NBA Archives - Page 3 of 5 - CITY LAWYER MAGAZINE

EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 30, 2022
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AMANDA ASAGBA LAUDS NBA KADUNA, ILE-IFE ON LAW WEEK

FEATURED

AMANDA ASAGBA COMMENDS NBA ILE-IFE BRANCH ON LAW WEEK

I rejoice with the Chairperson and Members of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ile Ife Branch on your 2022 Law Week.

The theme of your Law Week, “Exploring the Law as a Catalyst towards a truly Federal State” is very insightful and thought-provoking, especially in this season when centrifugal forces are tugging at the soul of the nation.

I am confident that resolutions from this epoch-making event will contribute immensely in forging the much-needed unity in our country. Ile-Ife, “The Source” remains a great bastion of modern civilization and knowledge that we are all proud of.

I wish you every success during the Law Week and beyond.

AMANDA ASAGBA
Former NBA NEC Rep,
President, African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA)

AMANDA ASAGBA HAILS NBA KADUNA BRANCH ON LAW WEEK

I felicitate with the Branch Chairman, Executive Committee, Planning Committee, Bar Leaders and all members of Kaduna Branch on your 2022 Law Week holding from 27th to 31st May, 2022.

I find the theme of the Law Week, “Expanding the Frontiers of Legal Practice” most apposite in an era when technology has completely disrupted the legal profession.

There is no gainsaying that lawyers who are able to tap into the emerging new trends and deepen their expertise are bound to be much-sought-after in the new era.

I urge you all to utilize the opportunities thrown up by the Law Week to enrich your knowledge in new areas of law and adequately prepare yourselves for the brave new world of law practice.

Congratulations!

AMANDA ASAGBA
Former NBA NEC Rep,
President, African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA)

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

FEATURED

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 30, 2022
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‘TAIDI AS A GREAT LEADER: A PERSONAL TESTAMENT,’ BY IKE AUGUSTINE

OPINION

MR. JONATHAN GUNU TAIDI: A GREAT LEADER THE BAR NEEDS

I have known Mr. Jonathan Gunu Taidi right from the days of my practice in Minna, Niger State. Testimonies abound of his impeccable track record. He is someone who shows so much dedication to any task given to him. His deep passion to see the Bar taking its place as the vanguard for social justice is what drives him to take up leadership roles at the bar. He is very accessible, amiable and above all an astute Bar man. He is an invaluable asset to the Bar.

I feel elated and there is hope of a rejuvenated and virile Bar seeing that he has been cleared by the ECNBA to contest for the office of NBA President in this year’s election.

Ike Augustine, Esq.
Activist and Public Commentator

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 30, 2022
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TAIDI EXTOLS NBA KADUNA, ILE-IFE ON LAW WEEK

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GOODWILL MESSAGE TO CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION ILE IFE BRANCH ON HER 2022 LAW WEEK WITH THE THEME: EXPLORING THE LAW AS A CATALYST TOWARDS A TRULY FEDERAL STATE”

I felicitate with the Chairperson and Members of Ile Ife Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association on her 2022 Law Week.

The programme is focusing on the very important and very controversial aspect of our existence as a nation fondly referred to as ‘Federation,’ when some say we actually practice a military style unitary system where no matter the level of oppression you are expected to fall in line.
This system is the bane of our development as it promotes over dependence on revenue from the centre and leaves unaccountable streams of revenue to be exploited for personal use.

It is my firm conviction that we can get it right by engagements such as this and by continuing the sort of discourse aimed at fashioning a truly federal state where equity and justice prevail.

I am delighted that this discussion is holding at the ‘source’ of the great O’dua heritage and hope the outcome will be the foundation of a true federation.

Jonathan Gunu Taidi, Esq.
Candidate for NBA President

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION KADUNA BRANCH ON HER 2022 LAW WEEK

I felicitate with the Chairman, Law Week Organising Committee and Members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Kaduna Branch on the occasion of the 2022 Law Week on the theme: “Expanding the Frontiers of Legal Practice”.

At independence, legal practice in the Nigerian parlance connotes litigation. However, overtime, other areas of practice of law evolved in response to the emerging dynamics of society.

In the 21st century there abound relatively new areas that are either dominated by expatriates who have no right of audience under our law or where we have very few members with expertise to shine in those areas.

There is therefore the need to equip ourselves with the requisite knowledge on diverse and emerging areas of law so that we put a permanent wedge on incursion from foreigners under whatever guise or shade.

This law week affords us the platform to interrogate the challenges bedevelling our ability to diversify into emerging practice areas and stem the tide of pervasive external incursion into our legal space. I therefore challenge participants to take advantage of this platform to discover solutions for our overall benefit.

I wish distinguished participants a rewarding experience and fruitful outcome.

Jonathan Gunu Taidi, Esq.
Candidate for NBA President

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 29, 2022
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SAFIYA BALARABE PRAISES NBA MAKURDI ON LAW WEEK

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SAFIYA BALARABE’S GOODWILL MESSAGE TO THE MAKURDI BRANCH ON THE OCCASION OF ITS 2022 LAW WEEK

The 2022 Law Week of the Makurdi branch of the NBA kick-started yesterday, May 27th, 2022. Read below Safiya Balarabe’s message to the branch on this occasion: “Distinguished Chairman, Executives and Members of the Makurdi branch, I extend my regards to you in this period of your Law Week celebration.

The theme: ‘Democracy, Electoral process and the paradigm of change in Nigeria’ is nothing short of apposite. Democracy in its true form portends that elected officials rule with transparency and are accountable to the people from whom they obtained legitimacy. Our Electoral Act though recently amended, still has a long way to go if we truly desire to enhance democracy in government; thus enabling a fully participatory system.

Progress is impossible without change, hence there must be a paradigm shift from the extant arrangement wherein the very people who are to be represented have no say in whom is presented to them for voting. This is necessary to wipe out the totality of the kleptocratic elites that have hindered our country’s development. . Conclusively, as you conclude your Law Week celebration, I strongly believe that you will leave no stone unturned in doing justice to this theme and drive home the all important need for change in our political system. God bless you”.

Signed:

Safiya Balarabe Treasurer

NBA Women Forum

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 29, 2022
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‘THERE IS NEED TO COMPILE WELFARE NEEDS OF LAWYERS,’ SAYS MAXIMUS UGWUOKE

FEATURED

“THERE IS NEED TO CURATE THE WELFARE NEEDS OF LAWYERS ACROSS THE 125 BRANCHES OF NBA”- MAXIMUS UGWUOKE , AS HE FELICITATES WITH NBA PORTHARCOURT, NSUKKA, ABAKILIKI, OKIGWE, OJI RIVER, OBOLLO AFOR, GWAGWALADA AND OTHERS

Ikechukwu Maximus Ugwuoke frontline candidate for National Welfare Secretary position of the NBA has advocated the need to curate the welfare needs of members of the NBA across the 125 branches of the bar. He made the observation in his felicitation to the various branches of NBA that held their monthly meeting last week, namely, NBA Portharcourt, Nsukka, Oji River, Okigwe, Abakiliki, Ahoada, Gwagwalada and Anaocha Branches of the bar.

According to him “I have observed in the course of my visit to various branches of the NBA across the country that the welfare needs of members of the NBA vary from one branch to another even though some of the needs are central to all the branches of the bar. For the welfare needs of Lawyers in Nigeria to be adequately addressed, there is need to curate these needs from one branch to another taking into account the peculiarities of the welfare need of each branch . Given the opportunity to serve the bar as the National Welfare Secretary curating the welfare needs of the 125 branches of the NBA is the way to go. This will be achieved through a publicized email address where this welfare needs will be complied, analyzed and made available to the President of NBA to enable him have adequate data required for his effective and efficient decision making around the welfare of lawyers. This is top notch in my Maximum Welfare vision for the bar.
The issues discussed by the members of the bar during their monthly meetings that held simultaneously in various branches of the bar last week, some of which I participated, underscore this point. I really commend the members of the following branches of the bar that held their monthly meeting last week and the branch leaders for the capacity they have demonstrated in providing leadership to the bar; the NBA Portharcourt Branch led by Nyekwere, Nsukka bar led by Ugo Fed Ukwueze, Oji River Bar led by Seth Nwokolo, Okigwe bar led by Ndeme Romi, Abakiliki Bar led by Ogbonnaya Okorie, Ahoada Bar led by Alili Kipe Morris and the Gwagwalada and Anaocha Branches of the bar.

