Executive Council.

In a letter dated August 11, 2022 and made available to CITY LAWYER, Gadzama’s Campaign Organisation demanded “That the instant reconstitution of the NBA-NEAC be ratified by the NBA-NEC in accordance with S.14 (3)(i) of the NBA Constitution, as a condition-precedent to assuming office and duly executing its functions within the mandate of the NBA Constitution.”

Signed by Chief Chukwudi Oli, Director-General of Joe-Kyari Gadzama Campaign Team, and copied to the Chairman and Members of NBA-NEAC, Gadzama also asked “That an independent forensic audit of the NBA National elections of July 16, 2022, including but not limited to election logs, be mandated and conducted forthwith particularly that of the presidential election.”

The Campaign Organisation also decried the “levity visited upon the petition dated 6th May, 2022 (“the Petition”) hereto attached as “Annexure 3”, addressed to the ECNBA by Mr. Tochukwu E. Ohazuruike,” saying it “is a cause for grave concern.”

According to the Organisation, “The Petition was not considered on its merit and this leaves much to be desired. Of substance, the Petition was hinged on the ground that one of the NBA presidential candidates, Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN is not constitutionally qualified to contest for the office of President in the 2022 NBA National Officers’ election due to his failure to meet the eligibility criteria of not less than two years membership of NEC at the time of nomination, mandatorily required under section 9(3)(c)(i) of the Constitution and page 1 of the ECNBA’s Preliminary Notice of Election dated 17th day of March, 2022. The Petition also made copious references to verifiable minutes of NEC meetings and signed attendance lists within the period of 2018 to 2020, confirming that Mr. Maikyau, SAN was absent for three consecutive meetings by virtue of which he automatically lost NEC membership at the time under reference pursuant to section 8(8) of the Constitution. And that such period of Mr. Maikyau’s non-membership of NEC cannot be reckoned with for purposes of computation of time as NEC member for his nomination, qualification and participation in the 2022 NBA National Officers’ election, held on the 16th day of July, 2022.

“The Petition also averred that assuming that Mr. Maikyau had not absented from three consecutive meetings under the Mr. Olumide Akpata led NBA dispensation, Mr. Maikyau, SAN has still not and could not have met the NEC eligibility criteria of not less than two years between the timeframe of August, 2020 to the 15th April, 2022 deadline for nomination of candidates which is barely 20 months and thus less than the requisite two years. Thus, the NEC membership of Mr. Maikyau, SAN under the Olumide Akpata led NBA does not also meet the minimum two years’ requirement of NEC membership as stipulated in the Constitution.

“The issues raised in the said Petition, prima facie, are plausible grounds for disqualification and their veracity should have been explored and not waived aside on the basis of technicality. This is more so considering that the response given by Mr. Y.C. Maikyau, SAN (Annexure 4 attached hereto) is a confirmation/admission that, indeed, he was absent from three consecutive NBA-NEC meetings.

“Furthermore, having due regard to paragraph 2.2(d) of the second schedule to the NBA Constitution, an aspirant to the Office of the Presidency of the NBA has to be from a section/geo-political zone in the geographical zone where the Presidency is zoned, in this case the North for 2022 NBA election, in compliance with the constitutional rotation requirement. Owing to the fact that previous Presidents of the NBA have emerged from the North West and North Central geopolitical zones of the Northern Zone in times past, the import of section 9(3) of the Constitution and paragraph 2.2(d) of the second schedule of the Constitution on the 2022 NBA general election is that it is only the North Eastern geographical zone in the North that is yet to produce the NBA President, and therefore only candidates from the North East are eligible to contest the 2022 NBA Presidential election in view of the rotational principle enshrined in paragraph 2.2(d) of the second schedule to the Constitution. This line of thinking represents the clear and mandatory provision of the Constitution.”

The Campaign Organisation stated that “There is therefore a clear testimony of the incompleteness of the electoral process, which makes it unfair, unfree, non-transparent and non-credible.”

It stated that “While it presently seems that the legal profession in Nigeria is sitting gingerly on a ticking time-bomb, may I ultimately reiterate that the leadership of the Bar has an all-important statutory, legal, professional and moral duty to ensure the protection, promotion and defence of the unity, indivisibility and indissolubility of the Bar in Nigeria which has been glaringly bedevilled by too many a crisis in recent times.”

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Aug 02, 2022
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MAIKYAU TO BE SWORN IN, AS GADZAMA BOWS OUT

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has again vowed not to appeal the recently concluded Nigerian Bar Association presidential election notwithstanding the resignation en masse of members of the NBA National Election Appeal Committee (NBA-NEAC).

This clears the way for senior lawyer, Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau SAN to be sworn in as the next NBA President, having been declared winner of the July 16, 2022 election by the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA).

In a press release made available to CITY LAWYER, Chief Chukwudi Oli, a close aide of the ranking Bar Leader, said that “The NBA-NEAC instant resignation is now of no moment and whatever bias this belated attempt aims at curing is long spent and overtaken by event since it is well outside 10 days from the announcement of the election results by the ECNBA within which petitions are to be filed before it.”

Signed by Oli, Director-General of J-K CampaignTeam, the statement noted that “the NBA-NEAC, as with all Standing Committees, is constituted by the President of the NBA, subject to ratification by the National Executive Council. Therefore, a reconstituted NBA-NEAC will no doubt still require the ratification of NEC to lawfully function.”

According to Oli, “If anything, the instant resignation buttresses premeditated and predetermined objectives; for how best can it be explained that the instant resignation is coming well outside of the time limit the NBA-NEAC had itself stipulated in para 3.2 of its “GUIDELINES FOR HEARING AND DETERMINING COMPLAINT(S) FROM CANDIDATES IN THE 2022 NBA NATIONAL ELECTIONS.””

Titled “RE: RESIGNATION OF MEMBERS OF THE NBA NATIONAL ELECTIONS APPEAL COMMITTEE,” the Campaign Team chided the NBA-NEAC members for claiming that the earlier letter to NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata was penned by Gadzama, saying that “in the present instance and for clarity, the referenced letter of July 26, 2022, was even neither signed nor circulated by Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN on social media as alleged by the NBA-NEAC.

It also berated the NBA-NEAC members for the tone of their joint resignation letter, saying that “as legal practitioners and conscionable persons, we understand the virtue of being temperate in language and making variable assertions; and therefore make bold to say that expressing reservations about a process, especially in view of the manifest likelihood of bias, cannot and should not be misread as ‘unfortunate, and undeserving’ or ‘most uncharitable’, as was erroneously averred by the NBA-NEAC.”

The Campaign Team stated that “Considering that the notice of the constitution of the National Elections Appeal Committee for the NBA National Election was released on May 21, 2022, every member of the NBA-NEAC had ample notice to recuse themselves, especially where such member(s) has/have a preference as to candidate(s) in the national elections and have manifestly or tacitly, either by their actions and/or inactions, exhibited such.

“We are ultimately charitable to the truth and our convictions for a better bar. It is in itself most uncharitable to refer to such conviction as uncharitable.”

Below is the full text of the statement.

PRESS RELEASE

RE: RESIGNATION OF MEMBERS OF THE NBA NATIONAL ELECTIONS APPEAL COMMITTEE

The letter dated July 30, 2022, from the NBA-National Elections Appeal Committee (NBA- NEAC) to the President of the NBA refers.

In the aforementioned letter, all 9 members of the NBA- NEAC have resigned their membership due to a letter of July 26, 2022, addressed to the NBA President, which the Committee has alleged was purportedly written and circulated on social media by Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN.

The NBA-NEAC also declared that the alleged “mischaracterization” ascribed to some members of the Committee is most “unfortunate, and undeserving”. It further alleged that the comments made by the learned silk in what it called the “globally circulated letter” was “most uncharitable” and thus that its “mass resignation” was due to their “indignation and principled opposition to the uncharitable comments and accusations of Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN”.

To put a method to this, we will be chronological:

1) Firstly, it is well within anyone’s rights to circulate whatever publication of substance they deem fit, in the present instance and for clarity, the referenced letter of July 26, 2022, was even neither signed nor circulated by Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN on social media as alleged by the NBA-NEAC. The referenced letter of July 26, 2022, was ably signed by Chief C.P Oli, the Director General, J-K Gadzama Campaign Team, and co-signed by Mr. O.E Oluwabiyi, the Admin Officer of the J-K Gadzama Campaign Team, and further addressed to the President of the NBA, with the NBA-NEAC in copy. Words and actions should not be arrogated without recourse to factual stream of events. Posterity is always kind to the truthful.

2) Secondly, as legal practitioners and conscionable persons, we understand the virtue of being temperate in language and making variable assertions; and therefore make bold to say that expressing reservations about a process, especially in view of the manifest likelihood of bias, cannot and should not be misread as “unfortunate, and undeserving” or “most uncharitable”, as was erroneously averred by the NBA-NEAC. We are ultimately charitable to the truth and our convictions for a better bar. It is in itself most uncharitable to refer to such conviction as uncharitable.

3) Considering that the notice of the constitution of the National Elections Appeal Committee for the NBA National Election was released on May 21, 2022, every member of the NBA-NEAC had ample notice to recuse themselves, especially where such member(s) has/have a preference as to candidate(s) in the national elections and have manifestly or tacitly, either by their actions and/or inactions, exhibited such.

4) The NBA-NEAC instant resignation is now of no moment and whatever bias this belated attempt aims at curing is long spent and overtaken by event since it is well outside 10 days from the announcement of the election results by the ECNBA within which petitions are to be filed before it. If anything, the instant resignation buttresses premeditated and predetermined objectives; for how best can it be explained that the instant resignation is coming well outside of the time limit the NBA-NEAC had itself stipulated in para 3.2 of its “GUIDELINES FOR HEARING AND DETERMINING COMPLAINT(S) FROM CANDIDATES IN THE 2022 NBA NATIONAL ELECTIONS.”

5) Furthermore, under S.14 (1) (l) of the NBA Constitution 2015 (as Amended in 2021), the NBA National Election Appeal Committee is listed as a Standing Committee. By S.14 (3) (i) of the said Constitution, the NBA-NEAC, as with all Standing Committees, is constituted by the President of the NBA, subject to ratification by the National Executive Council. Therefore, a reconstituted NBA-NEAC will no doubt still require the ratification of NEC to lawfully function.

6) It is against these serious and all-important backgrounds that we restate our commitment to a better bar is as unwavering as the rock of Gibraltar. It is a job that must be done and rightly so.

Long live the Nigerian Bar Association!

Signed:

Chief C. P. Oli
Director-General
J-K Campaign Team
01/08/2022

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Aug 01, 2022
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VOX POPULI FOUNDATION LIFTS KEFFI PRISON WITH GIFTS

Director-General, Vox Populi Foundation Leads Members of the Foundation to Donate Towards the Improvement of the Keffi Correctional Centre, Nasarawa State

On Wednesday, July 27, 2022, Chief C.P Oli, the Director-General of Vox Populi Foundation, in the company of other distinguished members and representatives of the President of the Vox Populi Foundation, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN, visited the Keffi Correctional Centre, Nasarawa State.

The Vox Populi Foundation is primarily geared towards advocating for good governance and making a positive impact on society and by way of contributing their quota to society, the DG and other members present at the correctional center interacted with the Officer in Charge and the Welfare Officer of the correctional centre.

The Director General of the foundation commended the laudable efforts of the officers of the correctional center who have been working ceaselessly to ensure that inmates are able to access education. He noted the essence of public-private partnership in the society and stated further that the primary aim of the visit was to render assistance to the correctional center by sponsoring those inmates who are set to take the upcoming examinations of the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB). In addition, Chief Oli stated that the foundation shall also offset the fines of two inmates who are unable to afford their freedom.

The Officer in Charge of the Correctional Center, Mr. Simon Raphael Kaigama pronounced encomiums on the DG and the other members of the foundation, including Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, for their support and contribution to the correctional center. He informed all present that education is a form of rehabilitation and as a firm believer in this, efforts have been taken to ensure that several inmates are currently enrolled in the National Open University to pursue their first degree, Masters and even, Ph.D in their various areas of interest. The inmates whose fines were paid were presented to the DG and other members of the foundation. Both of them expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the foundation.

Thereafter, the Director-General of the foundation presented the token for the inmates and the correctional center from the foundation to the Officer in Charge of the facility. He also assured the facility that steps are presently in motion to render pro-bono services to inmates in order to decongest the facility. Members who were present include: Love Chukwumerije, Hillary A. Ojeke, Nafisat Abisola Ibrahim, Hajara Sorondinki, Precious Ulasi, Magai Magaji, Farida Lanre-Ipinmisho, Ebube Okpogu, Promise Godwin, Elizabeth Ibrahim Auta, Cynthia Igwedibia, and a host of other eminent personalities, who collectively represented the President, Vox Populi Foundation, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN.

Indeed, it was an excellent outing as service to mankind is service to life.

Signed:

Hassan Sherif
Publicity Secretary
Vox Populi Foundation

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 31, 2022
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EXCLUSIVE: NBA ELECTION APPEAL C’TE MEMBERS RESIGN EN MASSE, BLAST GADZAMA

All members of the Nigerian Bar Association Election Appeals Committee (NBA-NEAC) have resigned their appointment, citing a petition “circulated on social media by Chief J. K. Gadzama SAN, one of the presidential candidates in the recently-concluded National Elections of the Nigerian Bar Association.”

In a letter obtained by CITY LAWYER and dated 30th July, 2022, the erstwhile Appeals Committee members wrote: “Regrettably, we the members of the NBA-NEAC have taken the collective decision to resign our appointment in order to pave the way for you to constitute a new National Election Appeals Committee in which Chief J. K. Gadzama SAN would have enough confidence to ventilate his grievances against the conduct of the recently-concluded elections.”

Addressed to NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata, the signatories are Mrs. Funmi Roberts (Chairperson), Huwaila Mohammed Ibrahim, Dr. Rosemary Chinelo Chikwendu, Hubert Nwoye, Austin Ajineh (Secretary), Stephen Obajaja, Okey Ohagba, Grace Selre Mamswa and Mathew Egbadon.

The former NBA-NEAC members described as “most unfortunate and underserving (sic)” the “mischaracterization ascribed to some members of the Committee.”

They stated that many NBA-NEAC members refrained from voting during the election “all in an effort to ensure that the process would not in any way be tainted by accusation of bias,” adding however that Gadzama “has decided to take the innocuous act of liking a post that celebrates Children’s Day globally on 27th May, 2022, by Mrs Funmi Roberts, and ascribed bias into it.”

Perhaps admitting the culpability of one of its members, the signatories stated that “In the case of Ms Huwaila Muhammed Ibrahim, if Chief J. K. Gadzama SAN had filed an appeal before us and objected to her participating whilst same is being considered, she would have had to recuse herself,” adding that “this accords with best international practice.”

The NBA-NEAC members also stated that their findings revealed that Mr. Okey Ohagba “was never at any time the co-ordinator of the opposing aspirant (sic),” adding that “had Chief J. K. Gadzama SAN filed an appeal before the Committee and objected to his participation, he would also have recused himself.”

Saying that the “comments by learned silk in the globally circulated letter is therefore, most uncharitable,” the former Appeals Committee members however stated that “we hold the very strong view that the Nigerian Bar Association is greater than the sum total of all the members of the Committee, and it is the duty of all members of our Association to strive at all times to shield her from anything that would taint, not only her image, but also that of any process put in place by the Association.”

The former members stated that though the mass resignation would “cause great inconvenience” to Akpata and members of the NBA Executive Committee, “this is a time when our indignation and principled opposition to the uncharitable comments and accusations of Chief J. K. Gadzama SAN must give way to the greater good of our Association.

CITY LAWYER recalls that Gadzama’s close aides had in a letter to Akpata informed him that the former presidential candidate would not approach the NBA-NEAC for redress over the recent NBA Elections due to concerns on its neutrality.

In a letter made available to CITY LAWYER and signed by Messrs Chukwudi Oli and O. E. Oluwabiyi, the Director-General and Admin Officer respectively of Team J-K Gadzama SAN, the organization stated that “we wish to bring to your attention that our candidate, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN will not be exploring the option of approaching the Committee on the following grounds…”

Titled “RESERVATIONS ABOUT THE NBA NATIONAL ELECTIONS APPEALS COMMITTEE (NBA-NEAC),” Team J-K Gadzama SAN alleged that the Chairperson of the Committee, Mrs. Funmi Roberts is “more of a supporter of Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN by liking posts on LinkedIn.”

The organization also doubted the neutrality of former NBA National Officer and Appeals Committee member, Mr. Okey Ohagba, saying that he “was an active Coordinator in Port Harcourt for Y. C. Maikyau, SAN.”

Team J-K Gadzama SAN again alleged that another member of the Appeals Committee, Mrs. Huwaila Muhammed Ibrahim “actively and openly posted contents on her Facebook platform projecting Y. C. Maikyau, SAN.”

The organization stated that the “non-neutrality” of these members of the Appeals Committee “poses elements of bias by virtue of their active participation in the campaign activities of Y. C. Maikyau, SAN in the recently concluded National Elections which held on Saturday, 16th July, 2022.

“We sincerely believe that the aforementioned persons will not be able to discharge the duties of the Committee devoid of sentiments and biases and hence, present no guarantee of credibility and fairness in administering unbiased decisions and findings. We have attached some screen pictures of displays by these persons in support of Y. C. Maikyau, SAN during the period of campaign activities. Please see Annexure NBA1 and Annexure
NBA2;

“The refusal of the ECNBA to allow an election audit which would examine the Election/Result Logs and the platform for the election as requested by our candidate’s Agent, Andrew Agbo-Madaki in his letter dated Saturday, 16th July, 2022 further renders our cause a herculean task if not an impossible one before the Committee, whose duty is essentially factfinding.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 27, 2022
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GADZAMA SHUNS NBA APPEALS C’TE OVER BIAS CONCERNS, DG WRITES AKPATA

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN will not approach the NBA NBA National Elections Appeals Committee (NBA-NEAC) for redress over the recent NBA Elections due to concerns on the neutrality of the committee, CITY LAWYER can authoritatively report.

In a letter made available to CITY LAWYER and addressed to NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata, Team J-K Gadzama SAN stated that “we wish to bring to your attention that our candidate, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN will not be exploring the option of approaching the Committee on the following grounds…”

Signed by Messrs Chukwudi Oli and O. E. Oluwabiyi, the Director-General and Admin Officer respectively of and titled “RESERVATIONS ABOUT THE NBA NATIONAL ELECTIONS APPEALS COMMITTEE (NBA-NEAC),” Team J-K Gadzama SAN alleged that the Chairperson of the Committee, Mrs. Funmi Roberts is “more of a supporter of Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN by liking posts on LinkedIn.”

“As a result of the aforementioned grounds and circumstances, personal reasons of Chief Gadzama, SAN have also arisen.

“In precis, we firmly believe that the leadership of the NBA has a duty to maintain a level playing ground for all stakeholders and parties, and to guarantee the integrity of the post-election process.”

The NBA is yet to respond to the allegations. Maikyau was declared winner of the election conducted on July 16, 2022 via electronic voting.

To view the full letter, click here

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 20, 2022
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‘NBA ELECTION 2022 MOST SUSCEPTIBLE TO RIGGING,’ SAYS GADZAMA

One of the leading candidates in the just concluded Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Elections, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has alleged that ElectionBuddy, the electronic voting platform deployed for the elections, “was highly vulnerable and most susceptible to electronic fraud, rigging and pre-programming of votes.”

In a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, Gadzama also stated that a report by his ICT consultant dated Monday, July 18, 2022 “also shows that there is a high likelihood that the system could be hacked and manipulated.”

He stated that “A follow-up report by my agent dated Wednesday, July 20, 2022 confirms that this occurrence was more than likely,” adding that “I have been advised that this is why the percentage score among all the three Presidential candidates remained within the same range from the commencement of voting till the end. This, as I have been advised, is not human behavior but mechanical.”

Gadzama stated that though one Mr. Mohammed Mustapha, an ICT specialist, had applied to act as the Technical Support Consultant (TSC) to the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA), “the ECNBA did not list his company as one that had applied; rather only two companies were listed before one was selected to provide the consultancy.”

The full text of the statement is below.

PRESS RELEASE ON THE JUST-CONCLUDED NBA NATIONAL ELECTION

Introduction
As you may recall, the National Election of the Nigerian Bar Association (‘NBA’) was concluded on Saturday, July 16, 2022.

My utmost appreciation goes to the members of the Electoral Committee of the NBA (‘ECNBA’) who conducted our election. I respect each of them and commend their efforts. I equally salute all the contestants who vied for various positions.

Pre-Election
It is pertinent to state that before the conduct of the election, my agent – Mr Andrew Madaki tested the vulnerability of the website to conduct the election – electionbuddy.com. The report, which is attached to this release, shows that the website was susceptible to manipulation.

Thereafter, my agent and other agents present raised some of these concerns during the press briefing conducted by the ECNBA on the eve of the election.

Voting
During the conduct of the election, my agent discovered numerous irregularities and expressed same by a letter sent via email to the ECNBA at 2:00 pm. The same is attached to this release. In the email, he reported the frequent timeouts experienced by the site, lack of access to the backend of the server, lack of graphical representation of the results and ultimately requested to audit the election, which the ECNBA promised to provide immediately.

Post-Election
After the conduct of the election, my agent sent a reminder to the ECNBA on Sunday, July 17, 2022 to audit the election and discover if there were more irregularities but same has not been provided by the ECNBA.

After the conduct of the election, my agent engaged another IT specialist to test the server. The report of the specialist which was dated Monday, July 18, 2022 also shows that there is a high likelihood that the system could be hacked and manipulated. A follow-up report by my agent dated Wednesday, July 20, 2022 confirms that this occurrence was more than likely. I have been advised that this is why the percentage score among all the three Presidential candidates remained within the same range from the commencement of voting till the end. This, as I have been advised, is not human behavior but mechanical.

It is important to re-iterate that auditing the election will permit independent parties and agents to discover if there were any technical interferences to usurp the will of the electorate. This access is expected to have been provided immediately after the conclusion of the poll to prevent any party from tampering with the system.

Pre-Qualification of Technical Consultant to ECNBA
On Friday, June 24, 2022, I invited numerous IT specialists to advise me. One of them was Mr Mohammed Mustapha who I asked to provide information security and communication strategy in the just-concluded NBA Election; however, on Monday, June 27, 2022, Mr Mustapha declined my offer as a result of conflict of interest because he had earlier applied to the ECNBA to act as a consultant. After declining my request, Mr Mustapha informed me that although he had applied to be a consultant to the ECNBA before the deadline, the ECNBA did not list his company as one that had applied; rather only two companies were listed before one was selected to provide the consultancy. The two referenced letters are attached.

Also attached to this release are: (i) the notice released by the ECNBA asking for proposals for a technical consultant titled ‘Request for Proposal for Technical Support Consultant to the ECNBA – Submission Reminder Notice’, (ii) acknowledged copy of the bid by Mr Mustapha titled ‘Re: Request for Proposal for Technical Support Consultant to the ECNBA’ received by the ECNBA at 3:35 pm on 22/4/22, and (iii) the notice displaying companies that applied titled ‘Respondents to Request for Proposal for Technical Support Consultant’.

Conclusion
On the whole, and in view of the above facts and attached documents, it is clear that the technology adopted was highly vulnerable and most susceptible to electronic fraud, rigging and pre-programming of votes. I hereby call upon the ECNBA to allow an immediate audit of the election and server.

Dated this Wednesday, the 20th day of July, 2022

____________________________¬¬_
Joe-Kyari Gadzama OFR, MFR, SAN
Presidential Candidate

ENCLS:
1. Vulnerability report dated Sunday, July 10, 2022;
2. Complaint letter dated Saturday, July 16, 2022;
3. Email reminder to the ECNBA on Sunday, July 17, 2022;
4. Vulnerability report dated Monday, July 18, 2022;
5. NBA National Elections 2022: Report dated Wednesday, July 20, 2022;
6. Provision of information security and communication strategy for the forthcoming NBA election dated Friday, June 24, 2022;
7. Re: Provision of information security and communication strategy for the forthcoming NBA National Elections dated Monday, June 27, 2022;
8. Request for proposal for technical support consultant to the ECNBA – Submission Reminder Notice dated April 21, 2022;
9. Re: Request for Proposal for Technical Support Consultant to the ECNBA dated April 22, 2022; and
10. Respondents to Request for Proposal for Technical Support Consultant dated April 25, 2022.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 17, 2022
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NBA ELECTION: ‘WE ARE ALL WINNERS,’ SAYS GADZAMA’S DG

The campaign organisation for Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) presidential candidate in the just concluded NBA National Elections, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has declared that all stakeholders who participated in the election are winners.

The full text of the press release issued by the Director-General of the J-K Campaign Team, Chief C. P. Oli, reads:

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 16, 2022
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GADZAMA PETITIONS ECNBA, WANTS NBA ELECTION AUDITED

The controversies that trailed three past NBA National Elections conducted through electronic voting may not abate as Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has petitioned the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA) for an audit of the ongoing election. The election ends by midnight today.

In a petition to the Electoral Committee Chairman made available to CITY LAWYER and titled “Complaints Against Fundamental National Election lrregularities and Non-Compliance in the NBA National Election,” the presidential candidate demanded “a forensic audit of the election and the result logs.”

ECNBA Chairman, Mr. Ayodele Akintunde SAN confirmed receipt of the petition. He told CITY LAWYER that “We have the letter,” adding that “We will review it and take appropriate action.”

Dated July 16, 2022 and signed by an ICT expert and his sole Agent in the ECNBA Situation Room, Mr. Andrew Agbo-Madaki, Gadzama outlined several complaints against the election, saying that at yesterday’s ECNBA stakeholders’ briefing, “several agents complained about the last-minute briefing which did not avail ample time for the agents and IT experts of the candidates to test the voting system and portal.”

He noted that while the electoral umpire had earlier promised that access to live results would be made available to voters, “Only agents in the situation room had access to the live results.”

According to the petition, agents requested backend access to review the voting portal “as required under international best practices, this request was rejected.”

Gadzama stated that “lt is also important to state that despite assurances of the ECNBA and the technology provider INITS limited on the suitability of the voting site www.electionbuddy.com, between the hours of 1am to 3am there were repeated error messages while viewing the live results (error: 502 bad gateway): The HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP) 502 Bad Gateway server error response code indicates that the server, while acting as a gateway or proxy, received an invalid response from the upstream Server.”

Alluding that this may have compromised the voting portal, the letter stated that “this makes us question the credibility and efficiency of the portal which promised to handle a 100,000 voter capacity.”

The petition also stated that “Agents and stakeholders were (sic) also requested graphical representation of the results which would show details according to branches. This was not made available during the election period.”

A source at the Gadzama Campaign Directorate told CITY LAWYER that their demand is for an audit that must be conducted before announcement of the election results.

CITY LAWYER gathered that there were occasional outages on the viewing screen at the ECNBA Situation Room which got some agents agitated.

But an ECNBA source told CITY LAWYER that the outages had no impact on the server or the election results, saying: “The idea that 1 LED screen in the NBA annexe somehow controls the balloting is preposterous.

“The system as you may imagine has to do recomputation of displays periodically. I suspect the issue is that whenever the system needs to recompute, the display retreats momentarily while that happens. That is not entirely unpredictable? But, to many of our people, that is ECNBA manufacturing another hike in numbers.”

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 13, 2022
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‘WHY WE’RE BACKING GADZAMA,’ BY BAR LEADERS, OTHERS

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 13, 2022
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MUSICIAN, COMEDIANS THRILL AS GADZAMA GROOVES PORT HARCOURT LAWYERS

IT WAS ALL FUN AS MEMBERS OF THE NBA PORT-HARCOURT BRANCH (TEAM RIVERS FOR J-K) ROARED SUPPORT FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANT JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, OFR, MFR, SAN

The Saturday night groove held in honour of J-K on the 9th of July at the ARENA was graced by the Learned Silk Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN with his entourage: Mela Audu Nunghe SAN, Prof. S. C. Dike (Lecturer, Faculty of Law, Rivers State University), Chukwudi Prince Oli Esq. (Director General of Vox Populi Foundation), Dr. Kayode Ajulo, Esq., Junaidu Abubakar Esq. (Chairman of NBA Gusau branch) Kekemeke Tobi Esq. (Past chairman of NBA Jos branch), Monday Adjeh Esq. (Chairman of NBA Bwari branch), Ogunjide Emmanuel Tayo Esq. (Chairman of NBA Gwagwalada branch), Luka Haruna Esq. (Past Chairman of NBA Gombe branch), Funso Odebode Esq. (Vice chairman of NBA Abuja Branch), Mr. Victor Nwugo Esq. (Past National Legal Adviser of NBA), Darlington Onyekwere Esq. (Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP), Madu Joe-Kyari Gadzama Esq. (Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP), Oluniyi Adediji Esq. (Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP), Jerry Ombugadu Musa Esq.(Former Financial Secretary NBA Abuja Branch and Junior Partner at J-K Gadzama LLP), Marvin Ibem Esq. (Publicity Secretary, NBA Ikeja Branch), Chidi Eke Esq.(Former Vice Chairman Port-Harcourt branch), Selena Alamina Esq. (Vice Chairman Eastern Bar Forum), Lamar Joe-Kyari Gadzama Esq., Onyekachi Eluwa Esq., Dafenone Akpomudiare Esq., Okpogu Esq., Hillary Ojeke Esq. and Love Chukwumerije Esq.

The current executive members of the NBA Port-Harcourt Branch who were also present at the event include: Victor Benebo Esq. (Chairman NBA Port-Harcourt Branch), Emmanuel Okpala Esq. (Vice Chairman NBA Port-Harcourt Branch), Chinwo Omodu Esq. (Secretary NBA Port-Harcourt Branch), Barbara Abayomi Esq. (Assistant Secretary NBA Port-Harcourt Branch), Iwari Goodhead Esq. (Treasurer NBA Port-Harcourt Branch), Ogechi Agbai Esq. (Financial Secretary NBA Port-Harcourt Branch), Ogom Goodluck Esq. (Social Secretary NBA Port-Harcourt Branch), Godwin Odimabo, Esq. (Welfare Secretary NBA Port-Harcourt Branch), Daminobo Livingstone Esq. (Provost NBA Port-Harcourt Branch), Datom Alambo Esq. (Publicity Secretary NBA Port-Harcourt Branch).

In his opening remarks, the Master of Ceremony, Mr Bright Otobo, reiterated the need for lawyers to unwind as a prelude to vacation, share camaraderie and friendship outside of the pugilistic ambience of the courtroom. He further introduced the eminent silk J-K Gadzama, SAN as the “primus inter pares”, an astute legal practitioner whose pedigree stand him out as the best candidate for the NBA Presidency, owing to his qualifications, work experience, appointments, affiliations/associations, mentorship programs among others.

Prof. S. C. Dike (Lecturer, Faculty of Law, Rivers State University) alluded to the fact that J-K Gadzama, SAN has set the standard in legal practice and has broken unfathomable records as a guide and mentor to many. He lauded the immense impact J-K Gadzama has made in the Association of Environmental Lawyers of Nigeria (AELN) as the Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Association and urged the audience to massively support J-K Gadzama, SAN who is an exemplification of greatness.

To say that the event was fun-filled is an understatement! The entertainment was top notch as trendy comedians like Prince Hezekiah, Warri Bros and Danny Spry got the audience laughing to their rib-cracking jokes and stories. The famous musical artist and king of freestyle entertainment, “Dan Dizzy”, also thrilled the audience with his sensational freestyle rap.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 12, 2022
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‘BEST GIFT TO YOUNG LAWYERS IS MENTORING,’ SAYS GADZAMA

JOE-KYARI GADZAMA SAN ATTENDS THE EMERGENCY GENERAL MEETING OF THE NBA GWAGWALADA BRANCH

The NBA Gwagwalada Branch (Eagle Bar) on the 6th July, 2022 held an emergency general meeting at the high court complex, Gwagwalada.

Excos, Elders and Members of the Eagle Bar warmly welcomed Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his entourage comprising of Audu Mela Nunge, SAN Former Gombe State commissioner for special duties, former Chairman NBA Abuja Branch, Paul Eshemomo Esq, Janaidu Abubakar Esq, Chairman NBA Gusau Branch, Francis Oronsaye, Managing Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP, Jerry Ombugadu Musa, Junior Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP, Mark Chidi Agbo, Junior Partner J-K Gadzama LLP, Rashidat Banke Obamijure, Sarah Jeta Atumga, Hassan Sherif, Onyekachi Eluwa, Hilary Ojeke, Promise Godwin, Magai Magaji, Nafisat Ibrahim, Kenneth Udemba, Roseline Ogwuche, Theresa Okwuefuna, Lawyers in the law firm of J-K Gadzama LLP to the branch meeting.

A former Chairman of the Gwagwalada branch while making his remarks informed members of the branch the important role J-K Gadzama, SAN played in the creation of the Gwagwalada branch. He stated that the history of how the branch came to be and those who played important roles in it’s creation has to be told and written.

While introducing the learned silk, the Chairman of the branch Ogunjide Emmanuel Tayo noted that J-K Gadzama, SAN has been a godsent and a helper of the branch. He thanked the Learned silk for not abandoning them.

Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN while congratulating the new Excos said that Biblically and even Islamically, there are the Moses’ who lay foundations and then the Joshuas’ who build on those foundations. He stated that he is the Moses who laid the foundation of the branch.

He further stated that it is the prayers of fathers for their sons to do better than them. Having been a former Chairman of the Branch, he is proud of how far the branch has come and that he would never hold back from helping them. He promised his continuous support as he said that he had planned to be in Lagos on Wednesday but had changed his mind and will be in their program to honor their 10th year anniversary.

According to Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN “the greatest you can do for young lawyers is mentorship and that is what I have been doing over the years for young lawyers”.

He urged members of the branch to track the records of the Presidential aspirants and make informed decision in the forthcoming NBA general elections.

In his remarks, Mela Nunge, SAN former Chairman NBA Abuja branch stated that he is grateful to JK Gadzama SAN for giving him the opportunity to visit Gwagwalada Branch which he called home. He stated that he believes in the genuineness of purpose of the learned silk and urged members to trust J-K Gadzama SAN with their votes in the forthcoming NBA election.

Paul Eshemomo Esq, stated that J-K Gadzama, SAN is his mentor who has over the years done what no other lawyer, old and young have been able to do for young lawyers.

He stated that J-K Gadzama, SAN has through his mentorship programme which has been on for the past 8 years impacted the lives of young lawyers.

He urged young lawyers to take advantage of the forthcoming NBA election to secure their future.

While thanking the learned silk and his entourage for visiting the branch, an elder of the branch wished the learned silk success in the forthcoming election and a safe journey back to his destination.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 08, 2022
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‘GAADI VS GADZAMA: A CAMPAIGN OF CALUMNY,’ BY CHUKWUDI OLI

RESPONSE TO ALLEGATION OF BRIEF SNATCHING IN JACOB GAADI & 13 ORS V J-K GADZAMA, SAN & ORS (FHC/ABJ/CS/321/2015) AND APPEAL NO. CA/E/410/2008

1. Recently, my attention was drawn to allegations of brief snatching in certain renowned matters which Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN handled as lead counsel.

2. The said allegations are replete with falsehood and largely untrue.

3. Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN has never and will never conduct himself in such a manner that is detrimental to the status of the legal profession and Senior Advocates of Nigeria.

4. I maintain that the Learned Silk was solely acting in accordance with the wishes of his clients in the aforementioned matter with suit no: FHC/ABJ/CS/321/2015.

5. It will interest you to know that on various court proceedings in respect of the referenced matter at the FHC, the Judgment Creditors were present in court and confirmed the Learned Silk on record as their counsel.

6. I know for a fact that by a letter dated May 22, 2015, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN was instructed to initiate proceedings to set aside the consent judgment at the Court of Appeal in Appeal No: CA/E/410/2008.

7. I am also aware that Mr. Ocha Ulegede had been debriefed by the clients from handling the said matter on their behalf via various letters.

8. Several attempts were made by the Learned Silk and other persons to incorporate Mr. Ocha Ulegede into the team handling the matter. However, Mr. Ulegede declined despite repeated assurances that all outstanding fees will be paid to him.

9. On the Court of Appeal issue, a former counsel in the Learned Silk’s chambers had filed a Notice of Change of Counsel but this was unknown to the Learned Justice because the Notice was not part of the records that were before the Court of Appeal in that matter.

10. I know for a fact that the Learned Silk never signed any process or appeared during the pendency of the matter at the Court of Appeal. The finding of the Court of Appeal was reached without hearing both sides on the issue of change of Counsel.

11. The Learned Silk commenced an appeal at the Supreme Court on February 14, 2017 in relation to the referenced matter based on a letter dated January 2017 wherein the clients engaged the firm of J-K Gadzama LLP to appeal against the ruling of the Court of Appeal delivered in respect of an application to set aside the consent judgment of the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/E/410/2008.

12. Upon institution of the appeal at the Supreme Court, Mr. Ocha Ulegede took steps to induce some of the parties to withdraw the appeal.

13. The attempts made by Mr. Ocha Ulegede were largely unsuccessful. Despite his unsuccessful attempts, he has continued to taint the image and reputation of the Learned Silk.

14. Some of the Judgment Creditors in the referenced matter before the FHC whom the Learned Silk represented in the appeal were also desirous of pursuing the appeal and as such, he was instructed to prosecute the appeal on their behalf.

15. Although, some of the Judgment Creditors were induced to make a petition against the Learned Silk to the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee (LPPC), they have since withdrawn these petitions submitted.

16. Also, in confirmation of the Learned Silk’s capacity as counsel of choice of the Judgment Creditors, he was made a signatory to endorse the sharing formula of the Garnishee Order Absolute made on August 19, 2019 by the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja in satisfying the judgment sum of the Court of Appeal, Enugu.

17. I restate that the Learned Silk’s involvement at every stage of this matter has been at the directive of the Judgment Creditors in the matter and in pursuit of their best interests.

18. This clarification has become necessary for record purposes and to set the records straight in the face of politically motivated campaign of calumny against the Learned Silk.

19. Thankfully, as lawyers, we all have the ability to discern truth from fallacy. God bless us all.

SIGNED:

Chukwudi Prince Oli, Esq.
DG Vox Populi Foundation

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 06, 2022
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NBA PRESIDENCY: ENDORSEMENT WAR RAGES, AS BAR LEADERS BACK GADZAMA, MAIKYAU

An endorsement battle seems to be raging among the leading presidential candidates, CITY LAWYER can authoritatively report.

Bar Leaders among others are currently lining behind their preferred candidates in the hope that this will sway eligible voters to tag along.

Each endorsement is celebrated by the campaign organisations with flashy flyers highlighting the testimonial about the candidate.

CITY LAWYER observes that the endorsements are not limited to the presidential candidates, as some candidates especially for national offices have also been receiving testimonials from close aides and associates.

Among those who have thrown their weight behind the presidential aspiration of Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN are incumbent Ondo State Governor and former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu SAN; former Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Chief George Uwechue SAN; foremost human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana SAN, and former Deputy Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Prof. Ernest Ojukwu SAN.

Others are leading chartered arbitrator, Prof. Paul Obo Idornigie SAN; Messrs Zik Obi and Chuks Ikokwu, both former Presidents of Otu Oka Iwu (Law Society), the umbrella body of lawyers of Igbo extraction; Chief Martin Ogunleye, former Chairman of NBA Lagos Branch; Mr. Sylvester Udemezue, a Lecturer at the Nigerian Law School, and Hadiza Nasir Ahmad, former member of NBA Electoral Reform and Audit Committee.

On his part, Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau SAN has garnered endorsements from equally eminent Bar Leaders including Mrs. Hairat Ade-Balogun OON, a Life Bencher; foremost arbitrator and former NBA Treasurer, Mrs. Funke Adekoya SAN; former Chairman of NBA Legal Profession Regulation Review Committee, Dr. Anthony Idigbe SAN, and Mallam Yusuf Ali SAN, pioneer Chairman, NBA Section on Legal Practice (SLP).

Others are Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN; Chief Adebayo Adelodun SAN; Mr. K. K. Eleja SAN; Prof. Wahab Egbewole SAN; former NBA General Secretary, Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN and Mr. Abdul Mohammed SAN

An aide of Taidi told CITY LAWYER that “We need to take our time to compile the list. I have asked our team members to work on it.” He was yet to revert at press time.

The NBA Election is scheduled to hold via electronic voting on Saturday, July 16, 2022. The election will be conducted on ElectionBuddy voting platform in collaboration with Finesse Technology Limited.

The presidential candidates will tomorrow go head-to-head in a hybrid Presidential Debate organized by the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA).

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 05, 2022
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‘WHY WE DID NOT ADOPT GADZAMA, MAIKYAU, OTHERS,’ – BY EGBE AMOFIN

The resurgent umbrella association of lawyers of Yoruba extraction, Egbe Amofin O’odua has thrown its weight behind some candidates in the forthcoming Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) General Elections, even as it shunned adoption of any of the presidential candidates.

In a statement made available to CITY LAWYER by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Yinka Sokoya, the Egbe “adopted” some of the candidates but was silent on all the presidential candidates among others.

The forum also shunned some candidates who are of Yoruba extraction but who failed to approach the association for endorsement. These include Messrs Oladapo Olalekan Idowu and Oyeyiola Durodoluwa Emmanuel who are gunning for the position of NBA Representative at the General Council of the Bar (GCB).

CITY LAWYER gathered that the Egbe failed to adopt any of the presidential candidates, including Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN, Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau SAN and Mr. Jonathan Gunu Taidi, because the Arewa Lawyers Forum did not adopt any of them as its candidate.

The tradition, which is based on reciprocity, is for the regional forums to adopt candidates proposed to them by the forum whose turn it is to present a candidate for certain positions. The position of NBA President is allotted to the Northern Zone by the NBA Constitution (as amended), shutting out aspirants from both Eastern and Western zones.

According to the statement signed by Messrs Isiaka Abiola Olagunju SAN and Adetunji Oso, Egbe Amofin’s Chairman and Secretary General respectively, the resolutions arose from the hybrid Egbe Amofin 1st Quarterly Meeting held on 2nd July, 2022 at the Aare Afe Babalola SAN NBA Ibadan Bar Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.

It stated that some Egbe members contesting the NBA Elections “were presented to the meeting for adoption and were so adopted.”

These include former NBA Welfare Secretary, Mr. Adesina Adegbite who aspires for the mantle of NBA General Secretary; Mr. Gbemiga Adaramola (Welfare Secretary), Funmi Adeogun (National Treasurer), Mr. Habib Akorede Lawal (Publicity Secretary), Mr. Charles Ajiboye (Assistant Publicity Secretary) and Prof. Oluwole Akintayo, GCB Representative. It also “adopted” Messrs Dhikirullah Adewale Balogun and Seun Aka who are poised for a face-off to clinch the position of Assistant General Secretary.

The meeting was attended by Chief Adeniyi Akintola SAN, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade SAN, Aare Muyiwa Akinboro SAN, Chief Ranti Ajeleti, and Mr. Olasupo Ojo among others while Mr. Oluseun Abimbola SAN and Prof. Ademola Olawuyi SAN joined virtually.

Aside from resolving to “greatly de-emphasise the relevance and activities of Egbe during NBA National Election and engage in other rewarding activities in order to re-position Egbe,” the regional forum also “condemned the terrorists attack on a Catholic Church in Owo on 5th June 2022 as it was highly unacceptable and sent condolences to all families who lost their loved ones in unfortunate incident.”

The NBA Elections hold on Saturday, July 16, 2022 with about 60,000 eligible voters expected to cast their ballots.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 04, 2022
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GADZAMA, MAIKYAU, TAIDI TO CLASH, AS ECNBA HOLDS DEBATE JULY 7

The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) will on Thursday, July 7, 2022 hold a “MANIFESTO DAY AND PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE” to herald the 2022 NBA Elections for National Officers and NBA Representatives at the General Council of the Bar.

In an Information Release made available to CITY LAWYER, the Committee stated that “As part of the electoral process, the ECNBA invites members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to the Manifesto Day and Presidential Debate fixed for 10 am, Thursday, 7 July 2022 at the Auditorium NBA House, Plot 1101 Cadastral Zone Central
Business District, Abuja FCT.

“Ahead of the event, members are enjoined to send their question(s) to info@ecnba.ng. Please note that the link for virtual participation will be circulated in due course.”

A further release urged lawyers who plan to attend the debate in-person to register at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdTUuNEOSFZwix5qRCqpfrELg0K5Nbrg17k__3co1-Kq_wp9g/viewform.

The NBA Election is scheduled to hold via electronic voting on Saturday, July 16, 2022.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jul 01, 2022
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NBA EKET LAW WEEK: GADZAMA GIVES KEYNOTE SPEECH, DECRIES INSECURITY, POVERTY

FEATURED

JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN DELIVERS KEYNOTE ADDRESS AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 2022 LAW WEEK OF NBA, EKET BRANCH, AKWA IBOM STATE

On Wednesday, June 29, 2022, the NBA, Eket branch held the opening ceremony of its law week with the theme, “Nigerian State and the Crisis of Governance: What Hope for 2023 and Beyond” at Royalty Hotels & Recreation, Eket, Akwa Ibom State.

Devout Bar man, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN was recognized as the keynote speaker of the ceremony. The Chairman of the branch’s 2022 Bar week gave the welcome address and thanked the Learned Silk and other eminent guests present for attending the event. The chairman of of the occasion, Hon. Justice Ifiok Ukana (Rtd) noted that the theme of the event is very apt considering the current situation of things in the country. He also stated that the Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama is best suited to deliver the keynote address on the theme.

Hon. Justice Edem Akpan who represented the Chief Judge of Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Justice Ekaette F. Obot declared the law week of the branch open. Prior to that, he commended the leadership of the Bar and keyed into the perspective shared by the chairman of the occasion. He further stated that corruption has eaten deep into the fabrics of our society and therefore, impeded the growth of our nation.

“I am here to claim my birthright” the Learned Silk jokingly stated while informing all that he is also a son of Eket. In his usual manner, he rendered justice to the theme. During his keynote address, he enumerated the indices of both good and bad governance. He expressed his displeasure over the level of poverty and insecurity in the country. One major highlight from his keynote address was the fact that he stated that all stakeholders need to discuss on the roadblocks preventing the growth of the nation and the steps to take to advance our nation. This fact was also reiterated by Mr. Uko Essien Udom, SAN, the Attorney-General of the State while addressing the audience.