I pray that God shall endow them with greater wisdom to continue to pilot the affairs of their branches especially at this critical period when many of them are in their transition process.”

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
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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SAFIYA BALARABE ACCLAIMS NBA ISIOKPO YOUNG LAWYERS

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SAFIYA BALARABE’S GOODWILL MESSAGE TO YOUNG LAWYERS’ FORUM ISIOKPO BRANCH ON ONE DAY SEMINAR

The Young Lawyers’ Forum, Isiokpo branch has put together a power-packed one day Seminar themed: “Contemporary Areas in Legal Practice: Challenges and Prospects for Young Lawyers”. The event which holds today, 27th May, 2022 features notable legal personalities.

Safiya Balarabe’s goodwill message to the Forum is reproduced below:

“The Chairman, Executives and Members of the Young Lawyers’ Forum, Isiokpo branch,

It gives me great pleasure to commend you for taking out time to organize a program that chronicles the legal elevation of young lawyers within and outside your branch.

‘Contemporary Areas in Legal Practice: Challenges and Prospects for Young Lawyers’ is a theme so well couched, it could not have been any better. This theme coupled with the array of seasoned speakers you have selected informs of the capacity with which your Forum conduct its affairs.

It is my desire that every young lawyer in Nigeria has access to quality opportunities to foster growth. This program is a great boost in this regard.

May your Forum never run out of steam.

Thank and God bless”

Signed:
Safiya Balarabe
Treasurer, NBA Women Forum.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 28, 2022
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CHILDREN’S DAY: ‘REVERSE NIGERIA’S MEDIOCRITY CULTURE,’ SAYS TAIDI

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Dear Children,

You were born into a country many of us grew to know as Nigeria.

Nigeria held a lot of promise at conception, and was a country you would have been proud of. Sadly, over the years, the huge potentials have been dwarfed by so many harmful legacies including: epileptic power supply, poor infrastructure, low productivity, poverty and insecurity, all bequeathed to us by several years of deceptive and inept leadership.

As you grow, learn to reverse the mediocrity that has become our bane. Grow up with determination and the will to do the right thing so that generations after you will respect how you refused to continue on the deplorable path that was handed to you.

As always, I wish you a happy Children’s day.

Jonathan Gunu Taidi, Esq.
Legal Practitioner

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 27, 2022
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ECNBA RELEASES LIST OF CANDIDATES, CLEARS GADZAMA, MAIKYAU, OTHERS

The Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) has released the list of candidates for the forthcoming NBA National Elections.

As earlier reported by CITY LAWYER, all the three presidential aspirants were cleared by the electoral committee. These are Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN, Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau SAN and Mr. Jonathan Taidi.

Aside from the presidential candidates, three candidates were cleared for the post of 1st Vice President while only three aspirants were also cleared for the post of 2nd Vice President.

Two aspirants will slug it out for the post of 3rd Vice President while four candidates will battle for the post of General Secretary.

Assistant General Secretary has four candidates while three candidates will battle for the Treasurer position. On the other hand, Welfare Secretary has five candidates while Publicity Secretary has only two candidates. The same number of candidates will battle for the post of Assistant Publicity Secretary.

The position of NBA representatives for the General Council of the Bar has 22 candidates to do battle.

It was unclear at press time how appeals by some disqualified aspirants may affect the final list.

ECNBA_Nominated Candidates

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 27, 2022
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‘BOSAN IS UNDERMINING NBA PRESIDENT,’ SAYS TAIDI

The immediate past Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) General Secretary, Mr. Jonathan Gunu Taidi has blasted the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN) for allegedly undermining the office of the NBA President.

In a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, Taidi, who is vying for the position of NBA President in the forthcoming elections, said that instances of alleged undermining efforts “have become intolerable and deserving of serious condemnation, even sanction.”

He stated that “The latest of these catalogue of breaches is the attempt to subvert the existing order of precedence during the Valedictory Court Session in honour of retiring Justice of the Supreme Court Ejembi Eko, J.S.C. where some senior members of the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN) caused the altering of the existing protocol which rightly recognizes the President of the NBA ahead of the Chairman of BOSAN.”

Taidi warned that “the NBA President is the president of all, irrespective of whether or not they belong to BOSAN, or whether or not they belong to the inner bar or outer bar,” adding that BOSAN should focus on major challenges that hobble the judiciary “instead of this quibbling over who should be recognized first at a public forum.”

Saying there are BOSAN members with serious disciplinary issues, the former NBA scribe stated that “rather than this tendency to use every opportunity to undermine the Bar leadership, it is advisable that BOSAN directs its energies at redressing some very gross acts committed by the rank of its membership, some of which are so heinous that they are included in the law reports. Undoubtedly, such acts are inimical to the progress of the noble profession and should be discouraged.”

The statement reads:

The recurring attempts by some senior members of the inner bar to undermine the office the NBA President have become intolerable and deserving of serious condemnation, even sanction. A series of egregious actions which seek to reduce the leadership of the bar has recently come to fore and it is clear that a group within the inner bar is determined to wage an unnecessary war of attrition on the NBA, which is the umbrella body of all lawyers in Nigeria.

The latest of these catalogue of breaches is the attempt to subvert the existing order of precedence during the Valedictory Court Session in honour of retiring Justice of the Supreme Court Ejembi Eko, J.S.C. where some senior members of the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN) caused the altering of the existing protocol which rightly recognizes the President of the NBA ahead of the Chairman of BOSAN.

For the avoidance of doubt, the NBA President is the president of all, irrespective of whether or not they belong to BOSAN, or whether or not they belong to the inner bar or outer bar.

I believe that the judicial system of this country has serious problems requiring immediate remedy, issues that go to the very heart of the practice of law in this country, issues that should rather engage the erudite minds of our senior advocates instead of this quibbling over who should be recognized first at a public forum.

I humbly suggest that BOSAN as a body focuses its efforts on mentorship in its respective jurisdictions and preparing young minds to take maximum advantage of emerging opportunities for legal practice. Indeed, rather than engage in a needless tussle vide order of precedence, BOSAN will do well to ensure that its members who have been indicted for all kinds of infractions receive the discipline they deserve.

In other words, rather than this tendency to use every opportunity to undermine the Bar leadership, it is advisable that BOSAN directs its energies at redressing some very gross acts committed by the rank of its membership, some of which are so heinous that they are included in the law reports. Undoubtedly, such acts are inimical to the progress of the noble profession and should be discouraged.

It bears repeating that attempts at undermining the status of the President of the Nigerian Bar Association are unwarranted from anyone, and even more invidious when they come from an associate body like BOSAN.

Jonathan Gunu Taidi, Esq.
NBA General Secretary (2018 – 2020)

BOSAN could not be reached for comments at press time.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 27, 2022
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MAXIMUS UGWUOKE DEDICATES ECNBA CLEARANCE TO SUPPORTERS

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MAXIMUS UGWUOKE DEDICATES HIS CLEARANCE FOR NBA NATIONAL WELFARE SECRETARY ELECTION TO GOD AND SUPPORTERS

Ikechukwu Maximus Ugwuoke, frontline aspirant to the office of National Welfare Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association has received his notice of qualification to stand election for the position in the NBA election scheduled for July 16th 2022.

In reaction Ugwuoke has dedicated his clearance to God and to his supporters and surmised that God has the final say.

His reaction reads;

“This morning I received a notice from the Electoral Committee of Nigeria Bar Association (ECNBA) expressing their pleasure to inform me that I am qualified to stand for election into the office of
“Welfare Secretary” of NBA in the Election scheduled to hold on Saturday, July 16, 2022.

I dedicate this clearance conveyed in this notice of my qualification which I received today 26th day of May 2022 to God who laid in my heart the desire and vision to seek and pursue an HAKUNA MATATA Regime of MAXIMUM WELFARE for the Nigerian Lawyers; And to my supporters who believe in this vision and my ability to deliver. The Mantra Maximus for Maximum Welfare coined by my supporters is gradually gaining space and shall see the light of the day. This is my honest prayer.

Having gone thus far, it is my belief that I have played my part in offering myself to serve the bar as its National Welfare Secretary and the electoral umpire has done its part of finding me worthy. Only two things are now left at this stage. First is for the bar to make a statement on this through their votes on 16th July 2022 being the election day. Second is for God to have the final say.”

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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 26, 2022
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SAFIYA BALARABE LAUDS NBA PORT HARCOURT, ENUGU ON MONTHLY MEETING

GOODWILL MESSAGE FROM SAFIYA BALARABE TO THE PORT HARCOURT BRANCH ON THE OCCASION OF ITS MONTHLY MEETING

Today, the 26th of May, 2022, the Port Harcourt branch of the NBA convenes for its monthly meeting for the Month of May, consequent upon which Safiya Balarabe sends in a goodwill message hereunder reproduced:

“Distinguished Chairman, Executives and Members of the esteemed Port Harcourt Branch, I extend my utmost regards.

As you convoke today for your monthly meeting, may your deliberation be fruitful as they have always been.

Your branch is among the class of NBA branches that stand tall in the dynamics of the profession and Association, this is why we are particular about your continued excellence of which gatherings such as today’s are meant to foster.

On this note, I wish you the best in all that you engage in as a branch.

God bless you”

Signed:
Safiya Balarabe
Treasurer, NBA Women Forum

MONTHLY MEETING OF THE ENUGU BRANCH OF THE NBA: GOODWILL MESSAGE FROM SAFIYA BALARABE.

The Enugu Branch of the NBA shall be holding their Monthly meeting for the month of May tomorrow, 27th May, 2022 and the Treasurer of the NBA Women Forum, Safiya Balarabe has sent ahead of time a goodwill message which reads:

“Greetings to the distinguished Chairman, Executives and Members of the Enugu Branch,

I am delighted to extend my best wishes on the occasion of your May meeting coming up tomorrow.

Meetings like this afford everyone the opportunity to come together to sit and discuss matters arising in the branch and to ventilate ideas for the way forward.

Your branch is amongst the many known to have fruitful deliberations.
As you convene tomorrow, as always, may your discussions be positive and impactful.

God bless you”.

Signed:
Safiya Balarabe
Treasurer, NBA Women Forum

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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 25, 2022
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SAFIYA BALARABE PRAISES NBA EFFURUN BRANCH ON LAW WEEK

Safiya Balarabe has extended to NBA Effurun Branch a message of felicitation on the occasion of its 2022 Annual Law Week tagged, “The Role of the Judiciary in Nation Building” slated for 25th to 27th May, 2022.

The statement reads:

TREASURER NBA WOMEN FORUM, SAFIYA BALARABE FELICITATES THE EFFURUN BRANCH ON ACCOUNT OF THEIR 2022 ANNUAL LAW WEEK CELEBRATION

“The gathering of learned minds is always an assembly of immense resourcefulness.

Permit me, the Chairman, Executives and Branch Members of the Effurun branch to use this medium in extending to your gathering of distinguished learned minds my unalloyed felicitations on the occasion of your 2022 Annual Law with the carefully couched theme: ‘The Role of the Judiciary in Nation Building’.

If anyone asks what the role of the judiciary in Nation building is, it is safe to answer that the judiciary is the keeper of the nation’s sanctity without which same would be in a state of complete disarray. This underscores how important the judiciary is to any nation and this is why we must always seek to protect it. I am convinced that this event will in no small measure open our eyes all the more to the need of protecting the judiciary while it carries out this function.

I wish you a successful event.

Thank you”.

Signed:

Safiya Balarabe
Treasurer, NBA Women Forum

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 24, 2022
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LAW WEEK: TAIDI ACCLAIMS NBA YENAGOA BRANCH

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION YENAGOA BRANCH ON HER 2022 LAW WEEK

I congratulate the Chairman, Executive Committee and Members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Yenagoa Branch on the occasion of her 2022 Law Week.

The theme: ‘Building A Stronger Judiciary ‘ presupposes that we already have a vibrant system of administration of justice which only requires some effort to make it even stronger. Actually, things are not so rosy and it is imperative that we interrogate areas of weakness and appraise areas of strength.

This law week is poised to serve the purpose of assembling the building blocks of the virile and progressive judiciary which we earnestly desire.

I therefore urge all participants to focus on the missing link in our justice administration system and work towards enthroning a truly strong judiciary.

Jonathan Gunu Taidi, Esq.
NBA General Secretary (2018 – 2020)

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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 23, 2022
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EGBE AMOFIN O’ODUA ELECTS OLAGUNJU AS CHAIR

Former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) General Secretary and Chairman of the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission, Chief Isiaka Olagunju SAN has been elected as Chairman of the Governing Council of Egbe Amofin O’odua, the one-time influential lawyers’ regional bloc.

A statement made available to CITY LAWYER reads:

AARE ISIAKA OLAGUNJU SAN, TOYIN BASHORUN SAN, OSO ADETUNJI, OLAYINKA SOKOYA AND OTHERS ELECTED TO PILOT THE AFFAIRS OF EGBE AMOFIN O’ODUA.

History was made today in the city of Ibadan, Oyo State as members of Egbe Amofin converged to elect members of the Governing Council.

Aare ISIAKA OLAGUNJU SAN was elected as the Chairman, MRS. TOYIN BASHORUN SAN as Vice Chairman, Adetunji Oso Esq. as Secretary, Olayinka Sokoya as Publicity Secretary, Rotimi Olorunfemi as Treasurer, Paul Oluwaseyi Akomolafe as Welfare Secretary, Ikujuni Ademola as Asst. Secretary, Moshood Abiola as Auditor. By the Constitution of the Forum, the elected members of the executives are to serve for two years.

In his speech after they were sworn in, Aare Isiaka Olagunju past General Secretary of the NBA promised to set the ball rolling immediately. He assures members that the new leadership of Egbe will bring back eminent members of Egbe who had stayed away from the activities of Egbe Amofin O’odua to rejuvenate the forum.

He however asked that a minute silence be observed in honour of Chief Bamidele Aiku SAN for his vision and passion for Egbe Amofin O’odua before his demise.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 22, 2022
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MAXIMUS UGWUOKE LAUDS 2008 LAW SCHOOL SET ON ANNIVERSARY

Mr. Ikechukwu Maximus Ugwuoke, an aspirant for the position of Welfare Secretary at the 2022 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Elections has congratulated the 2008 Call Set of the Nigerian Law School on their anniversary celebration.

The statement reads:

MAY YOUR STARS CONTINUE TO SHINE

“I congratulate my learned colleagues who were called to the Nigerian Bar with me this day in May 2008 as we celebrate our 15th call to bar anniversary. That eventful journey of destiny which brought us together at the various campuses of the Nigeria Law school from our admission into the law school in 2007 to our call to the bar in May 2008, brought about the most transformation in our lives as ministers in the temple of Justice.

“In the course of my visit to the various branches of the Nigerian Bar Association across the country in the past few months, I have been opportuned to meet and interact with some of us especially those that passed through Abuja Campus of the Nigerian Law school with me.

“I am happy with the level of success and achievements we have so far recorded in our various endeavors within this one and a half decade since we dispersed. Our paths are never closed as we shall continue to meet at the top to celebrate our success and God favours upon our lives.

“May your stars continue to shine as worthy ambassadors of the 2008 call set where ever you are. May God continue to keep you, preserve you, bless you and lift you to greater heights. Bon Anniversarie. “

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 21, 2022
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DOKO, NWOSU, AKPETO, OTHERS DISQUALIFIED, NDUKWU FILES APPEAL

More aspirants have been disqualified by the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) in the run-up to the 2022 NBA National Officers and General Council of the Bar (GCB) Elections.

While there is palpable anxiety within the ranks of the aspirants as most of them are yet to be communicated by the electoral committee on their fate, CITY LAWYER gathered that the ranks of aspirants who have come under the ECNBA hammer has swelled.

Meanwhile, CITY LAWYER can authoritatively confirm that at least one aspirant for the position of NBA First Vice President, three aspirants for the post of NBA Second Vice President and one aspirant for the post of NBA Third Vice President have been barred by the Electoral Committee from contesting the forthcoming elections.

Aside from NBA First Vice President aspirant, Mr. Muhammad Idris Doko who was slammed because “your Seconder being a member of a political party in Nigeria is not qualified like you in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution,” outgoing NBA Ukwa Branch Chairman, Sir. Samuel Nwosu was disqualified from the NBA Second Vice President race because as regards the mode of reckoning post call years, “your Nominator is less than the requisite 15 years post-call. Similarly, there is no evidence that your Seconder paid her Branch Dues for year 2020 and 2022.”