The opening ceremony of the branch’s law week was indeed indelible as it witnessed the launching of the branch’s Bar journal and an inflow of highly distinguished personalities in the legal profession ranging from present and past Justices of the High Court of the State to Learned Senior Advocates of Nigeria and then to leaders of the Bar and NBA branches in Akwa Ibom State. Some of these personalities include: Hon. Justice Theresa Obot; Hon. Justice Effiong Effiong; Rt. Hon. Chief Nduese Essien; Hon. Justice B.F Etuk; Hon. Justice Pius Idion; Hon. Obong Goddy Umoh; Rt. Hon. Bassey Essien; Hon. Nimi Walson Jack, past Secretary General of NBA; Mr. Kunle Ogunba, SAN; Snr. Magistrate Esther Etuk Udo; Dr. Amanim Akpabio; Mojisola Tijani, chairperson of FIDA, Eket branch; Nsima Nsima,Esq., past chairman of NBA, Eket branch; Essien Essien, Esq., past chairman of NBA, Uyo branch; Mrs. Gloria Etim, Esq., incumbent chairman of NBA, Eket branch; Aniefiok Ekwere, chairman elect, NBA, Eket branch; Ememobong Nicholas, Esq., chairman of NBA, Uyo branch; Mr. Akpadiaha Ebitu, Esq., chairman of the planning committee of the 2022 Bar week of the branch; Mrs. Ekaette Ukpong, Director in the State’s Ministry of Justice and a host of others.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 30, 2022
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AKWA IBOM AG ENDORSES GADZAMA, AKPABIO FETES HIM

FEATURED

ATTORNEY-GENERAL, AKWA IBOM STATE ENDORSES JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN AS THE BEST CHOICE FOR THE NBA

During his stay in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN; Hon. Nimi Walson Jack, past general secretary of the NBA; Kunle Ogunba, SAN; Raphael Udoh; Hillary Ojeke and Blessing Eyibio joined members of the NBA, Uyo branch for a sit out. Mr. Uko Essien Udom, SAN (Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Akwa Ibom State) was also present at the sit out which was organized by members of the branch for the Learned Silk.

The leadership and other members of the branch who were at the event welcomed and thanked the Learned Silk for gracing their town with his presence. Past chairmen of the NBA, Uyo branch, Aniekan Akpan and Ekanem Ekanem noted that the Learned Silk is a consummate Bar man who has diligently served the NBA in various capacities. Furthermore, the incumbent chairman of the branch, Ememobong Nicholas remarked that the Bar is in need of a leader who is ready and willing to take the Bar to its final destination. He informed all present that the Learned Silk is the change needed to redeem the Bar and he assured the Learned Silk of his support towards his presidential ambition.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Akwa Ibom State who was also at the sit out noted that the Learned Silk is the most qualified candidate in terms of capacity and experience. He emphasized on the fact that the Learned Silk is presently the best choice for the Bar. Mr. Ndifreke Peter, YLF chairman of NBA, Uyo branch; Mrs. Maria Edet, Treasurer of NBA, Uyo branch and other members of the branch were also on ground to receive the Learned Silk.

The Learned Silk lauded the efforts of the branch towards his presidential ambition. He informed all that his presidential ambition was born out of his need to serve the Bar as he owes his success in life to God and the NBA. Also, he noted that in his capacity as the Chairman of the Mentorship Committee of the Body of Benchers, he will keep driving the need for adequate mentorship of young lawyers as it plays a significant role in the advancement of the legal profession.

Hon. Nimi Walson Jack and Kunle Ogunba, SAN urged all present to promote the presidential ambition of the Learned Silk and deliver the NBA presidency to him. They both noted that the Learned has played a great role in championing the affairs of the NBA and as such, it is only necessary that members of the Bar support his presidential ambition.

It was indeed an exciting evening as members were seen with radiant smiles on their faces while interacting amongst themselves and with the Learned Silk.

ANIEDI AKPABIO, ESQ. TREATS CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN AND HIS ENTOURAGE TO A FEAST

On Tuesday, June 28, 2022, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN arrived the beautiful city of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State with his entourage comprising of Hon. Nimi Walson Jack, past Secretary General of NBA; Kunle Ogunba, SAN; Raphael Udoh; Blessing Eyibio and Hillary Ayebaifie Ojeke.

Upon his arrival, the renowned Aniedi Akpabio, Esq. and his lovely wife, Mrs. Emem Akpabio heartily welcomed the Learned Silk and his guests to his private residence in Essien Udim LGA. Mr. David Ekpo, chairman of the NBA, Ikot Ekpene branch; Dame Helen Egube; Hon. Akan Udo; Mr. Nkereuwen Akpabio; Mr. Nsikan Ukpong; Ubong Atang, Publicity secretary of the branch and Albert Umoh, YLF secretary of the branch were also present to welcome the Learned Silk at the residence of Aniedi Akpabio, Esq.

The Learned Silk utilized this opportunity to reconnect with his friend and also, express his gratitude to other members of the Bar who have been the foot soldiers piloting and projecting his NBA presidential ambition. Mr. David Ekpo, the chairman of the NBA, Ikot Ekpene branch assured the Learned Silk of his undying support and noted that action plans have been drawn out to ensure that the Bar is delivered to the Learned Silk. While commenting on the good deeds of the Learned Silk, Hon. Akan Udo expressed his allegiance to the Learned Silk.

The Chief Host, Aniedi Akpabio, Esq. noted that the Learned Silk is a credible and detribalized Bar man with a proven track record of excellence. He urged all present to make the right decision by supporting the Learned Silk. Also, Hon. Nimi Walson Jack and Kunle Ogunba, SAN spoke to the integrity and dedication of the Learned Silk. They implored all present to make a smart choice by supporting the Learned Silk as he has been and is still a solid pillar behind activities of the Bar.

In the course of the evening, there were loud chants of “JKNOWNOW” initiated by Kunle Ogunba, SAN and chorused by others present. It was indeed a beautiful evening which came to an end with the Learned Silk and his guests being treated to both local and continental dishes prepared specially by Mrs. Emem Akpabio.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 29, 2022
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GADZAMA DELIVERS PSN LECTURE, LAWYERS LAUD HIM AT SIT-OUT

FEATURED

LEGAL LUMINARY, JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN DELIVERS A LECTURE AT THE 2022 MID YEAR MEETING/PUBLIC LECTURE AND PLENARY SESSION OF THE BOARD OF FELLOWS, PHARMACEUTICALS SOCIETY OF NIGERIA

The Board of Fellows of the PCN held their 4th Public Lecture themed “HARNESSING THE POTENTIALS OF FELLOWS OF PROFESSIONAL BODIES IN NIGERIA FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT: PHARMACISTS’ PERSPECTIVE” on 28th June, 2022.

The Lecture, which was chaired by the Hon. Minister of State for Budget & National Planning, Prince Clem Agba, featured a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama as the Guest Speaker.

The Learned Silk, ably represented by a Partner in the law firm of J-K Gadzama LLP, Madu Joe-Kyari Gadzama delivered a rich and insightful paper which was well received by the Fellows who paid rapt attention.

The Chairman, organizing committee Pharm. Ibrahim Tanko Ayuba Fpsn spoke highly of Chief Gadzama and expressed gratitude to him for honouring the Board’s invitation.

In the same vein, the Chairman, Body of Fellows, PSN, Pharm. Dr. Joel E. B. Adagadzu, FPSN, FPCPharm commended the Learned Silk.

The Learned Silk received a standing ovation from members of the high table at the end of the interesting lecture.

The Chairman, Body of fellows Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Pharm. Dr. Joel E.B. Adagadzu FPSN FPCPharm in his vote of thanks, appreciated Chief Gadzama while stating that the body is grateful that the Learned Silk could find time in his busy schedule to honour their invitation. He prayed for the Learned Silk and wished him well in his aspiration.

A President aspirant in the just concluded PDP presidential primaries, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, while presenting an award on behalf of Board, commended the Learned Silk and his representative for an insightful lecture.

FRIENDS OF CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA SPEAK ON HIS CREDIBILITY AT A SIT-OUT SESSION WITH NBA BRANCHES OF KOGI STATE

On Sunday, June 26, 2022, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his friends including His Excellency, Alhaji M.A. Abubakar, (Former Governor of Bauchi State), Mr. Mela Audu Nunghe, SAN, (Former Chairman, NBA Unity Bar), Mr. Mohammed Monguno, (Former Attorney-General of Borno State, Former Chairman, NBA Maiduguri Branch), Chief C.P. Oli (Director-General Vox Populi Foundation for Leadership), Mr. Rex Uzoegbu, Miss Blessing Eyibio, Mr. Martin Kalu, Mr. Hassan Sheriff, (Counsel, J-K Gadzama LLP and Member Young Lawyers’ Group of J-K Gadzama LLP), Mr. Victor Onyekachukwu Ehiosun, (Counsel, J-K Gadzama LLP and Member Young Lawyers’ Group of J-K Gadzama LLP), Miss Farida Lanre-Ipinmisho (Counsel, J-K Gadzama LLP and Member, Women’s Group of J-K Gadzama LLP) and Miss Roseline Ogwuche (Counsel, J-K Gadzama LLP and Member, Women’s Group of J-K Gadzama LLP) were hosted to a sit-out session with members and executives of the NBA Okene, Kabba and Lokoja Branches of Kogi State.

The session kick-started officially with opening remarks being led by Mr. I.O AlHassan (Chairman, NBA Lokoja Branch) who stated that the Bar Patriot, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN was someone who had made laudable contributions to the NBA. “Your contributions precede you. Even before becoming a lawyer, I had always heard of your name and have come to realize and admit that you’re a great man by all standards”, he said, speaking to the Learned Silk. He welcomed all the attendees and members of the Learned Silk’s entourage, reassuring that NBA Kogi State would support the candidacy of the Learned Silk and continue to make efforts towards spreading the news of the Learned Silk’s good aspirations for the Nigerian Bar.

Mr. C.O. Daniel, (Chairman, NBA Kabba Branch) also addressed the attendees saying he was impressed with the contributions of the Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN to the Nigerian Bar. He referred to the Learned Silk as a renowned Patriot of the Nigerian Bar whose commitments spoke volumes.

Mr. Simon Musa welcomed the Learned Silk and addressed attendees on the importance of supporting him. According to him, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN had been a household name and his contributions to the Nigerian Bar; especially the positive inputs made towards improving manner in which the NBA National Executive Council conducts it’s affairs were remarkable.

Mr. Siaka Odege, (Former Chairman, NBA Okene) speaking on behalf of the Okene Branch, thanked the attendees for taking time out to listen to the good aspirations of the Learned Silk for the NBA. He promised to support the cause of Learned Silk and urged everyone to do the same because the Learned Silk was one of them.

Thereafter, His Excellency, Former Governor of Bauchi State, Alhaji M.A Abubakar addressed the attendees. Speaking to them, His Excellency gave an excerpt of his profile saying. He explained that having been called to the Nigerian Bar in 1979 he had not seen anyone who’d given selflessly to the Nigerian Bar like Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN. He said, “…because of this, we fondly call him Mr. Mentorship. The office of J-K is like a mini Nigeria. He is a man who believes in capacity-building and gives everyone equal opportunities”.

Speaking on the credibility of the Learned Silk’s character, a Judge from the High Court of Kogi State refered to him as a colossus; a man of integrity, competence and high professional acumen and discipline.

Mr. Mela Audu Nunghe, SAN speaking on liberating the Nigerian Bar, stated that J-K Gadzama, SAN was a man whose will cannot be bent by political influence or monetary gains. He urged attendees to support the aspirations of J-K Gadzama, SAN because he was the best man for the job.

Mr. Mohammed Monguno, buttressed further on the character of Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN. He said, “…having known J-K for about 40 years, attended the same primary school, university, and then being called to the Nigerian Bar together, I can attest to his impeccable character. J-K. In his office, 65% of lawyers are women and 70% are young lawyers. He is one who has passion to serve, I implore you to please give him the opportunity”.

Chief C.P Oli addressing the gathering asked the young lawyers to vote for someone who had their best interest at heart and had proven himself through impactful contributions overtime. He said, “I worked in the office of J-K as a young man from the South-East, he gave me an opportunity regardless I wasn’t from the North. I grew under his office and today I have my own office with about 20 lawyers working for me. Let us give quality leadership a chance”.

Mr. John Adele, SAN speaking to his colleagues and fellow members of the Lokoja Branch of the NBA explained that being a member of the committee which registered the NBA Lokoja Branch he could attest to the contributions of J-K Gadzama, SAN to NBA Lokoja. He urged the attendees to support him and then ceded the floor to Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN.

Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN thanked all the attendees for coming. He recounted his relationship with the NBA Branches in Kogi State and Kogi State generally; explaining how he started his my primary school education in Kainji, New Busa now in Niger State but Formerly in old Kwara State including Kogi and how his cousin Late Col. Bzigu Lassa Afakirya was became their Military Administrator. According to him, he was back home to ask for the blessings and support of all the members and executives of the NBA Branches. He promised to serve passionate without fear or favour and give equal access to opportunity, participation and continue the good works of Mr. Olumide Akpata.

Closing remarks were given by Mr. Sanusi Liman and closing prayers by Mr. Hassan Sheriff.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 28, 2022
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AKEREDOLU ENDORSES GADZAMA FOR NBA PRESIDENCY

FEATURED

Past President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and incumbent Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu SAN drums support for the man of the people, J-K Gadzama SAN to become the next NBA President.

#JKNOW
#ANALLINCLUSIVEBAR
gadzama.com

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 26, 2022
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GADZAMA HOSTS NEW NBA ABUJA EXCO

THE MAN OF THE PEOPLE, J-K GADZAMA SAN HOSTS THE NEWLY ELECTED EXCOS OF THE NBA-ABUJA BRANCH

On Tuesday, June 21, 2022, the amiable J-K Gadzama SAN hosted the members of the newly elected executive committee of the NBA-Abuja branch. The Excos were led by the indefatigable Afam Okeke Esq who previously worked and cut his teeth under Chief Gadzama’s tutelage.

The hosting was not a surprise as the Learned Silk had continually hosted all elected Excos of the NBA-Abuja branch since 2005.

At the event which took place at the Learned Silk’s Asokoro residence, the past Chairman of the branch, Chief Gadzama stated that it had become a tradition for him to host all Excos of the NBA-Abuja branch. According to him, it was important to continually interact with colleagues and provide motivation for the executives of the branch who he humbly described as his ‘bosses’.

After the remarks by the Learned Silk, senior members of the Bar such as Chief Patrick Okolo SAN – Past Chairman of the NBA-Abuja branch, Chief Ikechukwu Ezechukwu SAN – Past Chairman of the NBA-Abuja branch, Mela Audu Nunghe SAN – Past Chairman of the NBA-Abuja branch and Mohammed Monguno, Esq. – Past Attorney-General of Borno & Chairman of NBA-Maiduguri branch gave short speeches wherein they narrated the history and unity of the branch. They also hailed Chief Gadzama for his magnanimity and constant availability to respond to the needs of the branch.

In response, the Chairman of the branch, Afam Okeke, Esq. thanked Chief Gadzama who he described as a key supporter of the bar for always assisting the branch in all its endeavours. He recounted how the Learned Silk hosted the branch executives while he was the Secretary under the leadership of Desmond Yamah, Esq. He also stated that Chief Gadzama loved the branch and appreciated him for the kind gesture shown towards the newly elected Excos.

It is interesting to note that the newly elected and immediate past chairmen of the branch had worked under Chief Gadzama and enjoyed his revered mentorship at different points in their careers.

As the event went on, the guests ate, dined and relaxed at the event. Incidentally, it was the birthday of Funso Odebode, Esq., the vice-chairman of the branch who was celebrated by the Learned Silk.

Present at the event were the following officers of the NBA-Abuja branch: Funso Odebode, Esq. – Vice Chairman, Isiaka Musa, Esq. – Secretary, Oluwatosin F. Emmanuel, Esq. – Assistant Secretary, Adamma Isamade, Esq. – Welfare Secretary, Michael Awo Ejeh, Esq. – Publicity Secretary, Chinelo Audrey Ofoegbunam, Esq. – Treasurer, Farida Usman, Esq. – Financial Secretary, Simon Kanshio, Esq. – Social Secretary and Emmanuel Utomi, Esq. – Provost. Also present were Francis Oronsaye, Esq. – Managing Partner of J-K Gadzama LLP, Darlington Onyekwere, Esq., Madu Gadzama, Esq., Jerry Musa, Esq., Mark Chidi Agbo, Esq. and Lamar Gadzama, Esq., amongst others.

Other Past Chairmen like Chief Karinya Tunya SAN, Chief Ola Olanipekun SAN, Mr Patrick Ediale, High Chief Muyiwa Akinboro, SAN, and Abimbola Kayode, Esq. sent their apologies.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 23, 2022
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‘WE WILL MAKE YOU NBA PRESIDENT,’ FALANA TELLS GADZAMA

Leading human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana SAN has endorsed Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN for the position of NBA President in the run-up to the forthcoming Nigerian Bar Association Elections.

In a viral video seen by CITY LAWYER, the fiery senior lawyer is seen extolling the virtues of Gadzama, adding that he remains unblemished.

Countdown to July 16, 2022
#JKNOW
#ANALLINCLUSIVEBAR
www.gadzama.com

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 23, 2022
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‘YOU ARE ONE OF US,’ NBA MINNA CHAIR EXTOLS GADZAMA

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JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN HOSTED TO LUNCH TREAT BY THE NBA MINNA BRANCH

On Monday, June 20, 2022 the Learned Silk Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his entourage including Mr. Mohammed Monguno, (Former Attorney-General, Borno State, Former Chairman NBA Maiduguri), Rt. Hon. Adamu Usman, (Former Attorney-General, Niger State and Former Speaker Niger State House of Assembly), Chief Oluwale, Mr. Sunusi Musa, Mr. Nasiru Usman (Chairman, NBA YLF), Mr. A.H Mohammed, Mr. Mark Chidi Agbo, (Junior Partner, J-K Gadzama, LLP), Rashidat Obamojure, Esq. (Senior Associate, J-K Gadzama, LLP, Chairperson, J-K Gadzama LLP Women’s Group), Mr. Hassan Sheriff (Associate J-K Gadzama, LLP) Miss Farida Lanre-Ipinmisho (Counsel, J-K Gadzama LLP), Miss Magai Magaji Aji (Counsel, J-K Gadzama LLP), Miss Rachel Jonathan and Mr. Anthony Ibe paid a courtesy visit to the NBA Minna Branch and had a sit-out session with Young Lawyers, Members and Executives, and FIDA Members at the NBA Minna Branch.

The opening remarks were rendered by Mr. Mohammed Waziri, (Chairman Elect of NBA Minna Branch). In his address the Chairman Elect welcomed the Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his entourage. He commended the impeccable personality of the Learned Silk, saying that the Learned Silk has remained a true Patriot of the Nigerian Bar and had come not just as a visitor but as one of them to share his ideas with the NBA Minna Branch.

Thereafter, he ceded the floor to the anchor who introduced Mr. Mohammed Monguno to address the attendees. Mr. Mohammed Monguno speaking passionately about the Learned Silk Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN said he had known the Learned Silk for a long time; since they were students. He said, “I have known Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and I still know him. He is someone who is resolute hardworking and God-fearing. I believe he can take the NBA to greater heights because I have watched him through the help of God advance his career from the lowest point without the advantage of a silver spoon to the peak of professional achievements. That is why I can speak on his behalf. I urge you all to give him your utmost support”.

Addressing the attendees, Mr. Mark referred to the Learned Silk as one who was not just interested in the professional growth of lawyers under his employment but was also concerned about personal development. He said, the Learned Silk had overtime ensured that his Counsel in the office were sponsored from time to time to take several certifications. He also referred to the Learned Silk as a quintessential Bar Patriot and a father not just to his biological children but his professional children.

Rashidat Obamojure, Esq. buttressed the Learned Silk’s ingenuity and fairness in handling issues in the office, (J-K Gadzama LLP). She described the Learned Silk as one who was fair to all regardless of religion, tribe or gender. According to her, about 65% of the Counsel in his office were female lawyers and the office had a women’s group known as Women’s Group of J-K Gadzama LLP. She urged the members of FIDA to support the Learned Silk in charting the course of the NBA.

Rt. Hon. Adamu Usman addressing the attendees, referred to J-K Gadzama, SAN as a true friend who always provided assistance when beckoned on. He recounted how he had been assisted several times by the Learned Silk. In his words, “J-K Gadzama, SAN is someone you all can trust and I believe he is most qualified for the job”.

Finally, the Learned addressed the attendees thanking them for their patience and kind gesture in hosting and accepting him as one of them. He said the meeting was not one for many speeches and as such he would adopt his manifesto and curriculum vitae as uploaded and shared on the website gadzama.com whilst mentioning a few things. He explained that there were no constraints on his ability to serve having amassed several achievements and gained experience through relentless service to the Nigerian Bar. In his words, “…the Nigerian Bar made me, I want reciprocate by serving the Bar in the highest possible capacity, give back to my colleagues and take the Nigerian Bar to higher heights by implementing new initiatives while continuing the good work of Mr. Olumide Akpata”. He thanked the audience for their rapt attention and prayed for God’s blessings for the Nigerian Bar.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 23, 2022
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GADZAMA FRIENDSHIP CENTRE OPENS IN LAGOS

FRIENDS OF J-K GADZAMA SAN SET UP FRIENDSHIP CENTER FOR LAWYERS IN LAGOS

Friends of J-K Gadzama SAN have set up a friendship center for lawyers in Lagos which will be in place daily from Mondays to Fridays effective from Thursday, 23rd June, 2022 from 6pm – 8:00pm at the J-K GADZAMA LLP Lagos office located at No. 2 Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi. A similar friendship center was recently set up at the Hon Justice SMA Belgore Hall, J-K Gadzama Court, Abuja.

The Friendship Centre is free and open to all lawyers. It is designed to create a daily avenue for lawyers to network, relax, unwind and enjoy themselves in a convivial atmosphere as there promises to be light music,, finger foods, drinks etc to aid relaxation and ease stress for the day’s job.

The initiators have also confirmed that there will be free body/health checks like blood pressure, blood sugar level, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), temperature etc. for lawyers.

Lawyers in Lagos are enjoined to indulge, network and socialize maximally as the Friendship Centre kicks off by 6:30pm on Thursday, 23rd June, 2022 at J-K GADZAMA LLP Lagos office located at No. 2 Bourdillon Road, Ikoyi. It promises to be fun all the way.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 23, 2022
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GADZAMA HAILS NBA BARNAWA FOR ACCEPTING HIM

FEATURED

JOE-KYARI GADZAMA SAN ALONGSIDE EMINENT ENTOURAGE ATTENDS NBA BARNAWA 2022 LAW WEEK, DELIVERS GOODWILL MESSAGE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY

On Monday, June 20, 2022, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN attended the Opening Ceremony of the NBA Barnawa Branch (Model Branch) 2022 Annual Law Week, themed: Understanding the Electoral Act, 2022, held at the Jay Hiltin Hotel, 37 Libya Street, Barnawa, Kaduna State.

The Chairman of the Opening Ceremony was Muhammad Tukur Muazu Aliyu, the Acting Chief Judge of Kaduna State. Chief Gadzama delivered a Goodwill Message immediately after the Welcome Address by the Chairman of the Branch, Mr. Abdullahi Yahaya SAN.

Chief Gadzama appreciated the Branch for accepting him, and further commended the theme for the Law Week “Understanding the Electoral Act, 2022” as being very apt and relevant, considering the electioneering period the country is presently in and the attendant intrigues that come with it.

Accompanying Chief Gadzama to the NBA Barnawa Branch 2022 Law Week were Mr Mohammed Mongonu, the former Attorney-General of Borno State and Former Chairman Maiduguri Branch, Senior Lawyer Sunusi Musa of NBA Kano Branch, Hassan Sherif Esq of the NBA Abuja Branch, and an active member of the NBA SPIDEL and majority leader of the Democracy Africa Youth Parliament, Mr. Nasir Saidu Esq.

From the NBA Suleja Branch were Mr. Muhammad Hassan Adamu Esq, Mr Nasiru Usman Esq (YLF Chairman NBA Suleja Branch), Sagir Salisu Esq, and Abraham Favour Esq from the NBA Minna Branch. There was also Jummai Musa Esq of the NBA Kaduna Branch amongst a host of others.