His counterpart in the NBA Second Vice President race, Mr. Anthony Chukwurah came under the ECNBA hammer because “your Nominator is not from the Eastern Zone, he is not qualified like you in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Constitution.”

Another aspirant for the same position, Mr. Finian Ndukwu also fell by the way side. Giving reasons for his disqualification, the electoral committee told Ndukwu that “having failed and/or omitted to complete your nomination form and supply requisite answers for determining your eligibility to contest in the Election, your nomination form is accordingly rejected. Consequently, you are hereby DISQUALIFIED from contesting for the office of 2nd Vice-President in the Election.”

Mr. Promise Besinginwayemi Awolowo Ademi-Akpeto, an aspirant for the position of NBA Third Vice President, suffered a similar fate when the Electoral Committee noted that the Seconder for his nomination “is less than 15 years post-call as required” in view of the above constitutional provisions and particularly the mode of reckoning post call years.

Meanwhile, Ndukwu has activated the appeal process. In an appeal made available to CITY LAWYER and addressed to the Chairperson of the Chairperson of NBA 2022 National Election Appeal Committee, he wrote: “I herein attached the said unfiled pages 4,5 and 6 of my nomination form and pages 10-12 including pages 16-78 of my nominator and that of my seconder, as 2nd Vice President for your perusal and reconsideration in this
appeal for the following grounds….”

Outlining the grounds of his appeal, he wrote: “1. That I completed the up part of page 4 of the said form and never filed the remaining part of page 4,5 & 6 because it was clear and stated that it should be filed by candidate for the position of President, 1st Vice President and General Secretary only.

“2. That in respect to pages 10-12 of the said form, it was not also filed by my nominator because it was clear as it is strictly stated for it to be filed by the Nominator of Candidate for the position of President, 1st Vice President and General Secretary only including Nominator of candidates for the position of Treasurer only in the case of page 12 of the my form.”

In a veiled lampooning of the Electoral Committee, Ndukwu argued “that ECNBA in this information age ought to have given fair hearing by giving me time and notice to supply the said information to the above said pages either by invitation, E-mail, whatsapp or Phone call which is available to them and that of my Nominator, and seconder before disqualifying me.

“I therefore most humbly urge the Appeal Committee to reconsider my nomination in the interest of justice as my nomination form was not rejected but accepted with acknowledgement on the 16th of April, 2022 by the ECNBA at the time of submission.”

Meanwhile, almost all the aspirants told CITY LAWYER that the ECNBA is yet to communicate to them on the outcome of the screening process.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 21, 2022
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ISAAC OGBAH LAUDS NBA IKORODU ON LAW WEEK

Mr. Isaac Omuta Ogbah, the immediate past chairman and the publisher of Erudite Judgement of Supreme Court has congratulated the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikorodu Branch on its 2022 Law Week.

His words: “I wish the NBA Ikorodu Branch’s chairman, members of the executive and the entire members of the branch a successful Law Week celebration.

“The theme for this year’s Law Week is tagged ‘Nation Building: Our Collective Responsibility.’ This theme is topical and met the need of contemporary Nigeria.

“While congratulating the entire members of the Branch, I wish all participants a very successful gathering and journey mercies back to their destinations.

Long Live NBA Ikorodu Branch!

Long Live NBA!!

Long Live Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!”

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 21, 2022
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NBA-SBL KICKS OFF REGISTRATION FOR ANNUAL CONFAB

The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) has commence registration for the 16th Annual International Business Law Conference at www.nbasbl.org.

The conference, themed “Recent Developments in the Business Law Environment”, will hold from Wednesday, 20th to Friday, 22nd July, 2022 at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

A breakdown of the registration rates released by the NBA-SBL 2022 Conference Planning Committee (CPC) shows that young lawyers who are members of SBL will register with N25,000 while non-SBL members will pay N35,000 for registration. For others who are not young lawyers, the cost of registration for SBL members is N50,000 while non-SBL members will register with N65,000.

However, there is a discount for early bird registration. Young lawyers within the SBL who register before 12th June, 2022 will pay a discounted rate of N20,000 while non-members of SBL will pay N30,000 for registration. Similarly, other SBL members who are not young lawyers will pay a registration fee of N45,000 if they take advantage of the early bird registration window, while non-SBL members will register with N60,000.

The early bird registration window closes on 12th June, 2022, according to Theodora Kio-Lawson, Chair, Media, Publicity and Mobilisation Subcommittee of the CPC.

There is also room for virtual participation as the conference will be a hybrid event. The registration rates for online attendees, according to Kio-Lawson, are N10,000 for young lawyers who are SBL members and N15,000 for non-members of SBL. For non-young lawyers, SBL members who want to attend virtually will register with N20,000 while non-members will register with N30,000.

Tickets for the conference closing dinner come at the rate of N10,000 for both SBL members and non-members, Kio-Lawson said.

She added that opportunities are still open for individuals and corporate bodies to sponsor the conference, as well as for exhibitors who want to reserve a booth at the conference venue.

On what exhibitors at the conference stand to benefit, Kio-Lawson said, “The conference, which is a convergence of lawmakers, regulators, multilateral institutions, investors, legal practitioners and the business community, presents a unique opportunity for exhibitors to meet and interact with a wide range of attendees, many of whom are leaders and key decision makers in different sectors of the economy.”

The NBA-SBL Annual Business Law Conference started in 2004. Since then, it has continued to provide a platform for stakeholders in the Nigerian business environment to address the issues that affect the business environment as well as businesses operating within the environment. This year, the conference will explore recent developments in the Nigerian business law environment and how they have shaped or affected business operations in the country. The sub-themes to be addressed at the plenary sessions include “The Petroleum Industry Act – Making it Work”; “AfCTFA – The Prospects for the Nigerian Business Lawyer”; “CAMA 2020: The Journey So Far”; “Tax Administration Strides and the Nigerian Business Environment”; and “ESG and the Nigerian Business Environment”, among others.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 19, 2022
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SAFIYA BALARABE HAILS NBA YENAGOA ON LAW WEEK

2022 LAW WEEK: GOODWILL MESSAGE BY SAFIYA BALARABE, TREASURER NBA WOMEN FORUM TO THE YENAGOA BRANCH OF THE NBA

The Law Week Celebration of Yenagoa Branch of the NBA is billed for 25th to 29th of May, 2022 with the theme: “Building a Stronger Judiciary”.

Safiya Balarabe, the Treasurer of the NBA Women Forum has sent in a goodwill message ahead of the event reproduced as follows:

“The Chairman, Executive and branch members of the great Yenagoa Branch,

It is in anticipation of your 2022 annual Law Week celebration themed ‘Building a Stronger Judiciary’, that I wish to convey my wishes and regards to you.

Being a staunch proponent of total judicial Independence, your Law Week is one I look forward to. I am excited that we will have yet another opportunity to drive home this all important message of judicial independence, which is the most important factor in ensuring a strong judiciary in Nigeria. The judiciary they say is the last hope of the common man, but what hope is there for anyone if it cannot even carry itself?

In the same vein, I also look forward to the paper presentation with the topic: “Nullification of Executive Order 10 and its implication in the quest for Judicial Financial Autonomy”.

I wish you a great Law Week ahead, and may the deliberations therein be put into action for the betterment of your Branch, our noble association and the country at large.

Thank you”.

Signed:

Safiya Balarabe

Treasurer, NBA Women Forum

EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 18, 2022
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MAXIMUS UGWUOKE CONGRATULATES AKPATA ON NUPTIALS

Maximus Ugwuoke Congratulates Olumide Akpata, the President of NBA on his wedding.

Mr. Ikechukwu Maximus Ugwuoke, aspirant for National Welfare Secretary position of NBA and former social Secretary of NBA Enugu Branch has sent a congratulatory message to the the president of the NBA.

In his message Ugwuoke said: ” I join the legal community and the rest of the world to Congratulate you, our dear President, Olumide Akpata on the occasion of your traditional wedding with the love of your life, Osayamon Michelle Ogbebor at the ancient city of Benin today, 14th day of May 2022.