Present at the event were the Hon. Justice A. M Talba JCA of the Court of Appeal, Kaduna Division. Hon Justice Abdulrahman Umar Abubakar, the Grand Khadi Kaduna State Sharia Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Danlami Garba, the President, Customary Court of Appeal, Kaduna State. And the representative of the Keynote Speaker, Mr. Elisah Kurah, SAN amongst a host of other eminent personalities.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 21, 2022
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NBA ELECTIONS: EBONYI LAWYERS ENDORSE GADZAMA

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GADZAMA, SAN CAMPAIGN RECEIVES A BOOST AS ASSOCIATION OF EBONYI STATE LAWYERS IN LAGOS ENDORSED HIS CANDIDACY, PROMISED TO WORK FOR HIM

The campaign trail of Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN received an impetus on Saturday, June 19, 2022 when the Association of Ebonyi State Lawyers in Lagos State endorsed Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN as the best and preferred presidential candidate for the forthcoming NBA election. This decision was arrived at when members of the Association present at the meeting took turn to apprise the pedigree and records of Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN.

It was said that many young lawyers have benefitted from the professional training and mentorship programmes which Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN has been relentlessly carrying on over the years, this records clearly show that J-K Gadzama is passionate about the growth and development of young lawyers in Nigeria. There is therefore no doubt that Joe-Kyari Gadzama is pro young lawyers and has the competence and capability to continue from where Mr. Akpata led Administration stops.

Sharing the antecedents of the Association, the Chairman of the Association, Mr. Agbafo Ogbonnaya narrated how the Association endorsed the candidacy of the present President of the NBA Mr. Olumide Akpata in 2020 and Mr. Akpata has not disappointed them. He said having assessed the all the candidates vying for the NBA presidency, Chief Gadzama, SAN stands tall and above others and it is clear that he is the only one with competence and capability to lead the Bar at this critical moment.

After deliberations, it was unanimously agreed and resolved that every member of the Association will not only vote for Chief Gadzama, SAN but will also work for his victory in the forthcoming election.

In confirmation of the resolution, members present at the meeting sang a special song which Mr. Kunle Ogunba, SAN crafted for Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN.

J-K Now, J-K Now Now!!!

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 21, 2022
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KADUNA BAR QUAKES OVER GRAND DINNER FOR GADZAMA

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THE PRIMUS INTER PARES AMONGST CONTESTANTS FOR THE NBA PRESIDENCY, JOE-KYARI GADZAMA SAN, HIS EMINENT ENTOURAGE, DINE AND PARTY WITH THE KADUNA BAR IN GRAND STYLE

On Sunday, June 19, 2022, the Friends of Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN organized a Dinner Party which hosted the members of the Kaduna Bar, alongside the amiable Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN, and the teeming members of his eminent entourage some of whom are from the NBA Abuja Branch, the NBA Kano Branch, the NBA Kafanchan Branch, the NBA Zaria Branch, the NBA Funtua Branch, the NBA Katsina Branch and the NBA Suleja Branch, amongst others.

Also in attendance were eminent members and Bar leaders from the Kaduna Bar such as Ustaz Yunus Usman, SAN, Mr. Sani Katu SAN and Mr Tajudeen Oladoja SAN. Others were Mr. M.T Muhammed (the Chairman NBA Kaduna Branch), Ms Julie Ariahu Esq, Ms. Juliet Agada Esq, Mr. Musa Kakaki Esq, Mr. Maxwell Kyon (Secretary, Kaduna Branch), Mr. Ahmed Abdulrazaq Idowu Esq, Mr. Mustapha Haruna (the PRO NBA Kaduna Branch).

The entourage from the NBA Kano Branch included the amiable Mr. Sunusi Musa Esq, Mr. A.A. Sani Esq. Miss Hadiza Nasir Ahmed Esq. Mr. Adamu Ishaq Esq, Mr. Nura Yusuf Garba, amongst others. Mr. Hassan Sherif Esq, a young lawyer from the NBA Abuja Branch was also a part of the Chief Gadzama’s entourage.

Some of the Members of the Chief Gadzama ’s entourage from the NBA Zaria Branch, include Ms. Aisha Ismail Damisa Esq, A.Y Mohammed Esq, Sani Musa Esq, Abigail Daniel Esq, Umma Sani Salihu Esq, Hajara Adamu Esq.

The entourage from the NBA Funtua Branch included: Lawal Amah Esq, B.F Abdullahi Esq, Tijanni Magagi Esq (the Secretary NBA Funtua Branch), Anas Aminu Esq, Zainab Abdulrahim, Mahadi Abdul Salam, Umar Hassan, Nazir Suleiman, Isah Haruna, Ibrahim Saidu, Ahmed Abubakar, Abubakar Abdul Salam.

From the NBA Katsina Branch, was Mr. S.Y Wurma (the Past Secretary). From the NBA Suleja Branch were Mr. Muhammad Hassan Adamu Esq, Mr Nasiru Usman Esq (YLF Chairman NBA Suleja Branch), Sagir Salisu, Abraham Favour Esq and Nasiru Saidu.

Some of the Members of the NBA Barnawa Branch were: Mr. Alhassan Aliyu Esq. (Provost), Halima Sadiya Shabi Esq, Jane Dike, Cynthia C. Cypriot Esq., D.I Audu Esq., Emmanuel Ejim Esq, Lawrence Otaha, Esq.

Members of the NBA Kafanchan Branch present include Mr. W.D. Kadina (a Bar Leader), Adams Nathan, C. Abba Esq, Luka Maza Junior, Audu Bobra, N. R. Yam, Ankuma Yem.

Speaking at the Events was Uztaz Yunuz Usman SAN who noted that Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama is “totally qualified” and that “Kaduna is known for always choosing the best” and that if Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama becomes the next President, he “should continue to be a Leader and not a Ruler”. Mr. Mohammed Sani Katu SAN gave a remark welcoming the Chief Gadzama and his entourage to Kaduna State and its branch of the NBA. Mr. Tajudeen Oladoja SAN also extended his felicitations and was ever happy to offer words of advice and encouragement to especially the younger members of the Bar present, thereafter welcoming Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN. The Chairman NBA Kaduna Branch, Mr. M.T Muhammed also gave his remark, welcoming the Chief Gadzama amiably to the Kaduna Bar.

Members of the Chief Gadzama’s entourage also gave their remark. Mr. Mohammed Monguno, the Former Attorney-General Borno State and former Chairman of NBA Maiduguri Branch emphasized that J-K has a track record of consistent service to the Bar, having served in numerous capacities, including as Pioneer Chairman, NBA-SPIDEL (2006-2010), Pioneer Vice-Chairman NBA SLP, Pioneer Council Member, NBA-SBL, Former Chairman, NBA- Abuja [Unity Bar] (2002-2004), Pioneer Chairman and the NBA- Security Agencies Relations Committee amongst several others.

Senior lawyer Mr. Sanusi Musa noted that Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN is a prepared candidate. Mr Sunusi advised in his ever-charismatic manner that members of the Branches present should “follow person wey sabi road” that of all candidates, “na J-K sabi road pass” and that his antecedents speak for him. Mr. Sunusi further urged that at such a critical time as this, the NBA cannot afford to have leaders that do not know what Bar leadership is all about.

Mr. A. A. Sani, Esq. a senior lawyer from the NBA Kano Branch enumerated the numerous selfless contributions of Chief Gadzama to the development of the legal profession in Nigeria. He cited that Chief Gadzama had over the years been consistent in his quest at improving the capacity of lawyers through continuing legal education, especially for the young lawyers through his Annual Lectures currently in its 13th Edition and Mentoring Programs currently in its 7th edition.

Mr. Samson Audu, the immediate Past Chairman of the NBA Kaduna Branch was especially emphatic in his remarks about Chief Gadzama. He noted that the Chief Gadzama had paid his dues and was especially a friend of the NBA – Kaduna Branch having actively participated consistently in the Branch’s previous activities over the years.

Ms. Julie Ariahu Esq, the Vice-Chairperson, Kaduna Branch, International Federation of Women Lawyer (FIDA), also appreciated Chief Gadzama, and thereafter welcomed him and his entourage.

Just before addressing the gathering, Chief Gadzama took a bow, felicitated and appreciated everyone for such a warm reception and thereafter gave a remark which earned him several ovations, cheers and applauses from the members of the NBA Branches present. Chief Gadzama particularly noted that though other candidates for the position of the NBA- Presidency may be qualified, he was the prime candidate for the job and the candidate to beat being the primus inter pares amongst his other fellow contestants.

Chief Gadzama thereafter treated everyone present to prime vintage dance steps much to the amazement of all. “Young at heart”, he called himself. He dance for hours tirelessly and far into the night with everyone and anyone, male and female, old and young, entrenching further, even on a lighter note, the mantra he preaches: “An All-Inclusive Bar”.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 21, 2022
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‘SULEJA FRIENDS OF JK’ HOST GADZAMA TO LUNCH

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SULEJA FRIENDS OF GADZAMA HOST CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA SAN AND ENTOURAGE TO AN INTERACTIVE LUNCH SIT-OUT

On June 19, 2022, Suleja Friends of Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN hosted Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN and members of his entourage to lunch at Yankee’s Hotel, Suleja, Niger State. This afforded an interactive platform between members of the NBA-Suleja Branch, the Young Lawyer Forum (YLF) of the NBA Suleja Branch and the Niger Chapter of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) all on the one hand, and the ever amiable Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN and members of his entourage,m on the other hand, at the Yankee’s Hotel, Suleja, Niger State.

The Learned Silk had amongst his entourage, Mr. Muhammad Mongonu, the former Chairman NBA Maiduguri Branch and Former Attorney-General of Borno State, Mr. Sanusi Musa Esq, the Senior Lawyer, Mr, Nasir Saidu and Mr Hassan Sherif, Esq, amongst a host of others.

Speaking at the event organised in honour of Chief Gadzama, Mr Mohammed Tanko Zakari, a Bar leader of the NBA Suleja Branch welcomed the Learned Silk. Mr. E U Iorna, a former NEC Member for the NBA Suleja Branch, offered the opening prayer.

Speaking further during his welcome remarks, Mr. Mohammed Tanko Zakari noted that the Learned Silk is well represented in the Branch and that there was no doubt that “J-K is a household name and the right candidate to lead the Bar”. He emphasized that the Learned Silk was not at the Branch for the campaign but for an interactive session. He concluded that “With J-K, NBA Suleja is in safer hand”.

Thereafter the Learned Silk introduced the members of his entourage which included the Former Chairman NBA Maiduguri Branch and Attorney-General of Borno State, Mr. Muhammed Monguno Esq, Senior Lawyer and Lead Coordinator, Northwest, Vox Populi Foundation, Mr Sanusi Musa Esq and Mr. Hassan Sherif, Esq amongst others.

Speaking to the members of the NBA- Suleja Branch, Mr. Mohammed Mongonu, Esq, the Former Attorney General of Borno State narrated that the Learned Silk’s several selfless instances of service to the bar. He stated that Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN is a man who stands for fairness, and professional excellence and was supremely ready to serve the Bar. He further stated that the Learned Silk is recognized and honoured in all parts of Nigeria; in the Western part as the Bobajiro of Akure Kingdom, in his hometown as the Sardauna of Uba, And more recently as the Shettima of Borno, and in the Eastern region as the Okwuluora of Ukpo. He further stated that the Learned Silk has been recognized even by the Federal Republic of Nigeria having been honoured with the title of OFR and MFR and that the Learned Silk’s accomplishments and qualifications are unquestionable, same as his unwavering commitment to the development of the legal profession.

Mr. Sanusi Musa urged the members of the NBA Suleja Branch to “follow person wey sabi road” that of all candidates, “na J-K sabi road pass” and that his antecedents speak for him. Mr. Sanusi noted that at such a critical time as this, the NBA cannot afford to have leaders that do not know what Bar leadership is all about.

Also addressing the gathering, Mr. A. M Idris, the former Chairman of NBA Suleja Branch noted that “the best man for the job now …is J-K “. E.U Iorna, described the Learned Silk as an “Abraham Lincoln” and “John Cena”, due to his never-say-die attitude, doggedness and tireless nature.

Mr. Ibrahim Bako, a chairmanship candidate for the NBA Suleja, noted that people should not catapult themselves into positions of authority without adequate and necessary preparations. He stated that Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN’s antecedents show that he is indeed a prepared candidate. He passionately noted that “we must look at pedigree, in 2016, when I was the NBA Suleja Branch Secretary, J-K requested that the NBA Suleja Branch send 10 lawyers for mentorship ” this according to Mr. Bawa shows that Chief Gadzama is a mentor, adequately prepared to take up the role of leadership. “If you want a Bar you will be proud of, vote for a prepared candidate, J-K Gadzama is a prepared candidate” he concluded.

A representative of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Niger Branch, Sadiya Muhammed spoke, praising the Learned Silk for his efforts and strides. Mrs Fatimah Muhammed, a member of the NBA Suleja Branch and FIDA stated that she was privileged to read the Learned Silk’s manifesto, especially the part that pertains to the remuneration for young lawyers, she appreciated the learned silk for making the young lawyers a priority,

Mr. Buhari Saidu Adamu, also of the NBA Suleja Branch noted that “J-K is not only ready to lead the Bar, but lead the Bar successfully and competently”. And that the members of the NBA- Suleja Branch will kowtow and vote for the Learned Silk.

The Vote of Thanks was given by an active member of the NBA SPIDEL and majority leader of Democracy Africa Youth Parliament, Mr. Nasir Saidu, who appreciated M. T Zakari And the NBA Suleja Branch, the YLF NBA Suleja Branch, for finding J-K worthy. Mr Muhammed Auwal thereafter offered the closing prayer.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 20, 2022
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GADZAMA SHINES AT ELLAN PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE

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JOE-KYARI GADZAMA SAN SHOWS THAT HE IS INDEED THE PRIMUS INTER PARES AT THE ELLAN PRESIDENTIAL EXCHANGE

On Friday, June 17, 2022, the Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN was privileged to participate in the ELLAN (Employment and labour Lawyers Association of Nigeria) Presidential exchange.

The Learned Silk passionately answered the questions thrown to him during the debate which were tailored towards the wellbeing of lawyers – an area he remains passionate about.

On sexual harassment, he stated that young lawyers should always speak up and have adequate evidence backing up any allegation. Thereafter, he assured young lawyers that adequate protection will be given to them. Furthermore, he stated that strict punishment such as disbarment will be imposed on the culprits as such an act tarnishes the image of our noble profession. The Learned Silk re-emphasized that he will make sure that such acts are unheard of in the legal profession.

The Learned Silk, during the debate, stated that he believes that in the making of silk, what should be highlighted is whether the applicant has met all the requirements. If the applicant has met all the requirements, he should thus be made Silk. He concluded by advocating that all who have met the criteria should be made Silk, no matter the number.

The Learned Silk when asked a question on the amendment of the RPC stated that he is of the view that the rules should be amended as there were many challenges which were not addressed by the RPC such as the empowerment of lawyers to enable them earn a living outside the normal confinement of the legal profession. He opined that this is inconsistent with the mandate of the NBA which allows the NBA to create wealth and empower members within the parameters of the law.

The Learned Silk during the debate reiterated the well-known fact that the protection of lawyers from the abuse of law enforcement agencies is his priority.

On the question of how the renumeration of lawyers can be improved, the learned Silk stated that the young lawyers do a lot of work in law firms and are talented but they are not adequately appreciated. He stated that the time has come for them to be adequately appreciated by sufficient remuneration.

Furthermore he stated that a minimum pay should be stipulated for the profession.

In his closing remarks, Learned Silk stated that the other two candidates and presidential aspirants are qualified to be the next NBA President but he is the first among equals – the primus inter pares, the right person to lead the bar. He mentioned that this is due to the fact that the bar needs a person who is courageous, fearless and who will adequately fight for the independence of the Bar and the Judiciary.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 20, 2022
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‘WELFARE OF YOUNG LAWYERS MY TOP PRIORITY,’ SAYS GADZAMA

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“THE WELFARE OF YOUNG LAWYERS IS OF PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE TO ME” JOE-KYARI GADZAMA SAN DECLARES IN HIS MANIFESTO VYING FOR THE OFFICE OF THE NBA PRESIDENT

On Friday, June 17, 2022, the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) unveiled the manifesto of Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN who is contesting for the office of the NBA President in the forthcoming elections.

The Foundation of the Learned Silk’s manifesto is continuity and innovation. It encapsulates the eminent silk’s vision to take the Nigerian Bar Association to the next level. A level of greatness, effectiveness, transparency and accountability. Some of the Learned Silk’s intentions for the bar as contained in his manifesto are:

1. Improving young lawyers’ remuneration;

2. Inclusion of the Chairman of the Young Lawyers Forum as a NEC Member;

3. Mentorship for Young Lawyers;

4. Improving Lawyers’ Entitlements by Paying Practising Fees;

5. Stopping the Infiltration of the Legal Profession by Non-Lawyers;

6. Ensuring the Security of Lawyers;

7. Improving Lawyers’ Access to Finance;

8. Inclusion of Corporate/ In House Counsel in Affairs of the NBA;

9. Creating an education fund for lawyers;

10. Improving the Welfare of Law Teachers;

11. Improving the Welfare of Law Officers;

12. Ensuring Speedy Dispensation of Justice;

13. Promoting a Tech-Savvy Judiciary;

14. Protecting the Interest of Lawyers with Special Needs;

15. Sexual and Gender-Based Violence/ Promotion of Gender Balance;

16. Ensuring Electoral Reforms; and

17. Promotion of Public Interest Litigation.

Indeed, it is evident that the Learned Silk’s administration will lead to an all-inclusive bar wherein the legal profession and its members will thrive.

For more information please visit https://gadzama.com/

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 18, 2022
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GADZAMA UNVEILS OFFICIAL CAMPAIGN VIDEO

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PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE OF THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION, JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN UNVEILS HIS OFFICIAL CAMPAIGN VIDEO

On Friday, June 17, 2022, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN released a captivating and passionate video stipulating his plans for the advancement of the Nigerian Bar Association.

In the said video, the renowned bar patriot who has dedicated his life to the service of the bar highlighted his vision for the bar and stated the reasons why he is the best candidate for the position. It is no secret that the eminent silk has served the bar in different sections and various capacities and his contribution to the growth of the legal profession is commendable and inspirational. The Learned Silk’s exceptional track record of excellence indeed makes him the best man for the job.

The Learned Silk as man who speaks truth to power also promised to continue the good works of his learned colleague, Mr. Olumide Akpata.

Kindly watch the video at www.gadzama.com to learn more about the Learned Silk and his plans.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 17, 2022
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GADZAMA VISITS LAGOS AG, VOWS BAR ACTIVISM

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GADZAMA, SAN PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO AG OF LAGOS, PLEDGES LOYALTY TO NBA CONSTITUTION, RULE OF LAW AND YEARNINGS OF MEMBERS.

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN on Tuesday, June 14, 2022 paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN at the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Alausa Secretariat.

The visit of the foremost Senior Advocate to the Lagos State Ministry of Justice is one of his consultations and familiarizations tour to all stakeholders as NBA prepares for her general elections next month. Whilst making his remark, Chief Gadzama, SAN reiterated the need for the Bar to be alive to its duties as enshrined in the NBA Constitution, observe the tenets of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and see to the welfare of all members of the Bar. He stated that the Bar needs a leader who understands the challenges of the Bar and has the capacity, experience and will to tackle them headlong.

Whilst restating his vision to lift the Bar to a higher standard, Chief Gadzama, SAN said the visit is necessary for him to present himself as a candidate for the post of the NBA President and it is important to formally inform the Honourable Attorney General and the entire management of the Ministry of Justice. In his words, “I have the requisite experience to lead the Bar having served the NBA in various capacities; a pioneer Council Member of NBA Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) under the chairmanship of Mr. George Etomi, a pioneer vice-chairman of NBA Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP) under the chairmanship of Mallam Yusuf Ali, SAN and a Pioneer Chairman of NBA Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) now being ably led by Dr. Monday O. Ubani, a former Chairman of NBA Abuja (Unity) Branch and due to my passion for mentorship and professional training for young lawyers, I was appointed as the Chairman, Mentorship Committee of the Body of Benchers for Young Lawyers due to the annual mentorship programme I organize for young lawyers. I have a moot Courtroom in my head office in Abuja purposely built to expose Law School Externs and University undergraduates to Courtroom advocacy. I am a bridge builder between the older lawyers and young colleagues, I am physically fit, mentally, emotionally and spiritually prepared for the task of leading the Bar.”

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Justice, the Honourable Attorney General commended Chief Gadzama, SAN for all his contributions to the Bar and development of law in Nigeria, he assured him that it is customary for the Ministry to welcome all candidates vying for one position or the other in the NBA and the doors of the Ministry is open to Chief Gadzama, SAN. Present at the meeting include some top management members of staff including Mr. S. A Quadri, Mrs. Abiola Olayinka, Mrs. Adenike Oluwafemi, Mrs. Folasade Tugbiyele, Kehinde Taiwo, Bose Fasinde and other State Counsel.

Chief Gadzama appreciated the AG for the audience and warm reception and promised, as the time permits, to reschedule his visit to address all lawyers in the Ministry. Members of Chief Gadzama’s entourage include Mr. Kunle Ogunba, SAN, Mr. Chukwuma Ezeala, Otunba Martins Ogunleye, (former Chairman of Lagos Branch) Mrs. Chioma Ferguson (former Chairman of Surulere Lawyers Forum), Mr. Moshood Abiola (immediate past secretary of NBA, Lagos Branch) and Mr. Oluniyi Adediji, Junior Partner at J-K Gadzama LLP.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 16, 2022
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‘LAWYERS MUST USE PHONES IN POLICE STATIONS,’ SAYS GADZAMA

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LAWYERS SHOULD BE ALLOWED ENTRY TO POLICE FORMATIONS WITH THEIR MOBILE PHONES – JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN

On Thursday, June 16, 2022, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN who is the incumbent Chairman of NBA-Security Agency Relations Committee (NBA-SARC) and the Pioneer Chairman of NBA-Section on Public Interest & Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL), penned down an appeal to the inspector General of Police requesting that lawyers should be allowed entry with their mobile phones to all police formations across the country.

It is common knowledge that we now live in a digital world and accordingly, lawyers require their mobile phones to perform their daily business activities. The trend of dropping off phones by lawyers at collection points established by the police force and other security agencies renders a lawyer almost ineffective as they are not able to deliver and communicate with their clients during the period of time spent at the police formations or security agencies.

While acknowledging the mutual relationship between the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Bar Association as champions in the fight against corruption and injustice in the country, the Learned Silk in his letter solemnly requested for the urgent intervention by issuing a written notice from the office of the Inspector General of Police for compliance on this matter as it will aid in adding positive value to the daily work activities of lawyers.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 16, 2022
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‘GADZAMA FRIENDSHIP CENTRE’ OPENS FOR LAWYERS IN ABUJA

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FRIENDS OF J-K GADZAMA SAN, SET UP FRIENDSHIP CENTER FOR LAWYERS IN ABUJA.

Friends of J-K Gadzama SAN have set up a friendship center for lawyers in Abuja which will be in place daily from Mondays to Fridays effective from Thursday, 16th June, 2022 from 6pm – 8:00pm at the SMA Belgore Hall, Ground Floor, J-K Gadzama Court, Garki 2, Abuja. The Friendship Centre is free and open to all lawyers.

It is designed to create a daily avenue for lawyers to network, relax, unwind and enjoy themselves in a convivial atmosphere as there promises to be light music, small chops, finger foods, drinks etc to aid relaxation and ease stress for the day’s job.

The initiators have also confirmed that there will be free body/health checks like blood pressure, blood sugar level, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), temperature etc. for lawyers.