As the Holy Book says “He that findeth a wife, findeth a good thing and obtains favour from the Lord”. This singular event of your marriage taking place towards the end of your NBA presidency tenure is a demonstration of the the fact that God’s favour that made you the number one bar man in the country had continued to sustain you to attain the greater strides and accomplishment you have so far recorded in your office, the climax of which is your tying the marital knots at this point.

May God bless your marriage and continue to sustain it with love, peace, joy and happiness”.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 18, 2022
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ISAAC OGBAH SALUTES NBA IKORODU ON LAW WEEK

Mr. Isaac Omuta Ogbah, the immediate past chairman and the publisher of Erudite Judgement of Supreme Court has congratulated the NBA Ikorodu Branch on its 2022 Law Week between 11th May 2022 and 17th May 2022.

I wish the NBA Ikorodu Branch’s chairman, members of the executive and the entire members of the branch a successful Law Week celebration.

The theme for this year’s Law Week is tagged-” Nation Building: Our Collective Responsibility”. This theme is tropical and met today’s need of contemporary Nigeria.

While congratulating the entire members of the Branch, I wish all participants a very successful gathering and journey mercies back to their destinations.

Long Live NBA Ikorodu Branch!

Long Live NBA!!

Long Live Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 17, 2022
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DEBORAH YAKUBU: ‘RULE OF LAW IN ABEYANCE,’ SAYS TAIDI

A presidential aspirant in the forthcoming Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Elections, Mr. Jonathan Gunu Taidi has decried the absence of rule of law in Nigeria, adding that the security agencies have failed to protect lives and properties.

Speaking as a discussant at the NBA Ikorodu Branch Bar Week, the immediate past NBA General Secretary said the situation “confirms our inability to evolve a workable template that suits our religious and cultural diversity.”

Below is the full text of his remarks.

REMARKS BY PAST GENERAL SECRETARY OF NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION JONATHAN GUNU TAIDI AS DISCUSSANT AT NBA IKORODU 2022 LAW WEEK

Protocol

It is a great honour to be asked to give a few remarks on the occasion of the Ikorodu Law Week. Although this event is an annual event, it is no less critical for the opportunity it provides for national soul searching, improving jurisprudence and elevating the bar and the practice of law in this country.

Everyday seems to bring with it new challenges and even more invidious assault on the constitution and the laws we we pledge to uphold and defend.

The recent gruesome murder and decapitation of Ms Deborah Samuel within the premises of Shehu Shagari College of Education Sokoto is a sad reminder that the rule of law is in abeyance and our security apparatus has failed – assuming there was ever any to speak of. It also confirms our inability to evolve a workable template that suits our religious and cultural diversity.

More disappointing, in a catalogue already filled with disappointments, is the comment by the Nigeria Police that some of the perpetrators of this heinous act were not even Nigerians but foreigners from Niger Republic. This is first an indictment on the Nigerian Immigration Service particularly, and the opportunistic and visionless leaderships which over the years have successfully superintended over failure in every facet of our affairs as an “independent” nation where impunity has become our coat of arms. As I write this the papers are awash with news of the arrest of the nation’s accountant general for allegedly perpetrating an N80 billion fraud.

We have made corruption a byword for governance and abominable violence is the new normal. This attitude of just condemning the vile actions of criminals by our leaders, without any deliberate strategy or action to check the menace, has not and will not redress our regression into anarchy.

It is unacceptable that our security agencies are always caught sleeping on duty. It is time to invest more in intelligence gathering than on weapons especially in the face of scarce resources.

I urge all participants here to fully contribute to the discussions on Nation Building: Our Collective Responsibility. As legal practitioners we must always remember that we are the light of the nation, and we carry the torch of enlightenment and progress.

I hope this particular Law Week helps spearhead a national rebirth that will lead us on the road to a more progressive and prosperous nation.

Thank you and God bless our fatherland.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 17, 2022
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DEBORAH YAKUBU: NBA POSTPONES SPIDEL SOKOTO CONFAB

The Nigerian Bar Association has postponed its NBA Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) Annual Conference earlier scheduled to kick-off this weekend in Sokoto, saying it is “not only for the safety of our conferees and guests, but as a mark of respect for the memory of the slain Miss Deborah Yakubu.”

In a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, the lawyers’ association expressed worry “not just by the chilling news of the murder of Miss Deborah Yakubu, but also by the sudden and sad turn of events and the deteriorating security situation in Sokoto State.”

Continuing, the statement personally signed by NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata, added: “As such, having critically reviewed the current security condition in Sokoto, it has become apparent that we cannot guarantee the safety of our guest speakers, delegates and other stakeholders that have committed to attend the NBA-SPIDEL’s conference which was designed to put the State in the global spotlight for the duration of the conference and beyond. Accordingly, the Executive Committee of NBA-SPIDEL came to the painful decision to request, and I have approved, that the 2022 NBA-SPIDEL Annual Conference be postponed not only for the safety of our conferees and guests, but as a mark of respect for the memory of the slain Miss Deborah Yakubu.

Click here to read the full text.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 15, 2022
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TAIDI HAILS NBA IKORODU ON BAR WEEK

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION IKORODU BRANCH ON HER 2022 BAR WEEK

I felicitate with the Chairman, Executive Council Members and members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikorodu Branch on the occasion of her 2022 Bar Week on the theme: “Nation Building: Our Collective Responsibility.”

Our country attained independence on 1st October, 1960 with the promise of greatness, and universal optimism. Alas, 62 years later, the nation remains embroidered in numerous challenges that at times threaten every hope of its survival.

It is therefore heart warming that NBA Ikorodu Branch is determined to interrogate the issues militating against the growth of our nation and the vital roles we all can play in unraveling the complex issues that have kept us in perpetual motion without movement.

This platform presents another opportunity for us in the legal profession to identify the clogs in the wheel of our development as a nation and come up with workable solutions that will bail us out of stagnation.

I commend you all to utilize this rare opportunity for the benefit of our dear nation which seriously craves growth and development, and hereby wish you all fruitful deliberations and a positive outcome.

Jonathan Gunu Taidi, Esq.

NBA General Secretary (2018 – 2020)

EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 14, 2022
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MAXIMUS UGWUOKE CONGRATULATES AKPATA ON WEDLOCK

Mr. Ikechukwu Maximus Ugwuoke, aspirant for the position of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Welfare Secretary and former NBA Enugu Branch Social Secretary has congratulated NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata on his marriage ceremony held today in Benin City.

The message reads:

” I join the legal community and the rest of the world to Congratulate you, our dear President, Olumide Akpata on the occasion of your traditional wedding with the love of your life, Osayamon Michelle Ogbebor at the ancient city of Benin today, 14th day of May 2022.

“As the Holy Book says “He that findeth a wife, findeth a good thing and obtains favour from the Lord”. This singular event of your marriage taking place towards the end of your NBA presidency tenure is a demonstration of the the fact that God’s favour that made you the number one bar man in the country had continued to sustain you to attain the greater strides and accomplishment you have so far recorded in your office, the climax of which is your tying the marital knots at this point.

“May God bless your marriage and continue to sustain it with love, peace, joy and happiness”.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 14, 2022
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AIKPOKPO, EDUN, RAPULU, AGADA, ANAGOR SET FOR BAR COUNCIL POLL

Several members of the current Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) National Executive Committee will be vying for positions in the forthcoming NBA National Officers and General Council of the Bar Elections slated for July 16, 2022, CITY LAWYER can authoritatively report.

While some of the aspirants have confirmed that they would be vying for the election, impeccable sources told CITY LAWYER that the other officers have also filed nominations for the elections.

There are strong indications that all the aspirants are gunning for positions in the General Council of the Bar.

Impeccable sources told CITY LAWYER that the incumbent National Officers have thrown their hats into the electoral ring are NBA First Vice President, Mr. John Aikpokpo-Martins; Welfare Secretary, Mr. Kunle Edun; Treasurer, Mercy Ajato Agada and Financial Secretary, Mr. Raphael Nnamdi Anagor.

While highly reliable sources told CITY LAWYER that incumbent Publicity Secretary, Dr. Rapulu Nduka had expressed interest in the position, it was unclear at press time whether he was able to beat the deadline for submission of nomination forms.

Section 10 (1) of the NBA Constitution (as amended) provides that “There shall be established an independent body to be known as the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (hereinafter called “the ECNBA”) to conduct elections into National Offices of the Association and election of the representatives of the Association in the General Council of the Bar.”

The ECNBA had issued notices calling for nominations for the election of National Officers and representatives in the General Council of the Bar.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 13, 2022
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NBA ABUJA CRISIS: PETITIONER WANTS GADZAMA, MAIKYAU, OTHERS DISQUALIFIED

An Abuja based lawyer has urged the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) to reject any aspirant whose Letter of Good Standing is endorsed by any of the factional chairmen of NBA Abuja Branch.

If successful, this will sound the death knell for the ambition of two leading presidential aspirants, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN and Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau SAN, paving the way for the emergence of the immediate past NBA General Secretary, Mr. Jonathan Taidi as the next NBA President.

Though undated but addressed to the ECNBA Chairman, Mr. Ayodele Akintunde SAN, the petition was received by the electoral body on May 9, 2022.

In the petition obtained by CITY LAWYER, Mr. Maris Chinye Obichie urged the electoral umpire “to invoke section 10 part 1(6) of the second schedule to the NBA constitution and accordingly reject the candidature of any person who has submitted a letter of good standing from anyone purporting to be chairman of Abuja Branch in respect of a candidate, nominator or seconder for election into national offices and the General Council of the Bar in the 2022 election.”

Arguing that there is a precedent to this effect, the petitioner stated that “the position of NEC on the issue is that none of the factions of Abuja Branch be recognized until the issues are resolved and reconciled,” adding that “Pursuant to this position, ECNBA had in 2018 already set the precedent by disqualifying candidates from Abuja Branch as no valid letter of good standing was issued from Abuja Branch.”

Obichie contended that a Letter of Good Standing from the branch of a candidate, nominator and seconder “is a condition precedent to a valid nomination,” adding that “From the minutes of the NBA National Executive Council (NEC) held on 15th December, 2020; 18th March, 2021; 24th June 2021; 30th September 2021; 2nd November, 2021 and 16th December, 2021 there is (sic) no Chairman for Abuja Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association.”

If the petition succeeds, it would lead to a gale of disqualification of aspirants. Aside from the two leading presidential aspirants from Abuja, there are aspirants for other positions including the General Council of the Bar, NBA Second Vice President, Publicity Secretary, Assistant Publicity Secretary and Assistant General Secretary.

Aspirants from branches other than Abuja who may have sourced their nominators or seconders from the branch would also be affected by the decision.

The decision of the electoral umpire is awaited on the petition.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 13, 2022
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NBA ELECTIONS: KAYODE BELLO ASKS ECNBA TO DISQUALIFY FELIX ASHIMOLE

Embattled Bar aspirant, Mr. Kayode Bello has written a petition to the Electoral Committee of the NBA urging it to disqualify Mr. Felix Ashimole (aka Che Oyinatumba) from contesting the forthcoming NBA Elections.

In a petition addressed to the ECNBA Secretary and copied to CITY LAWYER, the petitioner alleged that the NBA Publicity Secretary aspirant “has violated the above section of the NBA Constitution,” in reference to Section 9 (4) (b) of the NBA 2021 Constitution (as amended).

Titled “Petition to disqualify Mr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Ashimole as NBA aspirant/candidate in the forthcoming NBA election,” the petition was sent to the electoral committee via electronic mail.

He recalled the grounds for disqualification from holding any National Office, adding that a member “shall not be qualified to hold any national office in the Association if during election campaigns: (b) He/she sponsors or is associated with sponsoring a Newspaper or Magazine article or any electronic broadcast, vilifying other candidates or extolling a candidate’s virtues.”

Giving the particulars of alleged breaches by the aspirant, Bello stated that “Mr. Felix Chukwuma Ashimole operates uses and operates WhatsApp group and a website (www.kubwaexpress.com) as electronic broadcast media to promote the candidacy of Mr. Y. C. Maikyau, an NBA Presidential Aspirant/candidate, whom I have petitioned against, during these 2022 NBA elections/election processes.”

Continuing, he alleged that “Mr. Felix Chukwuma has also belittled other candidate(s) in his electronic broadcast.

“Hence, it is hereby prayed that the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association should disqualify Mr. Felix Chukwuma from holding any national office in the Association for such constitutional infractions.

“Kindly find attached screenshots of infractions by Mr. Felix Chukwuma.”

Asked whether the electoral committee had communicated him on the petition, Ashimole queried: “Why should they? A petition by a non-lawyer!”

The petition was copied to “Mr. Gadzama, NBA Presidential Aspirant;” “Mr. Laidi, NBA presidential Aspirant;” the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee (LPPC), the United States Embassy and the United Nations Human Rights Council.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 12, 2022
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‘FASHION WAYS TO THRIVE IN VOLATILE ENVIRONMENT,’ TAIDI URGES NBA JALINGO BRANCH

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION JALINGO BRANCH ON HER 2022 LAW WEEK

I felicitate with the Chairman and Members of the Nigerian Bar Association Jalingo Branch on the occasion of her 2022 Law Week.

The theme: “Legal Practice In A Volatile Democracy: The Nigerian Experience” provides opportunity for a thorough x-ray of our practice over the years especially in the midst of insecurity, economic strangulation and rampant maladministration of justice.

The law week therefore becomes a platform to direct and reflect on the impediments to legal practice with a view to fine tuning strategies that will help us better cope with the existing quagmire.

I urge distinguished colleagues to participate fully in the discussions at this epoch gathering and come up with practical and enduring solutions on how legal practice can thrive in such a volatile environment as ours.

Wishing you all a fruitful and memorable law week.

Jonathan Gunu Taidi, Esq.
NBA General Secretary (2018 – 2020)

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 10, 2022
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SAFIYA BALARABE REJOICES WITH NBA IKOT EKPENE ON BAR WEEK

GOODWILL MESSAGE BY SAFIYA BALARABE, TREASURER, NBA WOMEN FORUM TO NBA IKOT EKPENE BRANCH ON THE OCCASION OF THE 2022 BAR WEEK

“Strengthening the Pillars of Democracy Through Effective Legislation” is the theme of this year’s Bar Week of the Ikot Ekpene Branch of the Nigerian Bar Assocaition. The 5-day long event takes place between 8th May to 12th May, 2022.

Mrs. Safiya Balarabe’s goodwill message to the Branch Executives and members reads:

“The Chairman, Executive and Members of the Ikot Ekpene branch,

Permit me to use this medium to convey my thoughts and good wishes on the occasion of your Annual Bar Week themed:

‘Strengthening the Pillars of Democracy Through Effective Legislation’

The law week gives ample opportunity for everyone to bring forward positive ideas to promote the cause of your branch, our association and the Country at large.

This year’s theme is apposite in view of the happenings in our dear country. We know very well that one of the pillars of true democracy is effective legislation, which bring to fore good laws to progressively govern our nation, improve our economy, strengthen the security sector amongst other developmental strides.

The events of this year’s Bar Week are power packed to ensure topnotch delivery.

I have no doubt that success will be recorded.

Thank you and God bless”.

Signed:
Safiya Balarabe
Treasurer, NBA Women Forum

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 10, 2022
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AMANDA ASAGBA APPLAUDS NBA IKORODU ON LAW WEEK

I warmly congratulate the Chairman NBA Ikorodu Branch and his Exco and Planning Committee Chair and members on the occasion of their Law week scheduled to hold from May 11, 2022 – May 17th 2022.

The theme of this law week: Nation Building: Our Collective Responsibility is apposite and in season at this time in our National search for peace and security. I trust that the array of seasoned resource persons will dissect appropriately, thus illuminating and transforming the society.

I urge the Bar to be more vibrant and proactive to save the Nation.

I wish you a very successful event.

Amanda Asagba, FICMC

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 09, 2022
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TAIDI HAILS LAGOS, IKEJA BRANCHES ON MONTHLY MEETINGS

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO NBA LAGOS BRANCH ON HER MONTHLY GENERAL MEETING

I felicitate with the Chairman, Executive Committee, and the entire members of the Nigerian Bar Association Lagos Branch on the occasion of her monthly meeting holding today 9th May, 2022.

I particularly commend the sustenance of the knowledge sharing session tailored towards equipping, as well as sharpening, the knowledge base of members. Equally commendable is the hybrid nature of the event which tend to accommodate all members.

I wish you all a very interactive and fruitful deliberations.