Lawyers in Abuja are enjoined to indulge, network and socialize maximally as the Friendship Centre kicks off by 6pm on Thursday, 16th June, 2022 at J-K Gadzama Court, Garki 2, Abuja. It promises to be fun all the way.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 15, 2022
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‘WE WILL ISSUE CODE ON LAWYER SAFETY SOON,’ GADZAMA TELLS NBA-NEC

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ENCOMIUMS AS THE JOE-KYARI GADZAMA-LED NBA-SARC PRESENTS ITS REPORT TO NBA-NEC, MAKES BOLD RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPROVED SAFETY OF LAWYERS

At the Nigerian Bar Association – National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, held at Ilorin on Thursday, June 9, 2022, the chairman of the NBA- Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC), Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN, presented the report of the NBA- SARC, highlighting the streak of successes, strives, strides and achievements of the NBA-SARC, in less than 6 months of its inauguration, stating that within the period of six months of the inauguration of the NBA-SARC, the Committee has successfully intervened in over 15 cases involving legal practitioners and security agencies across the country.

Chief Gadzama stated further that apart from the NBA-SARC’s interventions, it has also organised a Townhall Sensitization Webinar where it created awareness of its mandates. On Saturday, February 19, 2022, the NBA-SARC also organized a roundtable discussion with executives of the NBA branches and thereafter followed up with a virtual townhall sensitization for young lawyers, this is to create a consciousness of its mandate and also to discuss issues bothering on safety and welfare of legal practitioners.

The NBA-SARC has also participated in the CLEEN Foundation Methodology Workshop ahead of the Police Reform Audit in Nigeria, an event which was held on May 18, 2022, at the NBA-Secretariat, among a host of other events participated in, aim at championing improved welfare for the Nigerian Lawyers.

Speaking passionately, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama said there was a lot more to do as he itemized the several upcoming programs of the NBA-SARC. He noted that the NBA-SARC has also lined up a series of other hybrid programs, physical and online, directed at the sensitization of both personnel of security agencies and legal practitioners, viz Webinars, Workshops, Courtesy Visits, et al. tailored, ultimately, for an improved efficient and cordial relations with security agencies across the country, focally including the Nigerian Police Force.

In the NBA-SARC’s report as presented by Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN, the following far-reaching recommendations for the improved safety of the Nigerian lawyers were made:

1. Subcommittees of the NBA-SARC at each of the 125 branches of the NBA: That in line with the mandates of the NBA-SARC to work with the various branches of the NBA to achieve, at the branch level, its objectives, there is plan to raise subcommittees of the NBA-SARC at each of the 125 branches of the NBA, comprised of 5 to 15 members of the Young Lawyers’ Forum (YLF), to be headed by the Chairmen of the YLF of each branch, and the National Chairman of the NBA YLF, to be co-opted to our Committee.

Chief Gadzama explained that this will provide a prompt complaint platform, more easily accessible to members of the NBA, at the various branch level. This will also help in the collation of harassment cases and intimidation against lawyers by security agencies, and importantly, the urgency with which they are dealt with. It is also worthy of note that the YLF provides an arsenal that can be empowered by the NBA to help in the fight against human rights abuses, thereby promoting public interest lawyering.

2. Wider membership of NBA-SARC to include Representatives of the Law Enforcement Agencies: The NBA-SARC Chairman explained that the importance of having all hands on deck for the NBA-SARC and the NBA to consistently take the lead in the safety and welfare of all legal practitioners across the country. That there was a dire need for a broadened membership of the NBA-SARC to include representatives of the Law Enforcement Agencies who are Legal Officers that are part and parcel of the NBA as qualified legal practitioners within the public sector. This will further foster a harmonious relationship with these respective law enforcement agencies.

3. Preparation of a Code of Engagement for Lawyers in their Relations with Law Enforcement Agencies: Chief Gadzama explained that one of the mandates of the NBA-SARC is to “develop and promote proper protocols for engagement with security agencies by lawyers, in the course of carrying out their professional duties”. That the Committee has noted the need for a code that provides guidelines and/or protocols to aid lawyers in proper engagement with security agencies in the course of carrying out professional duties.

4. Need for the NBA-SARC to be a Standing Committee: The NBA-SARC Chairman explained that the NBA-SARC presently liaises with these security agencies with a view to stemming the ugly trend of harassment of legal practitioners and engendering a harmonious and mutually beneficial working relationship between members of the NBA and members of the various Security Agencies. This, Chief Gadzama, explained as an ongoing process and bridges of trust and mutual respect are presently being built. That as with bridges, it takes consistency, hard work planning and strategy to build. If the present drive to ensure the welfare and safety of legal practitioners is to be further entrenched and strengthened, that there is an urgent need to make the NBA-SARC a Standing Committee of the NBA so that there is continuity in the works of the Committee, so that the efforts made so far, do not go down the drain and that the momentum set by this Akpata-led administration is sustained.

5. The Need for Yearly Workshop or Town Hall meeting with Law Enforcement Agencies: The successes recorded at the 1st Hybrid Townhall Meeting of the NBA-SARC held on the 5th day of April, 2022, at the Auditorium of the NBA National Secretariat, Abuja should be sustained. Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama explained that the floodgate of feedback at the said maiden Hybrid Meeting, jointly emphasize the need for frequent liaisons and/or interaction between the Bar and the security agencies and that there was a need for more of such meetings to foster a cordial relationship between the NBA and security agencies across Nigeria. The Gadzama-led Committee has therefore reiterated the need for a yearly workshop and/or Town-hall meeting with law enforcement agencies across the country.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 15, 2022
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GADZAMA AT FIDA LAW WEEK, LAUDS EFFORTS ON CHILD RIGHTS

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JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN ATTENDS OPENING SESSION OF FIDA LAGOS LAW WEEK 2022.

Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN, a well-known supporter and advocate for women’s rights, Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Candidate for the Office of the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, in his continuing support of women and women Lawyers was in attendance at the opening ceremony of FIDA (International Federation of Women Lawyers) Lagos Branch, held at the Institute of International Affairs, VI, Lagos, today 14/6/22

The Learned silk in his goodwill message to the group of women Lawyers, beamed with pride at the progress of branch in tackling issues against women and children in Lagos state and congratulated the members of FIDA Lagos branch on the choice of theme for the Law Week: “EDUCATION as a catalyst for boosting the self-image of the African Child”.

In his opinion, the very need to secure the rights of an African Child cannot be overemphasized as Africa has been challenged with the lack of good leadership, poverty, and degradation of persons majorly women and children who are pushed into trafficking. Sensitization of the African Child is a strong tool which can enlighten the African Child most especially the Girl Child to their endless world of possibilities in developing and securing their self-image as well as an enviable future profitable to the African continent and the world.

Chief J-K Gadzama,SAN went further to commend the Chairman, executives and members of the branch for taking him as one of theirs and for their numerous sacrifices and constructive efforts in moving the branch forward and assured the branch of his continuing support always.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 14, 2022
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GADZAMA STORMS NBA BWARI DINNER, MAKURDI, BENIN BRANCH

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J-K WE KNOW! – JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN JOLLIES WITH THE NBA BWARI BRANCH (CRADLE BAR), RECEIVES AWARD OF HONOUR AT HER 2022 LAW WEEK DINNER

It is often said that the fondest memories are made around the table, and what makes a table feel like home is when it is shared with those you consider family. Perhaps, taking a cue from the aphorism, the jovial Bar Patriot, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN on Wednesday, June 9, 2022 joined the members of the NBA Bwari Branch at their Annual Law Week Dinner.

The event which was attended by many members and executives of the Branch, Elders of the Bar, former executives, Young Lawyers’ Group, J-K Gadzama LLP and Women’s Group of J-K Gadzama LLP, came alive with the opening remarks of the NBA Bwari Branch Chairman, Mr. Monday Adjeh who amongst many other things thanked the attendees for deeming it necessary to take out the time to wine, dine and dance with their colleagues at the Nigerian Bar. He recognized the presence of Past Branch Chairmen, Elders and the Director-General of the Nigerian Law school ably represented, reiterated his thanks and appreciation and urged everyone to feel free and have a good time.

The master of ceremony, thrilled the audience to a good laugh and hearty cheers with a comedy performance and an interactive game session. Highlight of the event was the opening of the dance floor by the Chairman of Branch. Other members and executives then joined him on the dancefloor in the euphoria of merriment. The jovial Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN then stepped in with his friends including, Mr. Mohammed Monguno, (Former Attorney-General, Borno State, Former Chairman NBA Maiduguri Branch), Mr. Darligton Onyekwere, (Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP). As the Learned Silk’s presence was announced, members of the Cradle Bar welcomed him with hearty cheers of “J-K we know!”.

The Learned Silk and Bar Patriot in his usual gleeful demeanor took to the dancefloor with his vintage moves and more lawyers joined in the thrill of the moment with more chants of “J-K we know!”. Mr. Chukwuemeka Clement, fondly called Democrat (Former Chairman, NBA Bwari Branch) welcomed the Learned Silk and led him to his table.

The dinner which had been scheduled as a closing ceremony for their 2022 Law Week which began on June 3, 2022, coincidentally marked the one year anniversary since the Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN christened the Branch as the Cradle Bar.

Attendees were treated to a sumptuous delicacies after which awards were presented to some members of the Branch for their outstanding service and contributions to the growth of the Nigerian Bar, Bwari Branch. Amongst many others, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN was also presented with an award of honour. Receiving the award from Mr. B.O Nafagha, (Former Chairman, Bwari Branch), the Learned Silk thanked the leadership and membership of the NBA Bwari Branch and urged them to continue to make laudable feats towards achieving the Nigerian Bar of their dream.

The dinner came to a close with concluding remarks from Mr. Paul B. Daudu (Chairman, 2022 Law Week Planning Committee) who thanked everyone for their time and support.

J-K GADZAMA SAN JOINS THE BENIN BRANCH (LION BAR) FOR THEIR MONTHLY MEETING

Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN on Sunday, June 12, 2022 alongside his friends including Prof. Paul Idornigie, SAN, (Board Member, Janada International Centre for Arbitration and Mediation) Prof. G.L Umoru (Head of Business Law, Igbinedion University, Okada), Mr. Patrick Ediale, (Former Branch Chairman, Unity Bar) Mr. Godswill Iyoke, Mr. Francis Oronsaye (Managing Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP) and Mr. Victor Ehiosun (Counsel, J-K Gadzama LLP and Member, Young Lawyers’Group, J-K Gadzama LLP) joined the members of the NBA Benin Branch, (Lion Bar) at NBA Bar House, for their branch meeting.

The Chairman of the Branch, Mr. Pius Oiwoh, welcoming the Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his entourage charged members of the Lion Bar to cede the floor to the Learned Silk who wanted to make a formal address.

The Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, thanked the members and executives of the Benin Branch for giving him the opportunity to be part of the august occasion. He recognized all the executives of the Lion Bar reiterating his gratitude to them for always allowing him to be a part of the Branch. He then spoke to the crowd on the reason for his visit.

Addressing the attendees, the seasoned Bar Patriot explained that the Lion Bar was dear to his heart because they had always shown unwavering commitment to the course of the Nigerian Bar and produced some of the finest lawyers he had worked with. He said, “Edo State has produced Managing Partners in our office overtime. Our former managing partner, Mr. Henry Oseriemen Michael-Ihunde is from here and even the current managing partner is also from here. So, I am more or less back home, and I am very happy to be here with you. The Nigerian Bar Association is one that is dear to our hearts and we will continue to uphold its course as lawyers, democrats and God-fearing citizens of Nigeria. I have the requisite experience and I know what ideas to implement to take the Nigerian Bar to higher heights. Your brother, Mr. Olumide Akpata has done fantastically well. This is even the more reason why you need someone to continue to build on the legacy. I do my best in my individual capacity to proffer solutions to the challenges of the Bar. I believe in mentorship and empowerment of Young Lawyers. I also believe in gender equality. As a matter of fact, female lawyers form about 65% of the workforce in my office. All I ask is for a platform to do this at a National level and serve the interest of the Bar. My loyalty is only to the Constitution of the NBA, the Nigerian Constitution and God the Almighty. Thank you”.

The attendees gave the Learned Silk a resounding ovation with cheers of “J-K is okay”.

J-K GADZAMA, SAN JOINS THE SPEAKER BENUE STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY, CHIEF JUDGE OF BENUE STATE, PRESIDENT, BENUE STATE CUSTOMARY COURT OF APPEAL, CHAIRMAN NBA MAKURDI BRANCH AND MEMBERS OF THE NBA MAKURDI BRANCH AT THE THANKSGIVING SERVICE OF THE NBA MAKURDI BRANCH 2022 LAW WEEK

On Sunday, June 5, 2022, Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his entourage including Mela Audu Nunghe, SAN(Former. Chairman Abuja Branch), Steve Abar ( Former. Vice President NBA, Former. National Assistant Secretary), Ganny Ajape (Former. National welfare Secretary of the NBA), Samson Samson Gotom (NBA Jos Branch Secretary), Jerry Ombugadu Musa ( Financial Secretary Unity bar, Abuja and Junior Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP), Victor Ehiosun (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), Love Chukwumerije (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), Esther Oduh (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), and Ogwuche Roseline (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), joined the thanksgiving church service of the NBA Makurdi Branch 2022 Annual Law Week at St. Dominics Catholic Church, Sachi presided over by Very Reverend Father Michael Murphy CSSP.

The occasion which was graced by several dignitaries including Hon. Justice Aondover Kaka’an( Chief Judge Benue State), Hon. Justice Cosmos A. Idye (President, Benue State Customary Court of Appeal), Rt. Hon. Titus Uba (Speaker Benue State House of Assembly) and Justin Gbagir, Esq ( Chairman NBA Makurdi branch) received a robust attendance as many members of the NBA Makurdi Branch were in attendance fully robed.

The Priest in delivering his sermon admonished everyone on the importance of thanksgiving to God Almighty for the many seen and unseen gifts he bestows on everyone. The Priest, speaking to the lawyers asked them to keep the hope of the lower social class alive by ensuring that they always lend their voice to justice.

After the sermon, the thanksgiving procession began, followed by prayers were made for the members of the NBA Makurdi Branch and benediction.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 08, 2022
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JURIST, AG, KAIGAMA POUR ENCOMIUMS ON GADZAMA

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JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN, A TRAILBLAZER WHO SHOULD BE IMITATED BY THE NBA – HON. JUSTICE O. A ADENIYI AT THE 7TH EDITION OF THE ANNUAL PROFESSIONAL TRAINING AND MENTORING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG LAWYERS OF J-K GADZAMA LLP

According to Hon. Justice O. A. Adeniyi, “Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN is in active competition with the NBA as a body for the provision of legal services and the NBA should learn from the Learned Silk”. Flowing from this quote, the prestigious J-K Gadzama LLP held the 7th edition of its Annual Hon. Justice Chukwudifu Oputa JSC (Rtd) Professional Training and Mentoring Program for Young Lawyers on Saturday, 4 June 2022. The hybrid event with the theme, “Emerging Areas of Law: The Role of Young Lawyers” witnessed the attendance of young lawyers from different states across the country.

As you may be aware, the Mentoring Program has been a long standing tradition of the law firm, and is in accord with the Principal Partner’s mandate of alleviating the plight and bridging the knowledge gap of young lawyers in the legal profession in Nigeria.

As a result of his passion for the welfare and growth of young lawyers, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN, the principal partner of J-K Gadzama LLP, who despite his tight schedule, was present at the Mentoring Program to chip in his bit of advice to the young lawyers before embarking on a journey same morning. While giving his opening remarks, he urged the young lawyers present to pick a mentor and carve out a niche for their legal practice by specializing in two or three aspects of legal practice. Mr. Mela Audu Nunghe, SAN, Mr. Ganny Ajape, Mr. Steve Abar, Mr. Gotom Samson (Secretary of Jos Branch NBA), Mr. Francis Oronsaye, Mr. Madu Joe-Kyari Gadzama and Mr. Jerry Musa Ombugadu were in attendance at the program.

The Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Justice Husseini Baba Yusuf, who is the incumbent Chief Judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, was ably represented by Hon. Justice O.A Adeniyi of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory. His Lordship during his remarks commended the Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama for his continuous efforts towards developing young lawyers through his annual mentoring programs. He noted that the Learned Silk is indeed a pacesetter in the field of mentorship for young lawyers and he urged the Nigerian Bar Association to follow the footsteps of the Learned Silk to ensure that the legal profession is left in secure and safe hands.

Dr. Oluwakemi Pinheiro, SAN, the founding partner of Pinheiro LP, who was the keynote speaker at the program delivered a stellar presentation on the topic, “Attaining Self-Development to Becoming an Iconic Legal Practitioner in Emerging Areas of Law”. In the wise words of the Learned Silk, he stated that “A lawyer is a student until he dies. Once he considers himself not a student anymore, the lawyer inside him dies”. While concluding his session, the Eminent Silk reiterated the essence of identifying an area of specialization and harnessing the opportunities prevalent in that field.

Other discussants who keyed into the theme by making presentations on various emerging areas of law include: Mr. Darlington Onyekwere, Partner at J-K Gadzama LLP who set the high bar for other discussants by delivering an outstanding presentation on legal advocacy; Mrs. Anne Agi, a law lecturer at the University of Calabar and the Chief rapporteur of NBA, who during the second session of the event made a top-notch presentation on space law, a seemingly interesting area of law with little development in Nigeria; Ms. Layo Olaiya, an associate at Olaniwun Ajayi LP and Mr. John Olamiposi, an associate at Omaplex Law who during the third and fourth sessions delivered exceptional presentations on the rapidly growing areas of Fintech law and Artificial Intelligence in Nigeria respectively.

In the words of Mrs. Anne Agi, “the mainstream is already chocked. As such, lawyers should continuously transform into something else”. In accordance with these words, we believe that the program was indeed enlightening and informative as the keynote speaker and discussants did substantial justice to the theme. At the end of each session, the mentees asked a host of interactive questions to the mentors who eagerly provided insightful answers to these questions based on their wealth of knowledge and experience.

Indeed, the Chairman of the Mentoring Committee of the Body of Benchers for Young Lawyers, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN has shown immense dedication and commitment towards ensuring that young lawyers are adequately equipped with the requisite knowledge to succeed in the legal profession.

WHAT A MAN!!! – KAIGAMA IBRAHIM TO J-K GADZAMA, SAN AT THE LUNCH/SIT-OUT SESSION HOSTED BY THE NBA KEFFI BRANCH

On Sunday, June 5, 2022, Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his entourage including Mela Audu Nunghe, SAN (Former. Chairman Abuja Branch), Steve Abar ( Former. Vice President NBA, Former. National Assistant Secretary), Ganny Ajape (Former. National welfare Secretary of the NBA), Samson Samson Gotom (NBA Jos Branch Secretary), Jerry Ombugadu Musa ( Financial Secretary Unity bar, Abuja and Junior Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP), Victor Ehiosun (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), Love Chukwumerije (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), Esther Oduh (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), Ogwuche Roseline (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), attended a lunch/ sit-out session hosted by the NBA Keffi branch.

The Lunch/ sit-out session witnessed the attendance of Bar Leaders from the NBA Keffi Branch such as: Senator Abubakar Danso Sodangi, Dr Abdullkareem Kana (A.G Nasarawa State), Hassan Dikko Ibrahim (Class of 86), Eric I. Esq (Pioneer Chairman Keffi Branch), Ahmed Loko (Immediate Past Chairman Keffi Branch), Mr G.B Ashi (Elder, NBA Keffi branch), Uche Okonkwo (FIDA Chairperson) and Isaac Paul Akpomishi (Secretary, NBA Keffi Branch).

Kaigama Ibrahim, a member of the NBA Keffi Branch expressed his gratitude to the Learned silk, stating that he had personally benefited from the benevolence of the Learned silk. In his words, “we have our candidate and need not vote for another”.

Furthermore, he stated that he is a graduate of the University of Jos and during his undergraduate days, letters were written to a lot of Senior Advocates of Nigeria by the Law Students’ Association of University of Jos soliciting for funds and only the Learned Silk, Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN responded and provided them with financial assistance.

Kaigama Ibrahim also stated that when his set got admission into the Nigerian Law School, seven (7) of his classmates could not afford the law school tuition. They reached out to the Learned silk and he, (J-K Gadzama, SAN) paid the tuition fees of all seven of them, saying that he did not want them to tell anyone and he was only doing so for his conscience and in obedience to God.

What a man!!!

Click here to view the testimonial.

J-K GADZAMA, SAN OPENED THE WAY FOR NORTHERN LAWYERS – AG NASARAWA STATE AT THE LUNCH/SIT-OUT SESSION HOSTED BY THE NBA KEFFI BRANCH.

On Sunday, June 5, 2022, Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his entourage including Mela Audu Nunghe, SAN(Former. Chairman Abuja Branch), Steve Abar ( Former. Vice President NBA, Former. National Assistant Secretary), Ganny Ajape (Former. National welfare Secretary of the NBA), Samson Samson Gotom (NBA Jos Branch Secretary), Jerry Ombugadu Musa ( Financial Secretary Unity bar, Abuja and Junior Partner, J-K Gadzama LLP), Victor Ehiosun (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), Love Chukwumerije (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), Esther Oduh (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), Ogwuche Roseline (Counsel J-K Gadzama LLP), at the lunch/ sit-out session hosted by the NBA Keffi branch.

The Lunch/ sit-out session witnessed the attendance of Bar Leaders from the NBA Keffi Branch such as: Senator Abubakar Danso Sodangi, Dr Abdullkareem Kana(A.G Nasarawa State), Hassan Dikko Ibrahim of class 86 with Chief J-K Gadzama SAN, Eric I. Esq ( pioneer Chairman Keffi Branch), Ahmed Loko (immediate past chairman Keffi Branch), Mr G. B. Ashi ( Elder, NBA keffi branch), Uche Okonkwo ( FIDA Chairperson) and and Isaac Paul Akpomishi (secretary NBA Keffi branch).

Dr. Abdullkareem Kana (A.G Nasarawa State), welcomed the Learned silk and expressed his gratitude to the learned Silk for all he has done for the legal profession and the bar.

Furthermore, He stated that at a time many did not believe that a Northern lawyer especially one from maiduguri can make a breakthrough in the legal profession, the Learned silk showed them, that it can be done and opened the way for them.

Thereafter he concluded by saying that all J-K Gadzama SAN has done for the profession and the bar, no Northern lawyer has ever done it.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 08, 2022
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GADZAMA GETS ROUSING WELCOME AT EBF, IKEJA, LAFIA, MAKURDI, UNITY BAR

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MEMBERS OF THE EASTERN BAR FORUM (EBF) WELCOME CHIEF J-K GADZAMA

At the canaan city of Calabar, Cross Rivers State, members of the Eastern Bar Forum (EBF) comprising 9 States of the old Eastern Region gathered for their quarterly general meeting scheduled for Friday 3rd – Saturday 4th June, 2022.

The general meeting started on Friday, June 3, 2022 with a cocktail at Event 45 Conference Center at the instance of the Honourable Chief Jude of the Cross Rivers State, Hon Justice Akon Bassey Ikpeme, wherein the members were entertained with a variety of local delicacies and cultural dance.

At the cocktail, the compere recognized and welcomed the friends of J-K Gadzama ably led by Chief Princes Chukwudi Oli.

At the general meeting of the forum on Saturday, June 4 2022, members in attendance deliberated on the business of the day as it affects the forum, the States in the old Eastern Region and Nigeria in tune with their theme “Insecurity and Injustice: Threats to Nigeria’s Corporate Co-Existence”. The Governor of the State, His Excellency, (Sen) (Prof) Ben Ayade was ably represented by the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tanko Ashang, Esq.

In line with the noble tradition of the Forum, all candidates vying for various positions in the Nigerian Bar Association were called upon to address the members.

Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama, SAN, who was ably represented by Chief Prince Chukwudi Oli, the Director-General of Vox Populi, spoke to the members of the EBF on the candidature of Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN. He highlighted various capacities Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN have served the Nigerian Bar Association as the pioneer Chairman of NBA – SPIDEL; NBA – SARC; Council Member of NBA-SBL and SLP.

He described Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama SAN as a consummate and quintessential Bar Man and a true detriblised Nigerian. Chief Oli informed the members that Gadzama holds the traditional title of “Okwuluora of Ukpo” in Anambra State which means the mouthpiece of the people in Igbo language, which is a honour well deserved.

Chief Oli stated that the Bar has gone beyond the rhetoric of welfare and what one will do if elected to what one has done to the Bar. He stated that Chief Gadzama is an embodiment of love to all, bridge between the old and the young one, and have passion for the development and welfare of young lawyers. He narrated his experience with Chief Gadzama while under the employment of his firm about 12 years ago and how he impacted his life till date. Chief Oli’s speech threw the members of the forum into thunderous clapping and singing of the songs of acceptance of the candidature of Chief Gadzama.

After the greetings and speech from the representative of Chief Gadzama, some members and supporters converged and took a group photograph where the flex banner of Chief J-K was conspicuously placed at the entrance of the hall.

CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN GAILY WELCOMED BY NBA LAFIA – MEMBERS AND EXECUTIVES TO A LUNCH DATE.

On Saturday, June 4, 2022, the friends of Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN in conjunction with the members and executives of the NBA Lafia Bar hosted the Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his esteemed entourage comprising of Mela Audu Nunghe, SAN(Former. Chairman Abuja Branch), Steve Abar ( Former. Vice President NBA National body, Former. Chairman Jos Branch, Former. National Assistant Secretary), Ganny Ajape (Abuja Branch Elder), Samson Samson Gotom (Jos Brand Secretary), Darlington Onyekwere (Partner,J-k Gadzama LLp ), Jerry Ombugadu Musa ( Financial Secretary Unity bar, Abuja and Junior Partner,J-k Gadzama LLp ), Victor Ehiosun (Counsel J-k Gadzama LLp), Love Chukwumerije (Counsel J-k Gadzama LLp),
Promise Godwin (Counsel J-k Gadzama LLp), Esther Oduh (Counsel J-k Gadzama LLp), Ogwuche Roseline (Counsel J-k Gadzama LLp), were gaily received to a lunch date hosted by the NBA Lafia branch.

The Lunch date witnessed the attendance of Bar Leaders from the NBA Lafia Branch such as: Mustapha Sadiq( Chairman), Mohammed Dahiru( vice chairman), Ayuwule Baba Ayuwule ( Secretary), Ovey Yakubu Ezekiel ( Director of Sports), Grace Akatiki Dominic( Chairperson Young lawyer forum NBA Lafia Branch), Emmanuel C.Agoh ( Secretary YLF Lafia Branch).

The welcoming remarks were delivered by Mustapha Sadiq, Esq (Chairman of Lafia Bar) who amongst many other things expressed his gladness to be hosting the Learned Silk. The Chairman also stated that Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN was an exemplary leader and one they were more than happy to be with.

Baba Ayuwule, Esq (Secretary of the Bar) spoke on behalf of the lawyers. In his remarks, the young lawyers were pleased with the good works and contributions of the Learned Silk and welcome every occasion to have interactions with the Learned Silk.

Thereafter, an indigene of Nasarawa State and Junior Partner with the firm of J-K Gadzama LLP, Mr. Jerry Musa Ombugadu spoke to the gathering, describing the Learned Silk as a man of capacity who has consistently contributed to the development of the personal and professional lives of many lawyers in Nigeria. He also reassured all who were present that the Learned Silk is a committed Bar patriot; and not just anyone but one with the rare ability to speak fearlessly on behalf of the Nigerian Bar.

In similar light, the Former National 1st Vice President and Assistant Secretary, Former Chairman Jos Branch, Mr. Steve Abar, addressed the gathering. He referred to the Learned Silk as a man of impeccable pedigree and unbiased character. He said he could attest to this because he had known the Learned Silk since 1997. He said, “be careful of people who come to you to solicit for your support to be NBA President. Ask them this, what they were doing for the NBA in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021. Thereafter he ended his speech by making reference to a statement made by Hon Justice O.A Adeniyi: “J-K Gadzama rivals the NBA as someone who has shown commitment to the affairs of the profession”.

The Learned Silk was then introduced to address the Lafia Bar. Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN expressed delightfully, his commitment to the welfare of the Lafia Bar. He thanked everyone for joining him and welcoming him to Lafia Bar. He stated that being in Lafia is a homecoming for him as he is no stranger to the state and he’s a son of the soil . He described the Lafia Bar as an extension of his family explaining to all who were present that he had several affiliations with Nasarawa State. The Learned Silk reassured the members that the welfare of Young Lawyers will always be his priority and prayed for the young lawyers that they will achieve more and greater things than he has achieved in the profession. He also expressed his commitment to ensuring better access to loans with single digit interest, better access to Lawpavillon and other amenities. In his remarks, he assured the Lafia Bar that as a part of his plan, he was going to set up a structural system that would create more employment opportunities for lawyers. “It is possible to have two legal advisers in every local government in Nigeria under statutory employment. There are many ideas that we have. We have only come to thank you for what you have been doing, what you are doing and what you will do to assist us implement our ideas”.

Thereafter His Highness M.A Sambo (Madaki Kayada), thanked the Learned silk for not relenting in his desire to serve the bar despite his caliber and standing.

J.A Kigbo stated that they are privileged to have the Learned silk in their midst and that the leadership of the NBA requires the boldness of a person who can pull the bull by the horn. Thereafter he asked the learned silk to look into the plight of private legal practitioners such as appointment into the judiciary, remuneration of lawyers. The learned silk in response to him stated that all these things are in his agenda and he will make sure to occasion a change.

Zoe Fuantuam (President of Legal Aid), stated that she was grateful to the learned silk for always recognizing corp members

The Chairperson of Young Lawyers Forum, Lafia, Grace Akatiki Dominic thanked the Learned Silk for the interactive session, assuring him of their unwavering support come rain, come sun. She also thanked all who attended the lunch date.

Darlington Onyekwere( partner J-K Gadzama LLP), expressed gratitude on behalf of Chief J-K gadzama SAN and thank everyone for their warm welcome.

PARTE AFTER PARTE: FRIENDS OF J-K HOST AN AFTER-PARTY FOR THE NBA MAKURDI BRANCH 2022 LAW WEEK DINNER.

On Saturday, June 4, 2022 the NBA Makurdi Branch held its 2022 Annual Law Week Dinner at Benue Hotel & Resorts, Makurdi. The Branch invited Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN to deliver a dinner talk with the theme, “Democracy, Electoral Process & Paradigm of Change in Nigeria”. Thereafter, Friends of J-K hosted an after party for the members of the NBA Makurdi branch in honor of the Learned Silk, Chief J-K Gadzama SAN.

The after-party witnessed the attendance of Bar Leaders from the NBA Makurdi and Gboko Branch such as: J.T Kpakaa, Esq., (Chairman Gboko Branch), J.T Akaazua, (Vice Chairman Gboko Branch), M. Alabar, (Secretary Gboko Branch) B.I Tyiogh, (Social Secretary), R.K. Chia, (Treasurer Gboko Branch), TAR Tombuwua, (Legal Adviser, Gboko Branch) and Jude Nyam, (Chairman, YLF Makurdi).

The Learned Silk opened the dance floor with some great moves and other members of the Bar joined him.
A special highlight of the event was the singing of a composed hymn by some members of the NBA Makurdi Branch amidst gleeful chants of “J-K” and “incoming”.

The after-party was indeed phenomenal, as the bar members danced and had a good time with the Learned Silk with a lot to eat and drink.

MEMBERS OF NBA MAKURDI BRANCH COMPOSE HYMN AND CHANT VICTORY SONGS IN FAVOUR OF J-K GADZAMA, SAN

Thereafter, Friends of J-K hosted an after party for the members of the NBA Makurdi branch in honor of the Learned Silk, Chief J-K Gadzama SAN. The After party hosted by friends of J-K was indeed phenomenal and memorable for the NBA Makurdi branch member and the Learned silk.

The Bar members composed Hymns and chanted them amidst gleeful chants of “J-K” and “incoming”, as Chief J-K Gadzama SAN, was privileged to perform the role of a choir master.

It was indeed a memorable night!!!

UNITY BAR KICKS OFF 2022 LAW WEEK WITH A COCKTAIL PARTY AT HON. JUSTICE S.M.A BELGORE HALL, J-K GADZAMA COURT

It’s the season of law weeks for NBA branches across Nigeria and in this fashion, the NBA, Abuja branch commenced its law week with a fancy cocktail party which was organized by friends of Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN on Sunday, June 5, 2022.

The chairman of the branch, Moses Ebute, SAN and the Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama heartily welcomed all the members of the branch who ebulliently attended the event. Mr. Afam Okeke, former secretary of the branch and alternate chair person of the planning committee also expressed his gratitude to the members present and assured them of a good time at the party.

Amid the classic jams being played in the background, members sipped on their drinks and dined on the finest barbeque chicken and meat that were offered at the event.

The Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama and other members of the branch utilized the cocktail party as an opportunity to network while dancing and chatting with each other.

Prominent personalities who were present at the event include: Mela Nunghe, SAN, past chairman of the branch; Chief Mrs. Victoria Awomolo, SAN; Chief C.P Oli, Director-General of Vox Populi; Hon. Femi Adeniyi, chairman of NBA, Sagamu branch; Dr. Princess Chukwuani; Adama Mohammed; Mrs. Amaruche Onyedum Anya; Dayo Ashonibare amongst a host of others.

It was a great night as priceless memories were made.

JOE-KYARI GADZAMA SAN DAZZLES MEMBERS OF THE NBA-IKEJA BRANCH

Leading Senior Advocate and Candidate for the Office of the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN stormed the monthly meeting of the NBA-Ikeja branch on Monday, June 6, 2022.

Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN – the Honoree of the meeting was given an opportunity to address members of the branch who had eagerly been awaiting his arrival. Amidst the overwhelming rounds of applause, Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN remarked that he had been the only lawyer in the country that had been in the foundation of all the sections of the NBA. In particular, he said that he was the Pioneer Chairman of the NBA-SPIDEL, Pioneer Vice-Chairman the NBA-SLP and a Pioneer council member of the NBA-SBL.

The Leading Senior Advocate also promised improved welfare and increased remuneration for young lawyers, female members of the Bar and lawyers with disabilities.

Furthermore, the Learned Silk stated that the Bar and the Country were at a point where they needed leaders that speak truth to power and could only be guided by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and that of the NBA.

As the Learned Silk concluded his remarks, members of the branch recited the well-known chant, “J-K is OK” which was anchored by Mr Kunle Ogunba SAN.

As is customary with activities linked with the Learned Silk, members of the branch were treated to exquisite delicacies at the cocktail organized in his honour.

Notable personalities present at the meeting with the Learned Silk were Mela Audu Nunghe SAN – Past Chairman of the NBA-Abuja branch, Hon. Nimi Walson Jack – Past General Secretary of the NBA, Otunba Martin Ogunleye – Past Chairman of the NBA-Lagos branch, Stephen Abar – Past 2nd Vice-President of the NBA and Vice-Chairman NBA-SPIDEL, Mr P.B Ishaku, Samson Gotom – Secretary of the NBA-Jos branch, Mr John Austin – Past Publicity Secretary of the NBA, Rotimi Ogunlade, Onwuka Igwe, Oluniyi Adediji, Lamar Joe-Kyari Gadzama, Subomi Adegbemisoye, Anene Nwadukwe, Obinna Ezeanim, Chioma Ferguson, Chukwu Adimote, Chikasi Madubike, Yomi Fagbayi, Azodo Oluchukwu, Her Worship Roseline Akimbo, Benita Olejeme, Lilian Obwugu, Nora Nwaokoye, Naomi Uko, Florence Duru, Nonso Ejionye, Prince Eddy Njoku, Felicia Oheke, Chinelo Ugwu and many others.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 07, 2022
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‘OWO KILLINGS BARBARIC, CRIME AGAINST HUMANITY,’ SAYS GADZAMA

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OWO ATTACK: CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN CONDEMNS KILLING OF WORSHIPPERS DURING SERVICE, LAMENT STATE OF THE NATION AND INVITED THE GOVERNMENT TO ENSURE THAT THE PERPETRATORS ARE BROUGHT TO BOOK SPEEDILY.

Chief joe -Kyari Gadzama, SAN in his statement on the Owo attack, condemned the gruesome killings of Sunday worshipers during the Pentecostal service at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo on the 5th of June 2022. He described the abominable act as barbaric and a crime against humanity, an act which must not be tolerated or allowed to go unpunished in a civilised society like ours.

He expressed his deep regret and sadness at the senseless mass killing in Owo, and shares in the grief of the brave people of Owo over the tragic loss of innocent souls, caused by the attack and killings.

Chief Joe-Kyari, SAN who is the chairman of the NBA securities Relations Committee on Security Agencies invited the relevant security agencies to act immediately and not let this abominable act go unpunished as the perpetrators must be hunted down and punished to the fullest extent of the law.

He further stated that indeed it is a RED DAY in our country’s history, a day of sorrow and irreplaceable loss, but we must stand tall against evil. We cannot be seen to fold our hands and watch as some bad eggs destroy the legacy of our beloved country. The Job is for us all, Lawyers, law enforcement agencies and the citizenry at large.

In his condolence letters to the governor of Ondo state, His Excellency Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN and HRM OLOWO Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, dated the 5th of June,2022, chief J-K Gadzama,SAN shared in the grief of the people of Owo and further condemned the unprovoked and barbaric act that led to the demise of many innocent souls, including children. He prayed for the Soul of the dearly departed and urged the government to ensure that the perpetrators be brought to book speedily.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 04, 2022
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‘THANK YOU FOR ACCEPTING ME AS ONE OF YOU,’ GADZAMA TELLS EASTERN BAR FORUM

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 03, 2022
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Comments Off on GADZAMA PENS FOREWORD TO LAWYERS’ COMPANION

GADZAMA PENS FOREWORD TO LAWYERS’ COMPANION

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PRECEDENTS DRAFTS AND FORMS FOR LAWYERS: “I FEEL PRIVILEGED AND HONOURED TO HAVE WRITTEN THE FOREWORD OF THE TEXT WHICH I BELIEVE SHOULD BE EVERY LAWYER’S COMPANION…” – CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN recently congratulated foremost Nigerian Law School Lecturer, Dr. Oluwafemi Emmanuel Olowononi and his counterpart, Dr. Akin Olawale Oluwadayisi, an astute Lecturer in Faculty of Law, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, for the successful publication of their Text: Precedents Drafts and Forms for Lawyers.

Chief Gadzama, SAN lauded the authors for providing legal precedents and drafts befitting of the modern practice of law in Nigeria and outside Nigeria. In his words, ‘the Text is a masterpiece that could not have been published at a better time.’

Furthermore, Gadzama, SAN expressed his immersed delight at writing the Foreword of the Text. He remarked, “I feel privileged and honoured to have written the Foreword of the Text which I believe should be every lawyer’s companion and I recommend it to every legal library in firms, institutions and legal departments.”

While presenting a copy of the Text to Chief Gadzama, SAN, Dr. Emmanuel O. Olowononi thanked him for accepting to write the Foreword in the Text, describing the learned silk as a Father and Mentor every young lawyer aspires to be like.

The Text is a collection of legal drafts designed to assist lawyers in the art of drafting court processes, applications, written addresses, writing of briefs, filing of forms, and legal opinion writing. The Text presents virtually all forms of drafts a legal practitioner may come across while engaged in litigation, corporate and property practice and general solicitor’s work.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 03, 2022
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Comments Off on GADZAMA ATTENDS NBA YENAGOA THANKSGIVING SERVICE, PRESENTS MEDALS AT EGELE FOOTBALL TOURNEY

GADZAMA ATTENDS NBA YENAGOA THANKSGIVING SERVICE, PRESENTS MEDALS AT EGELE FOOTBALL TOURNEY

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NBA YENAGOA BRANCH ENDS HER LAW WEEK WITH SPECIAL THANKSGIVING, CHIEF JOE KYARI GADZAMA SAN ATTENDS TO HONOUR GOD

It was a special day as the ebullient members of the NBA Yenagoa branch gathered at the Kingdom Life Gospel Outreach Ministry International, Yenagoa to thank God in appreciation of a successful and hitch free 2022 annual law week of the branch.

The joy of the members were complete with a great sermon that focused the need to build a relationship with God and hear from God as children of God in the obedience of faith.

At the climax of the sermon, the members who were all well adorned in their different native attires danced out to the church altar accompanied by the NBA Presidential Aspirant Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama SAN to give thanks to a God whom many said has been faithful to the branch all through the law week activities.

The highlights of the thanksgiving witnessed the branch Chairman, Ukubiriyowei Saiyou, Esq. who addressed the Church in testimony of the countless blessings of God throughout the branch law week.

The Chairman after thanking God, also thanked Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama SAN who he refered to as the “in-coming President on the Nigerian Bar Association”, for finding time to join the branch in their thanksgiving to God for the hitch free celebration of the 2022 NBA Yenagoa branch annual law week.

After the thanksgiving members were all blessed by the Pastor of the Church. Thereafter, members shared the grace together which was followed immediately by a group photograph of the branch members, their Chairman and the erudite learned Silk Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama SAN and his entourage.

JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN PRESENTS MEDALS TO WINNERS OF F. F. EGELE, SAN FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

The NBA, Yenagoa branch organized the F.F Egele, SAN Football Tournament during the 2022 law week of the branch. Various football teams such as Ambaowei FC, Wuku FC, Dambo FC, Ayabowei FC amongst many others participated in tournament. Medals and trophies were also presented to the teams that participated in the tournament. Worthy of note is that friends of the Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN contributed a token that was attached to the medals presented to the players.

You may recall that the Learned Silk witnessed the football game for third place between Dambo FC and Ayabowei FC where Dambo FC came out victorious. He also witnessed the finals between Ambaowei FC and Wuku FC where Ambaowei FC emerged as the overall winner of the tournament with a score line of 4-2.

Mrs. Peretimi Peterside, chairman of the sports committee for the 2022 law week noted that the team had lost its first game with a score line of 5-0. She congratulated the team for their resilience throughout the tournament. Afterwards, the medals for the team were given to the Learned Silk, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama who congratulated the team and presented the medals to the players of Ambaowei FC, the champions of the football tournament. With smiles on their faces, the players accepted their medals and took pictures with the Learned Silk.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Jun 02, 2022
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GADZAMA LAUDS AKPATA ON LAWYERS’ FINANCE SCHEME

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CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN

RE: THE NBA ACCESS TO FINANCE SCHEME COMMENCING

On Monday, May 23, 2022, and Friday, May 27, 2022, the NBA, ably and amiably led by Mr. Olumide Akpata, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with First Bank Ltd and Access Bank Plc respectively, as it relates to the framework regulating the NBA Access to Finance Scheme.

The imperative of the instant pilot scheme of the NBA, created for lawyers who may require loans for their working capital, operational needs and sundry purposes, cannot be overemphasized. This is especially true given that lawyers who meet the prescribed eligibility criteria can now access up to N2 Million at a single-digit interest rate.

This is indeed a huge milestone for the NBA community and a further testament to the waves of other lofty welfare initiatives of this present administration. I cannot but wholeheartedly commend this initiative and urge every and any eligible member to key into the many benefits the scheme affords.

As one of my focal areas of interest is to promote viable fiscal policies that enable the financial security, growth and stability of legal practitioners across Nigeria, it is a desire of mine, as a matter of urgency, to see that this instant scheme grows, thrives, and impacts the quality and development of the practice of law and the legal profession in Nigeria through financial empowerment.

Well done, Mr President. We appreciate you.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 31, 2022
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GADZAMA NOW SHETTIMA ILMUYE OF BORNO

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BORNO EMIRATE COUNCIL CONFERS CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN WITH THE COVETED TITLE OF SHETTIMA ILMUYE OF BORNO

The Borno Emirate Council under the able and distinguished leadership of His Royal Highness, Alh. (Dr.) Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al Amin El-Kanemi CFR honours Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN with the coveted traditional title of Shettima Ilmuye of Borno (Shettima of Knowledge of Borno).

The Borno Emirate Council which was ably represented by Alh. Mala Isa said “the noble title is conferred on personalities of proven integrity who are fair, just and firm to the society and have excelled especially in scholarship. The Royal father found Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, OFR, MFR, SAN worthy to be honoured with this title for his tremendous contributions locally and internationally.”

Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN who was represented by family, friends and lawyers from NBA Maiduguri Branch thanked the Emirate Council for this great honour conferred on the learned Silk. Engr. Emmanuel Yerima, a family member of the learned Silk said “We sincerely thank the emirate council for finding our brother worthy of this great title and we assure you that he will continue the good work of impacting positively on humanity.”

On his part, an Associate at J-K Gadzama LLP, Mr M.M. Kaigama, Esq appreciated the emirate council for this great honour “On behalf of J-K Gadzama LLP, we want to genuinely appreciate His Royal Highness for this well deserved conferment. This coveted title has duly recognized Chief J-K Gadzama’s profound contributions to the legal profession and humanity at large which made him to be conferred with numerous titles within and outside the shores of Borno State; as Sardauna of Uba, Bobajiro of Akure Kingdom and Okwuoloura of Ukpo land. The Shettima Ilmuye title couldn’t have come at a better time as Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN is a Man of many firsts, the first Senior Advocate of Nigeria to hail from Kanem Borno and the entire Northeastern Nigeria, First Senior Advocate from University of Maiduguri, Borno State and the current Pioneer Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association-Security Agencies Relations Committee.”

Hajiya Zara Yaqub Esq., a frontline member of FIDA thanked the Borno Emirate Council for adding yet another feather on the cap of the learned Silk. “We assure you that J-K Gadzama, SAN will continue to contribute more to Borno State and Nigeria as a whole. He has recently helped orphans and students affected by insurgency in Borno State at Future Prowess Islamic Foundation. This award will be a booster for more humanitarian strides”

The representatives of the Borno Emirate Council presented the letter of appointment signed by the Secretary of the emirate council, Zanna Laisu Kazalma which indicated that while they shall be waiting for the learned Silk to officiate the conferment ceremony, the appointment shall take effect immediately.

The event ended with prayers, refreshments and photographs.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 30, 2022
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LAW SCHOOL CLASS ’86, NBA OWERRI HOST GADZAMA

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FRIENDS OF CHIEF JOE KYARI GADZAMA, SAN HOST THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE NBA OWERRI BRANCH, THE HEARTLAND BAR.

At the beautiful city of Owerri, Imo State, members of the NBA Owerri branch, the Heartland Bar gathered at the NBA House Owerri for their monthly meeting ably hosted by the friends of Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN, which was described by many in attendance as the second coming of the man they fondly called J-K Gadzama in a short period.

At the meeting of the branch, members in attendance deliberated on the business of the day as it affects the branch within the State and metropolis of Owerri.

The friends of Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama, SAN, who was ably represented by Chief Prince Chukwudi Oli, the Director-General of Vox Populi and other great bar men of the Owerri branch including Victor Nwogu, Esq., Mr Ezeala Esq. and Mr Nwakaeti Esq., lighted up the venue of the meeting with an appearance of sort to add to the creme de la creme of personalities of the Heartland Bar.

During the deliberations of the meeting, members were greeted to the Goodwill messages from the friends of Chief J-K Gadzama SAN which they received with interest and rapt attention as if they were listening to the voice of Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN in person.

At the end of the branch meeting, members were treated to a variety of delectable meals ranging from local delicacies to varieties of continental dishes. As part of fun at the event, members danced to the tune of different musical tones and had a lot to drink to the satisfaction of the members who stayed till the very end of the occasion.