Jonathan Gunu Taidi, Esq.

NBA General Secretary (2018 – 2020)

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO NBA IKEJA BRANCH ON HER MONTHLY GENERAL MEETING

I felicitate with the Chairman, Executive Committee and the entire members of Nigerian Bar Association Ikeja Branch on the occasion of her monthly meeting holding today 9th May, 2022.

I particularly commend the idea of a health check aimed at sustaining the physical and mental well-being for its hard working, dogged, resellient and focused members.

As you deliberate on the challenges bedevelling the legal profession particularly and the nation at large I wish you all a very interactive and fruitful deliberations.

Jonathan Gunu Taidi, Esq.

NBA General Secretary (2018 – 2020)

EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 09, 2022
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SAFIYA BALARABE SALUTES NBA LAGOS ON MONTHLY MEET

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch will today hold its monthly meeting by 1pm at the Dinner Hall of the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The meeting has in its agenda a Knowledge Sharing Session with the topic: ‘Mediation Advocacy: A Lawyers’ Secret Code’ to be delivered by Mr Fola Alade, Principal Partner, Fotefa Partners LLP (Mediators and Mediation Advocates.

In felicitating with the Executive Committee and members of the branch, Safiya Balarabe wrote in her goodwill message:

“The Chairman, executive and members of the great Premier bar,

It is with great pleasure that I write you on the occasion of your monthly meeting.

Your branch has always stood as one of the pillars of our great and noble Association; using every opportunity to discuss innovative ideas to advance your cause, the Association, the judiciary and the nation at large.

I am very certain that this month’s meeting is super packed with useful deliberations and to this end, I wish you fruitful deliberations.

Keep up the good work.

God bless you” Continue Reading

EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 06, 2022
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ISAAC OGBAH STORMS NBA IJEBU-ODE BRANCH

The immediate past Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ota Branch and Editor-in-Chief of EJSC, Mr. Isaac Omuta Ogbah has visited NBA Ijebu-Ode Branch to felicitate with the executives and members.

He thanked the Branch Chairman, Mr. Bisi Abdulazeez and the entire leadership and members of the Branch for the open arms and hands of fellowship extended to him during his visit on 5th May, 2022.

Ogbah praised the branch for taking the lead in Ogun State and in Nigeria as a whole in producing great and erudite legal luminaries.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 06, 2022
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SAFIYA BALARABE HAILS NBA ABA YOUNG LAWYERS ON SUMMIT

The Nigerian Bar Association Young Lawyers’ Forum, Aba Branch kicks off its 2022 Summit with the theme: ‘Building a Successful Legal Career and Expanding Legal Minds: Prospects for Young Lawyers’. The summit is a two-day programme commencing today, 6th May, 2022 to climax tomorrow, 7th May, 2022.

Mrs. Safiya Balarabe has commended the young lawyers on the forthcomingevent.

She wrote:

“My dear young lawyers of Aba branch, the future leaders of our great and noble Association, I am very proud that you understand the task of leading our great bar in the near future and are constantly preparing yourselves for this all important responsibility.

“This year’s theme is apt as it captures two of the very important tools needed for the leadership of our association: successful legal career and expanded legal minds.

“Your branch has always been one to reckon with in delivering topnotch and empowering programs. I am confident that this summit will be a resounding one and you’ll be very equipped for greater heights.

“I wish you a successful summit.

“Well done and keep up the good work.

“God bless you all”

Signed:

Safiya Balarabe,

Treasurer, NBA Women Forum

EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 05, 2022
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FUNMI ADEOGUN BATTLES POLICE ZONAL COMMAND OVER BATTERED LAWYER

The Vice Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Epe Branch and Treasurer of NBA Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) Funmi Adeogun is leading the battle for justice for a lawyer allegedly battered in the course of his work.

The victim, Mr. Friday Osiziate Akpeji, a member of the branch was said to have been battered on his way to the Meiran Police Station on 15th June, 2021.

Following the transfer of the case to Zone 2 of the Nigeria Police Force based on a petition by NBA Epe Human Rights Committee, the committee led by Adeogun finally compelled the issuance of the long-awaited O/C Legal Zone 2 Advice last Wednesday which directed that both the lawyer-victim and the suspect be charged to court for affray. The committee has faulted the Legal Advice and observed that the Police officers involved in the matter were never invited for interrogation.

This has led the fiery Human Rights Committee Chairman to insist that justice must be done in the matter, adding that she would not relent until the main culprits including one Saidi Aremo (aka Gucci) Mr. Monsuru (a.k.a Organizing), Supol Bola and Inspector Olabode both attached to the Meiran Police Station are brought to justice for alleged kidnapping, conspiracy, aiding and abetting crime, threat to life, assault, use of police to disrupt peaceful state setting, economic loss, act likely to cause breach of peace, and illegal police action.

It is recalled that sometime in May 2021, in the course of his duties as a lawyer, Akpeji submitted a petition on threat to life by an alleged dreaded cultist, armed robber, drugs dealer and kidnapper on behalf of his clients, Mr. Andre Patrick Ubi and Mr. Nwachukwu Chikwado. On his way to the Meiran Police Station, the suspect and his accomplices allegedly attacked him at Ile-Iwe, Meiran.

They allegedly took the victim to an uncompleted building on the same street, beat him mercilessly, threatened to kill him, kept him in their custody from 9:00 am till 5:00 pm, and demanded for a ransom of N4.5 million (Four Million Five Hundred Thousand Naira).

Akpeji was put under intense pressure in the suspects’ den and was forced to call his in-law who paid #10,000 (Ten thousand naira) while his brother subsequently paid N50,000.00 (Fifty thousand naira) to the suspects to secure his release from captivity.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 05, 2022
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SAFIYA BALARABE THUMBS UP NBA KEFFI, EFFURUN YLF, LAW OFFICERS

Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) NBA Women Forum Treasurer, Safiya Balarabe has felicitated with NBA Keffi Branch on its monthly meeting holding today. The aspirant to the post of NBA Treasurer also commended NBA Effurun Young Lawyers’ Forum on its forthcoming Summit holding tomorrow with the theme, “Young & Brave: Taking the lead for a better legal society.”

Meanwhile, the aspirant has expressed solidarity with the Law Officers Association of Nigeria (“LOAN”) on its suit against the Minister of Labour and Productivity & 3 Ors seeking to enforce its rights to be registered as a trade union.

Below are the goodwill messages.

KEFFI BRANCH MONTHLY MEETING: GOODWILL MESSAGE BY SAFIYA BALARABE, TREASURER, NBA WOMEN FORUM

“Warm regards to the Chairman, executive and branch members of the NBA, Keffi branch.

“As you hold your monthly meeting today, permit me to use this medium to express my unreserved delight in your dealings as a branch. You have consistently taken steps towards entrenching in our Association the required verve and zeal in protecting her members as well as guarding the nation’s democracy.

“Your branch is built on strong and abiding principles of integrity and purposefulness and I am in no doubt that today’s meeting will in no small measure further reinforce the bars of these pillars.

“I wish you fruitful deliberation.”

Signed:
Safiya Balarabe
Treasurer, NBA Women Forum

GOODWILL MESSAGE BY TREASURER, NBA WOMEN FORUM, SAFIYA BALARABE TO THE YOUNG LAWYERS’ FORUM, EFFURUN BRANCH ON THE OCCASION OF THEIR 2022 SUMMIT

“It always refreshes my mind and strengthens my confidence in the future of our great Association when I see young lawyers coming together to organize compact, thought provoking programs.

“It is on this note that I commend the YLF Executives and members of the Effurun branch on their upcoming Summit tagged “Young & Brave: Taking the lead for a better legal society”. Themes of this nature are the backbone of the reassurance and confidence expressed above; to the effect that same resonate a resolve and a desire to take the mantle of leadership and take the Association to greater heights. It begins now, and this set of young lawyers are already in the forefront!

“It is my utmost desire that this Summit achieves all it aims.

“Thank you and God bless.”

Signed
Safiya Balarabe
Treasurer, NBA Women Forum

LAW OFFICERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (LOAN) V. MINISTER OF LABOUR AND PRODUCTIVITY & 3 ORS: SAFIYA BALARABE EXPRESSES SOLIDARITY WITH LOAN

“I wish to express my solidarity with the Law Officers Association of Nigeria (“LOAN”) on its suit against the Hon. Ministry of Labour and Productivity and 3 Ors., seeking to enforce its rights to be registered as a Trade Union in Nigeria.