Members gave their different testaments to the true character and personality of the learned Silk, Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama SAN whose array of personalities was a projection of his social capital.

Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama SAN is a consummate and quintessential Bar Man and a true Nigerian. He holds the traditional title of “Okwuluora of Ukpo” which means the mouthpiece of the people in Igbo language, which is a honour well deserved.

Also in attendance at the meeting of the heartland bar were revered members and elders of the bar such as Messers’ Onochie Onwuegbuna Esq., Principal Partner ( Zeran Legal), M. O. Nlemedum Esq, and Soronnadi Njoku, both former Attorneys General of Imo State, and other very senior lawyers. In attendance equally are Chief C.U. Ekomaru and J.C. Uwazuronye both of whom spoke glowingly of the person of Chief J-K Gadzama SAN.

Others in attendance at the meeting were the Chairpersons of FIDA Owerri branch and Young Lawyers Forum (YLF), Owerri branch.

CLASS OF 86 FRIENDS OF CHIEF JOE KYARI GADZAMA, SAN HOST THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE NBA OWERRI BRANCH, THE HEARTLAND BAR.

At the meeting of the branch, members in attendance deliberated on the business of the day as it affects the branch within the State and metropolis of Owerri.

The friends of Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama, SAN, who was ably represented by Chief Prince Chukwudi Oli, the Director-General of Vox Populi and other great bar men of the Owerri branch including Victor Nwogu, Esq., Mr. Chukwuma Ezeala Esq. and Mr Lawrence Nwakaeti Esq., lighted up the venue of the meeting with an appearance of sort to add to the creme de la creme of personalities of the Heartland Bar.

The class of 1986 of the Nigerian Law School, friends of Chief J-K Gadzama of the heartland bar include: Leslie Njemanze, Esq., A.C.Mezu., Esq., Charles Onyeagbako., Esq., E.C.Mere., Esq., Emeka Ibeziako., Esq., Don Oweregbulam., Esq., Obi Anyanwu., Esq. Malachy Nadu., Esq., Chinedu Shuts., Esq., C.J.Ihemedu., Esq., Julius Onyenucheya., Esq., M.O. Over., Esq., and M.R.Udom., Esq.

Members gave their different testaments to the true character and personality of the learned Silk, Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama SAN whose array of personalities was a projection of his social capital.

Also in attendance at the meeting of the heartland bar were revered members and elders of the bar such as Messers’ Onochie Onwuegbuna Esq., Principal Partner ( Zeran Legal), M. O. Nlemedum Esq., Former Attorney General of Imo State, Serennadi Njoku SAN., Chukwuma Ekomaru SAN., Eze Duru Ihuoma SAN., Emeka Nwagwu SAN., Njamanze SAN., Mr Uwazuruonye Esq ( Former Resident Electoral Commissioner)., Some of whom are members of the NLS Class of 1986 and avid members of the Heartland Bar.
Others in attendance at the meeting were the Chairpersons of FIDA Owerri branch and Young Lawyers Forum (YLF), Owerri branch.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 29, 2022
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GADZAMA IN PARTY WITH NBA BAYELSA LAWYERS AT GOV’T HOUSE

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JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN DINES WITH NBA, YENAGOA BRANCH AT THE DSP ALAMIEYESEIGHA MEMORIAL BANQUET HALL

The NBA, Yenagoa branch hosted a dinner on Saturday, May 28, 2022 in celebration of their 2022 law week at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN was in attendance at the dinner as he was to deliver the dinner talk at the event. According to Helen Keller, “alone we can do so little; together we can do so much”. In that wise, a group of lawyers from the NBA, Port Harcourt branch accompanied the Learned Silk who is a presidential aspirant of the NBA to the dinner. The lawyers who accompanied the Learned Silk to the dinner include: Mr. Nyesom Chinda; Mr. Victor Agala; Mrs. Anthonia Osademe, vice chairman of NBA, Port Harcourt branch; Ms. Sophia Ugwuorah; Ms. Sarah Apia; Mr. Ebuka Samuel; Mr. Akuro T. Enoch; Mr. Adebayo Williams; Mr. Godsent Elenwa; Mr. Evidence Asite Agbor; Ms. Harmony Chikodili; Mr. Wejinya Azubuike A; Mr. Nwaiwu Patrick; Ms. Pepple Vanessa; Mrs. Atonye Ezekiel-Hart; Ms. Sophia Nwenekorum; Mr. Ezechimenum Adums; Mr. Obinna Victor; Mr. Anaeli King; Mr. Dafenone Akpomudiare; Ms. Hillary Ayebaifie Ojeke amongst many others.

The Learned Silk was duly recognized as a distinguished guest at the dinner by the MC and chairman of the occasion, Mr. Kemasuode Wodu, SAN.

“I am a son of the soil for some of you who may not be aware and I am always happy to come back home. I consider this opportunity a great honor and privilege and I am grateful to the leadership and all members of the branch who found me worthy to deliver the dinner talk” the Learned Silk said while expressing his gratitude to the branch. His dinner talk was compendious but it is worthy to note that no stone was left unturned as he touched on the relevant areas in relation to the topic.

At the end of his dinner talk, he implored the older generation of lawyers to create room for mentorship programs for young lawyers. He saluted the branch for the success achieved with their 2022 law week and urged them to keep up with their efforts towards ensuring the growth of the branch and the Bar.

Notable Personalities who were at the dinner include: Hon. Justice Kate Abiri, Chief Judge of Bayelsa State who was ably represented by Hon. Justice M.A Ayemie of the Bayelsa State High Court, a classmate of the Learned Silk at the Nigerian Law School; Hon. Justice Daniel Ayah, President, Customary Court of Appeal, Bayelsa State, a classmate of the Learned Silk at the Nigerian Law School; Hon. Nimi Walson Jack, past General Secretary of NBA; Mrs. Ayonimite Bob, also a classmate of the Learned Silk at the Nigerian Law School; Mr. Ukumbiriowei Saiyou, Chairman of the NBA, Yenagoa branch; Mrs. Pere Egbuson, Chairman of the 2022 law week of NBA, Yenagoa branch amongst many others.

The dinner provided a great atmosphere for networking as the lawyers from the yenagoa branch and other neighboring branches interacted with one another while feasting on the delicious meals served and taking sips from their drinks.

FRIENDS OF J-K GADZAMA, SAN AND THE LEARNED SILK DANCED THE NIGHT AWAY AT THE BAYELSA STATE GOVERNMENT HOUSE

Friends of J-K Gadzama, SAN who belong to the NBA, Yenagoa branch organized an outdoor poolside party for the Learned Silk and his guests at the Bayelsa State Government House. The party took place on Saturday, May 28, 2022 immediately after the branch’s dinner at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall.

The Learned Silk noted that the party was an opportunity to network and unwind. He definitely had a good time as he was seen dancing with his good friend, Hon. Nimi Walson Jack, past general secretary of NBA; Mrs. Anthonia Osademe, vice chairman of NBA, Port harcourt branch; Mr. Ukumbiriowei Saiyou, chairman of NBA, Yenagoa branch and other young and senior lawyers who attended the event.

A reliable source informed us that the party turned out well as more than 150 lawyers who had big smiles on their faces partied with the Learned Silk as a show of their support to his NBA Presidential ambition. The dance floor was busy; drinks and chops were also provided for all those who attended.

With so much happiness, the Learned Silk thanked the branch for the selfless service he received throughout his stay. He also thanked his guests from the NBA, Port Harcourt branch who came all the way to attend the dinner and party with him.

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May 28, 2022
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NBA AHOADA ENDORSES GADZAMA, ISIOKPO HONOURS HIM, STORMS YENAGOA SOCCER FINALS

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NBA AHOADA BRANCH ENDORSES PRESIDENTIAL AMBITION OF CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN AT THE MONTHLY MEETING FOR MAY

The NBA Ahoada branch, Rivers State held its monthly meeting on Friday, May 27, 2022. The branch extended invitations to eminent members of the Bar such as Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN amongst many others. While some of the invitees could not attend the meeting, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and other aspirants were in attendance at the meeting.

The branch specially designed a banner which was strategically placed to welcome only Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his entourage to the branch. Mr. Morris Kipe Alali, Esq., the chairman of the NBA, Ahoada branch personally welcomed the Learned Silk and gave him an opportunity to address members of the branch. The Learned Silk thanked the branch for the hearty and elaborate welcome he received.

“This is not my first time here. I was here several years ago and I will be here again” Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN said while informing members of the branch that Rivers State is home to him as he is an adopted Rivers State man.

“Collectively, we can work together to improve the Bar and take smaller branches to the next level,” Chief Joe-Kyari said while commending the branch for their rapid growth.

He urged members of the branch to actively participate in initiating ideas that positively affect the branch and the Bar at large. The Learned Silk who has proven that mentorship of young lawyers is very dear to his heart through the Hon. Justice Chukwudifu Oputa JSC (Rtd) Mentoring Program of J-K Gadzama LLP, noted that he shall continue to take steps that are directly aimed at bettering the legal profession, particularly capacity building for the young lawyers.

Members of the branch wildly applauded at the end of the Learned Silk’s address to the branch. The chairman endorsed and stated that the branch shall support the Learned Silk with his NBA Presidential ambition. The leadership of the branch and other members of the branch joined the Learned Silk while he was taking pictures with the banner made for him by the branch.

Some amiable members of the NBA who accompanied the Learned Silk to the branch’s meeting include: Hon. Nimi Walson Jack, past general secretary of NBA; Mrs. Anthonia Osademe, vice chairman of NBA, Port Harcourt branch; Ms. Sarah Apia; Mr. Victor Agala; Mr. Ebuka Samuel; Ms. Sophia Ugwuorah; Mr. Akuro T. Enoch; Mr. Adebayo Williams; Mr. Godsent Belema; Mr. Evidence Asite Agbor; Ms. Harmony Chikodili; Mr. Wejinya Azubuike A; Mr. Nwaiwu Patrick; Mr. Dafenone Akpomudiare; Ms. Hillary Ayebaifie Ojeke amongst many others.

NBA YLF, ISIOKPO BRANCH HONORS CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN WITH AN AWARD FOR HIS REMARKABLE CONTRIBUTION TO THE LEGAL PROFESSION

On Friday, May 27, 2022, the NBA YLF, Isiokpo branch organized a one-day seminar with the theme, “Contemporary Areas in Legal Practice: Challenges & Prospects for Young Lawyers” at the OCJ Okocha Bar Centre, High Court Complex, Isiokpo, Rivers State.

The Keynote Speakers at the event were: Chukwuka Ikwazom, SAN, Partner at Aluko & Oyebode; Dr. Hon. Cashmia Ofurum; Mr. Ogbonna Goodluck Ogbom, Esq.; and Mr. Nweke Prince Nweke, Esq. They all delivered justice to the theme of the seminar as they selected different areas of law to concentrate on such as: entertainment law, financial technology, land law, intellectual property law and several other emerging areas of law. Other distinguished guests who were at the event include: High Chief Lukeman Ihua, past chairman, NBA, Isiokpo branch and Hon. Churchill Wosu, pioneer chairman, NBA, Isiokpo branch.

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN who was a guest speaker at the event was introduced to the audience by DCN Promise Uche Ichegba, incumbent chairman of the NBA, Isiokpo branch. Mr. Goodluck Ogbonda, chairman of the NBA YLF, Isiokpo branch presented an award on behalf of the branch to the Learned Silk for his selfless contribution to the legal profession.

We could tell that the Learned Silk was overwhelmed with excitement as the award was being presented to him. He expressed his immense gratitude to both the leadership and members of the branch. He noted that he was encouraged by the creativity of the NBA YLF, Isiokpo branch. He commended both the past and present leadership of the branch for the growth of the branch and noted that they had done a good job with the younger generation of lawyers in the branch.

Furthermore, he urged all present to take steps towards the development of the Bar as that duty remains a collective one. He implored the older generation of lawyers to participate in improving the welfare and remuneration for young lawyers. He saluted the incumbent president of the NBA, Mr. Olumide Akpata and the president of the NBA Remuneration Committee, Mr. Anthony Nwaochei for the steps taken by the administration to improve the remuneration for the legal profession. He reiterated the point made on specialization for young lawyers by Mr. Chukwuka Ikwazom, SAN. He urged the young lawyers present to center their legal practice around two to three areas of law as this shall influence the success of their legal practice.

The Learned Silk was accompanied to the seminar by the following lawyers of the NBA, Port Harcourt branch and NBA, Abuja branch (Unity Bar): Mrs. Anthonia Osademe, vice chairman of NBA, Port Harcourt branch; Ms. Sarah Apia; Mr. Victor Agala; Mr. Ebuka Samuel; Ms. Sophia Ugwuorah; Mr. Akuro T. Enoch; Mr. Adebayo Williams; Mr. Evidence Asite Agbor; Ms. Harmony Chikodili; Mr. Dafenone Akpomudiare; Ms. Hillary Ayebaifie Ojeke amongst many others.

JOE-KYARI GADZAMA SAN ATTENDS THE 2022 LAW WEEK FOOTBALL MATCH FINALS OF THE NBA, YENAGOA BRANCH

The Learned Silk and a group of other lawyers attended the final football match organized by the NBA, Yenagoa branch for their 2022 law week between Wuku FC and Ambaowei FC.

The Learned Silk who attended the football match between the two teams at Joseph Beredugo International School received a positive reception from members of the branch.

This is the second match of the NBA, Yenagoa law week that the Learned Silk has witnessed in his short visit to Bayelsa State. Yesterday, he witnessed the match for third place between Dambo FC and Ayabowei FC wherein Dambo FC emerged as the winner with a score line of 2-1.

The Learned Silk’s interest in the football game is not out of place as he is indeed a fervent supporter of the game and an energetic sportsman. Recently, he sponsored his football team, Gadzama FC during the 2022 Abuja Lawyers’ League where the team came in third place at the league. He is the chairman of Gadzama FC; incumbent vice chairman of the Bar and Bench Golf Tournament; a trustee of Hon. Seriake Dickson Golf and Country Club in Yenagoa and also, a member of the Bayelsa State Sports Committee headed by His Royal Majesty, King Alfred Diete-Spiff.

Ambaowei FC came out victorious with a win of 4-2 over Wuku FC. The Learned Silk congratulated both teams and took pictures with the players and other members of the branch who were present at the game. The chairman of the branch, Mr. Ukumbiriowei Saiyou and members of the branch received the Learned Silk as one of their own and thanked him for his show of interest in the activities of the NBA, Yenagoa branch.

Some members of the NBA, Yenagoa branch who were present include: Mr. Ukumbiriowei Saiyou, chairman of NBA, Yenagoa branch; Mrs. Pere Egbuson; Mrs. Bob Ayonimite; Mr. Jumbo Soala, vice chairman of the branch; Mrs Peterside Peretimi, the sports chair person of the NBA, Yenagoa branch; Mr. Ben Braye; Mr. Duke Ebiyon; Mr. Emmanuel Robert, football captain of NBA, Yenagoa branch and a host of others.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 28, 2022
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GADZAMA IN BREAKSFAST WITH NBA PH YOUNG LAWYERS, STORMS OKRIKA BRANCH

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CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN JOINS THE YOUNG LAWYERS’ FORUM, NBA, PORT HARCOURT BRANCH FOR BREAKFAST AT LANDMARK HOTEL

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama rounded up his stay in the garden city of Port Harcourt with a lavish breakfast organized by the Young Lawyers’ Forum, NBA, Port Harcourt branch at Landmark hotel, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The young lawyers informed the Learned Silk that this was another way of expressing their gratitude to him for the prominent role he plays in advancing the legal profession for young lawyers through the Hon. Justice Chukwudifu Oputa JSC (Rtd) Mentoring Program organized by J-K Gadzama LLP.

The Learned Silk, who is currently the chairman of the Mentorship Committee of the Body of Benchers was elated as the show of love from young lawyers and other members of the NBA, Rivers State contributed to his pleasant and fruitful stay in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

With smiles on their faces, the lawyers enjoyed their breakfast as various food items were on display in the restaurant at Landmark hotel. They also had a round table discussion with the Learned Silk which afforded them the opportunity to brainstorm on ideas and discuss salient issues affecting the Bar. The Learned Silk encouraged the lawyers and urged them to keep up the good work.

In attendance were: Hon. Nimi Walson Jack Jack, past general secretary of NBA; Mr. Kingsley Nyesom Chinda; Mrs. Cordelia Eke; past secretary of NBA, Port Harcourt; Mr. Ezechimenum Adums, welfare chairman of NBA, Port Harcourt branch (YLF); Mr. Victor Agala; Mr. Tamunokuro Akuro George; Mr. Adebayo Williams; Mr. David Ameh; Ms. Dorcas Gibson; Mr. Ebuka Samuel; Ms. Nerissa Obiecheton; Ms. Sophia Ugwuorah; Mr. Nwaiwu Patrick; Mr. Akuro Enoch; Mr. Godsent Elenwa; Mr. Williams Abayomi; Ms. Ruth Itama; Ms. Goodness Keneboh; Mr. Randolph Fiberesima; Ms. Harmony Chikodili; Mr. Obinichi Ugo; Mr. Augustine Obed Emeka; Wejinya Anwuri; Evidence Asite Agwor amongst many others.

CHIEF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN; SON OF THE SOIL, HON. NIMI WALSON JACK AND OTHERS ATTEND THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE NBA, OKRIKA BRANCH

The NBA, Okrika branch held its monthly meeting on Thursday, May 26, 2022 at the popular borokiri neighborhood in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Mr. Selema Alamina Walton, vice chairman of the Eastern Bar Forum (EBF) and Mr. Edward Ofori, Esq., the social secretary of the branch ushered the Learned Silk; Hon. Nimi Walson Jack, past general secretary of the NBA; Tamunokuro Akuro George, Esq.; Dafenone Akpomudiare, Esq.; Hillary Ayebaifie Ojeke and others into the meeting. The members of the branch were filled with delight as the Learned Silk and his team made their way into the meeting.

The chairman of the branch, Mr. Emmanuel Eremia, Esq., formally introduced the Learned Silk to members of the branch after warmly welcoming him and his team to the meeting. The chairman of the branch gave the Learned Silk an opportunity to address members of the branch.

While addressing them, the Learned Silk informed members of the branch that he is the pioneer chairman of both NBA-SPIDEL and NBA-SARC. He mentioned that he is looking forward to an all inclusive bar where smaller branches who have been cast aside will be able to take a seat at the Bar. Indeed, this statement made by the Learned Silk captured the hearts of many members of the branch as they nodded in response. His passion for the welfare of young lawyers was brought to fore as he spoke on the essence of mentoring young lawyers to ensure that the legal profession is left in safe hands. He noted that service is the pathway to greatness and as such, the NBA needs a leader who is true to himself and true to all members of the NBA. He gave all glory to God as he mentioned that the grace of God is the foremost factor responsible for his tremendous growth in the legal profession.

Mr. Kalada Nonju, Esq., past chairman of the branch rendered the vote of thanks. He thanked the Learned Silk, Hon. Nimi Walson Jack and other members of the team for gracing the meeting with their presence. Most importantly, he stated that the name “J-K Gadzama” is a household name which requires no introduction as the reputation of the Learned Silk precedes him. He noted that the branch shall account for 99.9% of the votes in support of the Learned Silk’s NBA Presidential ambition.

A son of the soil and past general secretary of the NBA, Hon. Nimi Walson Jack spoke to the credibility of the Learned Silk. He thanked the branch as he recognized the role they played towards pushing him to the NBA national in the past. He assured members of the branch that the Learned Silk is truly a man of his words as they have remained friends for a long time. He noted that the judiciary and the legal profession in Nigeria are currently plagued with certain challenges and as such, the NBA is in need of a leader who can stand up to the current “madness” being faced by the legal profession in the country. He rounded up his speech by stating that although Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN is not “mentally mad”, he has “mad ideas” that can be utilized in addressing the current challenges faced by the Bar. Also, Mr. Ogaga Emoghwanre, publicity secretary of NBA, Benin branch was present at the branch’s meeting.

Group photographs were taken at the end of the meeting and members of the branch had the opportunity of exchanging pleasantries with the Learned Silk.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 26, 2022
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GADZAMA GETS ROUSING WELCOME BY NBA PORT HARCOURT BAR LEADERS

The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC), Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN has received a warm welcome by some Bar Leaders on his arrival in Port Harcourt for the branch monthly meeting.

A statement on his arrival reads:

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN alongside Hon. Nimi Walson Jack, past general secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association, Dafe Akpomudiare, Esq. and Hillary Ayebaifie Ojeke were seen some minutes ago at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Rivers State.

The Learned Silk and his entourage were warmly welcomed by a team of NBA, Port Harcourt branch members led by Victor Agala and Tamunokuro Akuro George. Mr. Kingsley Nyesom Chinda also joined the team who received the Learned Silk.

The Learned Silk is currently in Port Harcourt for an official duty as he is to attend the monthly meeting of the branch and deliver a paper on the theme, “Attaining Greatness in the Legal Profession: Tips for Young Lawyers” as the guest speaker of this month’s edition of the branch’s meeting. The Learned Silk will also use this opportunity to socialize with lawyers, both young and old in the branch.

As you may recall, the Learned Silk just returned from his trip to three North Western states; Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara on Sunday, May 22, 2022. Earlier this month, he also attended Bar activities in Kwara state and some states in the east which include: Enugu state, Imo state, Ebonyi state amongst others. His recent activities reinforces his dedication and commitment to the development of the NBA.

We look forward to the Learned Silk’s activities during his stay in the city of Port Harcourt.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 25, 2022
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GADZAMA TOURS NBA UMUAHIA, ABAKALIKI, BIRNIN-KEBBI ENDORSES HIM

A leading aspirant in the forthcoming Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Elections and Chairman of the NBA Security Agencies Relations Committee, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has visited NBA Abakaliki, Owerri and Birnin-Kebbi branches to felicitate with them.

Below are the statements on the visits.

NBA ABAKILIKI BRANCH HOSTED J-K GADZAMA, SAN TO AN INTERACTIVE SESSION

Recently, the former Governor of the Eastern Bar Forum, Arthur Chukwu, Esq. Barr. Okorie (Chairman, Abakaliki Branch) ( Okwuluora of Ukpo ) and his entourage including Chukwuma Ezeala, Esq. (President, National Association of Catholic Lawyers of Nigeria), Chief Prince Chukwudi (Director-General Vox Populi Foundation for Leadership), Clement Chukwuemeka, Esq., V.O Ehiosun, Esq. and Ebube Okpogu, Esq.

The interaction kicked off with opening prayer which was led by the Executives of the Abakiliki Branch. Afterwards, the session was called to order and Arthur Chukwu, Esq. addressed the attendees on the reason for the meeting. Speaking to all who were present, the Former Governor of Eastern Bar Forum, expressed his full and unreserved support and commitment to the aspiration of Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN in fostering the development of the Nigerian Bar Association.

The Former Attorney General, Mr. Jossy Eze, also reiterated his support for the vision of Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his commitment to ensuring its implementation in Abakiliki. The Chairman of the Branch, also assured the attendees that the vision of J-K Gadzama, SAN was an all-inclusive one which every lawyer should key into. He also reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the Abakiliki Bar supports the vision.

In addressing the attendees on behalf of J-K Gadzama, SAN, Chukwuma Ezeala, Esq. thanked all the attendees and asked that they continue to support the vision wholeheartedly. He introduced J-K Gadzama, SAN as a one who was one of them and not just a visitor and urged members of the Abakiliki Branch to be supportive in creating a better NBA.

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN finally addressed the attendees; telling them his personal experiences and how God had saved his life in several occasions. He said, “God has spared my life so that I can continue to serve humanity and in my service to the NBA, my loyalty is to first the Constitution of the NBA, second, the Nigerian Constitution and finally, God Almighty. This is not a speech making event. I know you are committed to the course of the NBA and so, I have come to thank you.

The session closed with closing prayers and an aura of merriment as the members and executives of the Branch were treated to sumptuous delicacies.

EQUITY BAR ENDORSES J-K GADZAMA, SAN.

The members of NBA Birnin Kebbi Branch (Equity Bar), came out in their numbers to endorse J-K Gadzama, SAN as their candidate for NBA President in the forthcoming NBA election.

They made this endorsement on Friday, May 20, 2022 when J-K Gadzama, SAN and his distinguished entourage paid the branch a visit.

Speaking on behalf of the members of the branch who came out in their numbers for J-K Gadzama, SAN, Abubakar Abdullahi, Esq., The Principal Partner of A. Abdullahi & Co., who mobilized Counsel from the branch, said the Learned Silk is a man of many good things, a man of pedigree and that he has never had any doubt about the ability of the learned senior advocate to lead the Bar.

He stated that none of the three presidential aspirants is a member of the Equity Bar and as such, they will be equitable and fair in their choice more so that the only geographical zone that is yet to produce the NBA President is the North East.

“The Branch will be objective, we will vote with our conscience and without sentiments”. He said.

Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed an elder of the Branch stated that the Branch believes in merit and judging from all areas, J-K Gadzama, SAN has merited to be the NBA President.

Elder Mohammed Audie promised to support the learned silk. He stated that he had decided to stay away from the politics of NBA but that he is making a u-turn because of the the good works that trail J-K Gadzama.

While reacting to comments, Chief J-K Gadzama, SAN stated that he will promote constitutional democracy, rule of law, transparency, accountability and good governance.

He further stated that he will be loyal to the NBA Constitution and the Nigerian Constitution.

It is worthy of note that the Branch came out in their numbers to endorse the Learned Silk.

Notable attendees included H.E Alh. Garba Gajam, former Nigerian Ambassador to the State of Kuwait and Kingdom of Bahrain, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, Esq., Managing Partner, Castle of Law and a human rights activist, Junaidu Abubakar, Esq., Chairman, NBA Gusau Branch, Abubakar Abdullahi, Esq., Principal Partner A. Abdullahi & co. A. A. Umar, Esq., Elder Mohammed Audie, Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed, Esq., Clement Chinedum, Esq.,

Also in attendance were members of the Young Lawyers Forum, Kebbi Branch and Members of the Nigerian Youth Service Corps, Members of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, Birnin Kebbi, members of the CLASFON, and MULAN, Birnin Kebbi.

J-K Gadzama SAN and entourage later that day paid a courtesy call on K.T. Turaki SAN, the Dan Masanin Gwandu and a former Minister for special duties and NLS classmate of J-K Gadzama of the 1986 set who hosted us to a lavish dinner at his palatial home in Birnin Kebbi.

REMINISCENCE: J-K GADZAMA, SAN SIT-OUT SESSIONS WITH NBA UMUAHIA BRANCH.

The Learned Silk and Bar Patriot, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN recently had a sit-out session with the Members, Executives and Young Lawyers’ Forum of the NBA Umuahia Branch at Unique Life Hotel Suits.

The session which began at about 6:30pm saw the attendance of Executives of the Young Lawyers’ Forum, Bar Leaders, Elders and Members of the NBA Umuahia Branch. The Chairman of the NBA Umuahia Branch was also present to welcome the Learned Silk and his entourage of friends.

Mrs. Chioma Ferguson, Esq. gave addressed the attendees after the opening remarks of the Chairman of the Branch. She greeted all the attendees and welcomed them to the gathering. According to her, their attendance and show of hospitality was reflective of a true spirit of compadre which is the disposition all lawyers must have in piloting the affairs of the Nigerian Bar and moving it towards higher heights. She said the Learned Silk was not one to be introduced and that the gathering was not for formalities but was called together to harmonize efforts and cross-pollinate ideas towards achieving the betterment of the Nigerian Bar. She then urged all members and executives of the NBA Umuahia Branch to be steadfast in their support and unwavering as the times ahead would determine the future of the NBA.

In addressing all the attendees, the Learned Silk said that the event was not one to make long speeches but one to accord everyone an opportunity to familiarize with each other, exchange ideas and see how collective efforts can be made towards ensuring that the Nigerian Bar Association culminates to its fullest potential and attain higher heights. He applauded the administration of the President, Mr. Olumide Akpata and commended the giant strides of the NBA under his tenure in office. The Learned Silk further mentioned that the good works of the President must be maintained and continued.

Thereafter, representatives from different factions of the Branch made comments, following which an interactive session ensued which was closed with a treat to a buffet.

As a spin off from the evening sit-out, the Learned Silk had a breakfast session with the members of the NBA Umuahia and Aba Branch the following morning before bidding them final farewells. Whilst addressing them, the Learned Silk reiterated the need for consistency in commitment to the improvement of the legal profession in Nigeria. He talked on the need for adherence to the Constitution of the NBA and the Nigerian Constitution in the discharge of official duties and urged the Young Lawyers to imbibe and conform to the etiquettes and tenents of the profession even in their career pursuits.

He thanked all the attendees and the the Vice Chairman of the Young Lawyers’Forum, Umuahia gave the closing remarks.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 25, 2022
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AHAMBA, DIKE, OTHERS HOST GADZAMA

One of the leading aspirants for the post of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Presidency, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has paid courtesy visits to the Chief Judge of Ebonyi State, Justice Nicholas Nwode.

Gadzama, who is also the Chairman of the Chairman of the Body of Benchers Mentoring Committee for Young Lawyers, also visited some Bar Leaders including NBA Trustee, Chief Anthony Mogboh SAN; Chief Mike Ahamba SAN, and Prof. F. C. Dike SAN.

Below are statements on the visits.

REMINISCENCE: J-K GADZAMA, SAN PAYS COURTESY VISITS TO THE NEW BAR HOUSE, NBA ABAKILIKI AND THE CHIEF JUDGE OF EBONYI STATE

Recently, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his entourage paid a courtesy visit to the almost completed NBA Bar House in Ebonyi State. The Learned Silk made the courtesy call with the Chairman, NBA Abakiliki Branch and Former Governor, Eastern Bar Forum. The Branch Chairman, Barr. Okorie gave the Learned Silk a tour around the facility. The Learned Silk, delightfully professed his satisfaction with the level of development of the NBA Abakiliki Bar and urged the Leadership to continue making giant strides towards improvement.

The Learned Silk then took courtesy photographs with everyone present and proceeded to the residence of the Chief Judge of Ebonyi State, Hon. Justice. Nicholas Nwode.

The Chief Judge of the State gave a robust welcome to the Learned Silk and members of the NBA Abakiliki Branch. Addressing all who were present, the Learned Silk thanked the Honourable Chief Judge for the hospitable reception and lauded his efforts in contributing positively to the Nigerian Bar. The Learned Silk said the visit was necessary because he had heard of the exploits of the Honourable Justice and his immense contributions to the Bar and thought it necessary to thank the Honourable Justice for his continuous support.

The Honourable Justice thanked everyone for the courtesy visit and entreated all to continue making efforts towards the achievement of a free and fair society where justice and the rule of law prevails. Group photographs were taken thereafter and the Honourable Justice bidded the visitors farewell.

“EQUITY SEES AS DONE THAT WHICH OUGHT TO BE DONE…,” PROF. F. C DIKE, SAN AND OTHER VETERANS OF NBA OWERRI BRANCH SUPPORT ASPIRATION OF JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN alongside friends and supporters from the Owerri Branch of the NBA and his South-East coordinator, Lawrence Nwakaeti, Esq. recently paid courtesy visits to Learned Silks, Mike Ahamba, SAN and Prof. F.C. Dike, SAN immediately after the interactive session with members of the Owerri Branch of the NBA.

The Eminent Silk and Professor of Law, welcomed J-K Gadzama, SAN to his residence, exchanged pleasantries and addressed the lawyers in the Learned Silk’s entourage. According to the Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama is a household name in the service of the NBA. He gave his assurance to the Learned Silk, saying, “Equity deems as done that which ought to be done. By the Grace of God, your aspiration is already a reality because, it ought to be as you’re well qualified and experienced”.

Prof. F. C Dike, SAN further assured that all hands would be on deck and the relevant persons would be addressed to see that the vision of Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN for the Nigerian Bar comes to fruition.

In response, the Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN thanked Prof. F.C Dike, SAN for his immense support. Thereafter both Silks took photographs with the entourage.

Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN also visited the residence of Mike Ahamba, SAN where he was delightfully welcomed by the Learned Silk’s family. Both Silks interacted extensively on the welfare of the NBA and the future of the Nigerian Legal Profession. Learned Silk, Mike Ahamba, SAN gifted an autographed copy of his book titled, “Getting it Right in Nigeria”, to Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN. He also assured the veteran Bar Patriot of his support.

JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN COURTESY VISIT TO FOREMOST ELDER, ENUGU BAR, CHIEF A. O. MOGBOH, SAN

Learned Silk, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN and his entourage including Jude Ezegwui, Esq. (The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Enugu Branch), Chukwuma Ezeala, Esq.(President, National Association of Catholic Lawyers of Nigeria), Chief Prince Chukwudi (Director-General Vox Populi Foundaty for Leadership), Clement Chukwuemeka, Esq. and Ebube Charity Okpogu, Esq. recently paid a courtesy visit to the revered Chief A.O Mogboh, SAN at his residence in Enugu.

Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN greeted Chief Mogboh, SAN thanking him for the audience granted them and explained that he had come to get the blessings and support of the Enugu Bar to assist him in implementing his ideas for the Nigerian Bar. According to Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN the Nigerian Bar Association being umbrella Association for legal practitioners in Nigeria could implement a lot of changes in the Nigerian society by creating platforms where the older and more experienced Lawyers can inculcate virtues in the Young Lawyers who being the future of the Nation, can better implement same to see the achievement of a better society.

Chief A.O Mogboh, SAN thanked the Learned Silk for coming and asked him to continue the good work of mentorship to the young lawyers and support the course of the NBA.

Group photographs were later taken and the Learned Silks bade farewell.

HON. ENGR. CHINWE MBAH, MNSE, R.ENGR. HOST J-K GADZAMA, SAN AND THE CHAIRMAN OF THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION, NBA, ENUGU BRANCH JUDE EZEGWUI TO A DELECTABLE DINNER.

On Saturday, April 23, 2022, J-K Gadzama, SAN (Okwuluora of Ukpo) and his entourage including Jude Ezegwui, Esq. (The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Enugu Branch), Chukwuma Ezeala, Esq. (President, National Association of Catholic Lawyers of Nigeria), Chief Prince Chukwudi (Director-General Vox Populi Foundaty for Leadership), Clement Chukwuemeka, Esq., V.O Ehiosun, Esq. and Ebube Charity Okpogu, Esq. had a delectable Dinner with Hon. Engr. Chinwe Mbah at her residence.

The Chairman of NBA Enugu Branch Jude Ezegwui in his remarks stated that J-K Gadzama, SAN is an honorable man of the Bar, credible and competent to take the affairs of the Bar to next level. He reiterated his undeniable support for him, his believe that he has all the qualities of a good leader and not scared to show his support as he will not fail the Bar. He further appealed to everyone there present to support him in order to actualize what he has to offer.

In addressing the attendees, J-K Gadzama, SAN ceded the floor to Douglas Ogbankwa, Esq. who thanked all the attendees and the event planners for the wonderful dinner.
He commended Mrs. Chinwe Mbah and her crew for the special Igbo delicacies.

Engr. Chinwe Mbah also expressed her gratitude for the warm visitation and stated that she has heard good remarks about J-K Gadzama, SAN and would urge every lawyer to support him to the fullest.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 23, 2022
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GADZAMA ASSURES LAWYERS OF OPEN-DOOR POLICY

The Chairman of the Body of Benchers Mentoring Committee for Young Lawyers, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has assured the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) members that he would operate an open-door policy if elected President.

Gadzama made this promise while addressing NBA Sokoto Branch members at the Amma Hall, Dankani Guest Inn, Sokoto on Friday, May 20, 2022.

A statement on the visit reads:

The learned silk while recounting his vast experiences, said he is more morally, mentally, physically, psychologically and professionally qualified to be the next NBA President. He stated that the Profession of Law made him what he is and that he is ready to give back to the Bar. “I will listen to you, I will give you your dues, I will carry everyone along. I only fear God, I fear no man, I respect every man and I will rebrand the sleeping Giant”. He said.

His Excellency, Alh. Garba Gajam, former Nigerian Ambassador to Kuwait and a two-time Attorney-General of Zamfara state, while giving his speech stated that the only person capable of sustaining what the Current NBA President, Olumide Akpata has done or even better is J-K Gadzama, SAN. He talked about the competence, capacity and capability of JK Gadzama, SAN to be the next NBA President as well as the importance of ensuring J-K Gadzama’s success in the election.

In her welcome address, Soffyah Mohammed Esq., Chairperson, NBA Sokoto Branch, welcomed the Learned silk and his esteemed entourage.

In his goodwill message, The Hon. Attorney-General of Sokoto State, Mr. Suleiman Usman, SAN, stated that Chief J-K Gadzama is a man of many facets, a Bar man who has gained experiences in all areas of Law within and outside of Nigeria and advised Sokoto Lawyers to do the needful in the coming NBA election.

Chief Jacob Enunwe Ochidi, SAN, former Chairman of the Caliphate Bar, while giving his goodwill message, stated that he regretted not voting for J-K Gadzama in times past but said he will do the needful this time around. “I present to you J-K Gadzama, I commend him to you, vote with your conscience and I assure you he will not disappoint us.” He said.

In their individual goodwill messages, Prof Ibrahim Abdulahi, SAN and A. Y. Abubakar Esq. pledged their support and wish J-K. Gadzama, SAN success in the forthcoming 2022 NBA National Election.

Lastly, Junaidu Abubakar Esq. Chairman, NBA Gusau Branch, thanked the Governor of Sokoto State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and the Hon. Attorney-General of Sokoto State, Suleiman Usman, SAN for hosting J-K Gadzama and his entourage.

In Attendance were: The Governor of Sokoto State, H.E Aminu Tambuwal, ably represented by the Hon. Attorney-General, Sokoto State, Suleiman Usman, SAN; Jacob Ochidi, SAN, former Chairman NBA, Sokoto Branch; Prof. Ibrahim Abdulahi, SAN; His Excellency, Ambassador Garba Gajam, former Nigerian Ambassador to Kuwait; Safiyyah Mohammed Esq, incumbent Chairperson NBA Sokoto Branch; S.S. Auta Esq, Secretary, NBA Sokoto Branch; Dr. Kayode Ajulo, Principal Partner, Castle of Law and Human Rights Activist; Mr. A. Y. Abubakar Esq; Barr Aisha Ka’oji, Director Public Prosecution, Sokoto State Ministry of Justice; Barr Zainab Gandi, FIDA Chairperson and Zonal Head, Federal Ministry of Justice; Mohammed Adeleke Esq, MULAN Chairman, Sokoto; Solomon Alimosunya Esq; Abdulhamid Zubairu Esq.; B. M. Jodi Esq; Sokoto State APC Legal Adviser; Barr Shafa Mujtaba Ahmad, Treasurer, NBA Sokoto Branch; Kelechi D. Ogobunna Esq., Former Head of Chambers, Y. C. Mai-Kyau & Co., Sokoto office; Abdulraham Dahiru Esq. and a host of others.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 21, 2022
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GADZAMA LLP WELCOMES BAR ASPIRANTS FROM LAW SCHOOL

J-K Gadzama LLP has welcomed 19 Students of the Nigerian Law School for chambers attachment, the second arm of their externship programme.

The Founding Principal Partner of J-K Gadzama LLP, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN, a Life Bencher and the Chairman Mentoring Committee of the Body of Benchers for Young Lawyers, personally welcomed the externs from the Nigerian Law School into his firm.

A statement from the law firm said: “We must also mention that the Learned Silk is known in the legal space for his strong passion towards legal education in Nigeria amongst others. The Learned Silk was a member of the Council of Legal Education of Nigeria as well as the General Council of the Bar and has, for over a decade now, donated a prize to the Nigerian Law School for the best student in Criminal and Civil Litigation.

“The externs of the Nigerian Law School include the following:

1. Mustapha Asma’u Buba;
2. Sadiq Ibrahim Mohammed;
3. Iwu Chikezie Micheal;
4. Naankiel Esther Dati;
5. Abounu Onmonya Mary;
6. Saiki Abdulmuizz Amoto;
7. Obioma Wisdom Chukwubuikem;
8. Okorie-Kalu, Joyce Ezinne;
9. Esifa Victor Okon;
10. Udueze Micheal Nnamdi;
11. Osademwingie Nosa Obaizamomwan;
12. Ibeh Faith Ogochukwu;
13. Edeh Marvellous Chiamaka;
14. Akpamgbo Vivian;
15. Martins Peace Suneksumen;
16. Bawa Dakingari Ahmed Rufa’i;
17. Dauda Jafiada Madubu;
18. Akintola Oluwapelumi Deborah, and
19. Nzekwe Elozona Christian

“We are confident that this will be a stepping block to the greatness that they will achieve in the Legal Profession. We wish them the best in their endeavours.”

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 21, 2022
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NLC PRESIDENT, WABBA VISITS GADZAMA

The President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Ayuba Wabba has paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association Security Agencies Relations Committee, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN.

A statement on the visit reads:

PRESIDENT OF NIGERIAN LABOUR CONGRESS, MR. ALIYU WABBA PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO JOE-KYARI GADZAMA, SAN

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) is the umbrella organization for trade unions in Nigeria. The NLC is saddled with the responsibility of ensuring better working conditions and treatment of employees from their employers and the implementation of labour and employment laws promulgated by the government.

On Wednesday, April 27, the esteemed President of the NLC, Comrade Aliyu Wabba paid a visit to the Joe-Kyari Gadzama, OFR, MFR, SAN in his office at J-K Gadzama Court, Abuja.

The Learned Silk and the NLC President had a closed door interactive session. The Learned Silk who is an adept professional in the Nigerian Labour Sector must have cross-fertilized ideas with the NLC President and harmonize efforts towards achieving and improving the Nigerian Labour Sector.

After the meeting, the NLC President took courtesy photos with Counsel in J-K Gadzama LLP and the Learned Silk.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 20, 2022
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ECNBA CLEARS GADZAMA, MAIKYAU, TAIDI, OTHERS FOR NBA ELECTIONS

The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) has cleared three presidential gladiators for the race for NBA President, CITY LAWYER can authoritatively report.

However, some aspirants for the positions of NBA First Vice President and NBA Second Vice President among others are among casualties who fell under the ECNBA disqualification hammer.

Among those cleared to participate in the July 16, 2022 poll are Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN, Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau SAN and Mr. Jonathan Taidi.

CITY LAWYER also gathered from a source who is familiar with the process that the elelctoral committee completed the screening process within the constitutional timeline and had started dispatching emails to aspirants on the success or otherwise of their applications.

More details shortly.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 18, 2022
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GADZAMA URGES POLICE TO RESPECT LAWYERS’ RIGHTS

The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Security Agencies Relations Committee, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has stated that the best way to maintain law and order in the society is through the Police.

Speaking at a training workshop in Abuja organized by NBA in collaboration with MacArthur Foundation , Gadzama emphasized the need for the police to pay utmost respect to lawyers in the course of representing their clients.

Below is the statement made available to CITY LAWYER on the event.

“LAWYERS AS PEOPLE OF NOBILITY AND DIGNITY SHOULD BE TREATED WITH RESPECT BY THE POLICE, PARTICULARLY BY FOLLOWING DUE PROCESS….,” SAYS JOE-KYARI GADZAMA SAN, OFR, MFR

The Nigerian Bar Association in collaboration with MacArthur Foundation on May 18, 2022 held a training and workshop at the NBA National Secretariat, Plot 1101 Muhammadu Buhari Way, Central Business District, Abuja FCT, Nigeria with the theme “The Role of the Nigeria Police in the Implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act,2015 and Compliance with Principles of Human Rights in Law Enforcement”.

The training was anchored by Ogaga Emoghwanre, Esq. and started with the Nigerian National Anthem followed by the NBA National prayer.

Tobenna Erojikwe, Esq., Chairman, NBA Institute of Continuing Legal Education, a facilitator at the workshop welcomed, introduced participants, and urged them to sit tight, learn, and participate fully while at the training.

Honourable Justice Hussein Baba Yusuf, Chief Judge, FCT High Court was ably represented by Honourable Justice M. E. Anenih, Judge of the FCT High Court. My Lord in his speech commended MacArthur Foundation and the Institute of Continuing Legal Education for the initiative and also applauded participants for coming out in mass to be trained and learn at the impressive workshop.

My Lord further pronounced the workshop as one that should not be trivialized but recognized because it is apt and timely.
He reiterated on the Administration of Criminal Justice Act as one that aids in the seamless dispensation of Justice, rule of law, and maintaining delivery in the legal institution.

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN , Chairman, NBA-SARC in delivering his goodwill message at the workshop, quoted section 214 of the Constitution of Nigeria that establishes the Police Force and Section 4 of the Police Act which provides for the functions of the Nigeria Police.

The learned Silk further posited that the best way to preserve law and order in the society is through the Police. He further emphasized on the dignity of lawyers and how they ought to be treated with utmost respect by the police.
Going further, he urged participants to extend knowledge gained at the workshop to others, as it is not enough to learn and not share knowledge. He implored the audience to pay attention and wish them an informative workshop and training in conclusion.

Idris Bawa, Esq. Made a presentation on the procedures of arrest, suspects of crime, instances where the police can arrest without warrant, and expounded on the duties of the police in general.

Umar Mohammed, Director of Public Prosecution, Federal Ministry of Justice who was represented by A.A Yusuf, expounded on the innovations of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act with regards to the Police in dispensation of Justice.
He raised the issue of remuneration for State Counsel and Nigeria Police, and on the abrupt takeover of cases by the Attorney General, interested Parties and Private Practitioners.

The question and answer session was anchored by Kate Okoh-Kpina (Mrs), Advisor, Rule of Law, Giz Police Program, Africa-Nigeria. Vote of thanks was performed by Osita Okoro, Project Team Coordinator. Participants later engaged in networking among one another.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 17, 2022
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YOUNG LAWYERS: GADZAMA MENTORSHIP TRAINING HOLDS NEXT MONTH

The Annual Honourable Justice Chukwudifu Oputa JSC Mentoring Program will hold next month, the organisers, J-K Gadzama LLP have said.

According to a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, this year’s eagerly awaited session is themed “Emerging Areas of Law: The Role of Young Lawyers”.

The statement reads:

Our 7th annual Honourable Justice Chukwudifu Oputa JSC Mentoring Program is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 4, 2022.

The theme of this year’s Mentoring Program is, “Emerging Areas of Law: The Role of Young Lawyers”. As usual, the program promises to be informative.

Young lawyers who are interested in this hybrid event can click on the link below to register:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZckcOGsqD4pGtGwjACP16YVWPS0co68gZE_

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 17, 2022
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KEEPING UP WITH JOE-KYARI GADZAMA – VOL. 9

Keeping Up With Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN, VOL.9

Hey there,

Do not wake up with the regret of what you couldn’t accomplish yesterday. Wake up while thinking about what you can achieve today. Make positive thoughts and enjoy every moment of this day, for everyday is a new beginning.

Take a deep breath, smile and read the attached Volume 9 of the Weekly Newsletter Series of Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN.

Indeed, something wonderful is happening!

#KeepingUpWithJK
#J-K Now

GADZAMA_VOL_9

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