“LOAN is within its rights in seeking to be registered under the relevant laws and I am confident that the court will give full force to this right. I am aware that the matter came in court today wherein LOAN’s application for leave to amend its processes was granted and the case adjourned to 15/6/22. I shall remain in close observance of the suit as it progresses.

“God bless LOAN, God bless the NBA and God bless Nigeria.”

Signed:
Safiya Balarabe
Treasurer, NBA Women Forum

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
May 01, 2022
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NBA, TAIDI, ABONYI, UGWUOKE CELEBRATE WORKERS’ DAY

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and several Bar Leaders including the immediate past NBA General Secretary, Mr. Jonathan Taidi have hailed Nigerian workers on the occasion of International Workers’ Day.

In separate messages to herald the workers’ anniversary, the Bar Leaders applauded the industry of Nigerian workers, urging them not to relent in boosting national productivity and fostering national cohesion.

Below are the statements.

WORKERS DAY 2022: NBA CELEBRATES NIGERIAN WORKERS

The wealth, growth and progress of any Nation, institution or establishment rests on the labour force. The International Workers day provides an opportunity to appreciate members of this “growth propelling force” for their immense contributions. It is also an opportune moment of introspection to reflect on the timeless values of hard work, the dignity of labour; and the need for adequate attention to be paid to the rights and welfare of our workers by the government and all relevant stakeholders.

On the occasion of this year’s International Workers day celebration, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mr. Olumide Akpata, on behalf of the Association celebrates the Nigerian Labour force, as well as workers all over the world. The NBA calls on the government to make more deliberate interventions to ensure the elevation of the status of the average worker, by addressing all labour-related issues that have altogether negatively impacted our national growth and productivity.

Happy Workers’ Day

Dr. Rapulu Nduka
Publicity Secretary,
Nigerian Bar Association

‘GIVE MORE ATTENTION TO WORKERS’ WELFARE, WORK ENVIRONMENT’ – TAIDI

Nigerian workers have joined others around the world to mark Labour Day in recognition of the vital role workers play in nation building, a day which symbolises the dignity of labour, and the struggles of workers and their pride in their work.

I felicitate with our distinguished colleagues on this occasion and hope that greater attention is given to the welfare, well-being and the work environment by government and employers of labour – which will in no small measure guarantee efficiency.

In particular, those in authority should use this occasion to resolve the needless industrial action by various labour unions that have stagnated various vital sectors. Indeed, there is no alternative to ensuring the provision of work tools, bonafide entitlements, welfare needs and general well-being of workers by whatever name called.

Aluta continua!!!
JONATHAN GUNU TAIDI, ESQ.

YOUR LABOURS SHALL NOT BE IN VAIN, SAYS GERALD ABONYI

Today is the beginning of a New Month.

It is a day set aside to celebrate the indefatigability and resourcefulness of workers
all over the world.

Congratulations to Nigeria workers.

Your labours shall not be in vain.

Happy Worker’s Day. Happy New Month.

DR. GERALD ABONYI

‘LAWYERS ARE EXTRAORDINARY BREED OF WORKERS’ – MAXIMUS UGWUOKE

I wish to extend my heartfelt greeting to all workers in Nigeria particularly Nigerian Lawyers. Lawyers in Nigeria are special breed carved out as ministers in the temple of Justice.

Elbert Hubbard, American writer (1856-1915) once said “One machine can do the work of fifty ordinary men. No machine can do the work of one extraordinary man”. To this I add that the members of the Nigeria bar are extraordinary gentlemen and no machine can do the works they do in their practice areas.

In their daily strives to meet the demands of the profession, I urge them to be conscious of their health and the stress associated with their works. The health and happiness of all Nigerian lawyers are topnotch in the Hakuna Matata regime of the NBA of my dream and this is encapsulated in the trending mantra and slogan ‘ Maximus for Maximum Welfare’ which I stand for.

Welcome to the month of May and happy workers’ day.

IKECHUKWU MAXIMUS UGWUOKE ESQ
(aka. Hakuna Matata)
Former Social Secretary, NBA Enugu Branch

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Apr 25, 2022
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NBA-SPIDEL: EARLY BIRD WINDOW FOR SOKOTO CONFAB ENDS SOON

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has urged lawyers and the general public to ensure that they use the Early Bird window to register for the eagerly awaited NBA Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL) Annual Conference.

In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Dr. Rapulu Nduka, the NBA stated that lawyers are “specially invited to participate” in the NBA-SPIDEL Annual Conference scheduled to hold in Sokoto, urging prospective participants to “Kindly register through this link https://nbaspidel.ng/nba-spidel-conference-2022/.”

The notice observed that Early Bird registration will end on the May 2, 2022, adding: “Be assured that the topics of discourse, array of speakers, and secured serene environment will make this year’s NBA-SPIDEL conference an exciting one.”

Meanwhile, many lawyers who have registered for the conference have taken to their social media handles to excitedly announce their participation.

Below is the full text of the NBA statement.

2022 NBA SECTION ON PUBLIC INTEREST AND DEVELOPMENT LAW ANNUAL CONFERENCE: INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE

Dear Colleagues,

You are specially invited to participate in the Annual Conference of the Section on Public Interest and Development Law of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA-SPIDEL), which will take place from the 22nd -26th May 2022 at the Sokoto Conference Centre, Sokoto, Sokoto State. The theme of the conference is “Rule of Law and Democratic Evolution in Nigeria.”

Kindly register through this link https://nbaspidel.ng/nba-spidel-conference-2022/

Kindly note that early bird registration will end on the 2nd day of May 2022.

For more information on the various sub-topics for discourse, array of speakers, list of topclass hotels at discounted rates, tourist attractions, membership information etc., kindly visit www.nbaspidel.ng

Be assured that the topics of discourse, array of speakers, and secured serene environment will make this year’s NBA-SPIDEL conference an exciting one.

Dr. Rapulu Nduka
Publicity Secretary,
Nigerian Bar Association

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Apr 19, 2022
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NBA, ASF FRANCE OFFER FREE LEGAL SERVICES TO 120 VICTIMS

Avocats Sans Frontières France (ASF France) and the Nigerian Bar Association have provided free legal services to 120 victims of human rights violations relating to torture, arbitrary detention and extra-judicial killings.

This was disclosed during a meeting organized by ASF FRANCE under the European Union and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) funded, “Strengthening the National Actors Capacities and Advocation for Ending Severe Human Rights Violations in Nigeria project” (SAFE) project. The project is targeted at addressing human rights violations in relation to torture, extra-judicial killings and arbitrary detention.

The one-day legal aid coordination meeting is the third Legal Aid Coordination Meeting organized in collaboration with NBA to foster ASF France mandate of promoting the enjoyment of human rights in Nigeria. It provided an opportunity for the project support lawyers to provide updates on the status of legal aid delivery in their respective states as regards the third year of the project. It also provided the opportunity for them to share experiences and exchange learning based on the cases being handled. The cases bother on provision of free legal assistance on the SAFE project to victims of torture and family members of victims of extra-judicial killings and arbitrary detentions.

The Country Director of ASF France, Angela Uwandu Uzoma-Iwuchukwu highlighted the importance of the engagement, saying “the legal aid coordination meeting is a very important avenue for us to re-evaluate our pro-bono legal aid processes and learn from each other towards improving the effectiveness of the legal aid component of the SAFE project”.

According to a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, the support lawyers delivered presentations on legal aid delivery under the SAFE project while recommendations were made to tackle the challenges highlighted by the support lawyers during their presentations.

The forum rounded off with deliberations aimed at improving results of the legal aid delivery component of the project. During the deliberations, Aïssatou Kumagangue, Project Officer at the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) commended the support lawyers, saying: “I am immensely proud of the pro-bono legal aid delivery of this project. Thank you for the silent but impactful work of you lawyers; please keep it up”. Esmé Stuart, Programme Manager, Human Rights and Gender, European Union (EU) also highlighted the importance of the legal aid component of the project, saying: “The legal aid component of this project helps to consolidate the outcomes of the entire project; we have to keep up the good work to ensure that we bring justice to where it is underserved.”

The SAFE project is implemented by Avocats Sans Frontières France in partnership with the Nigerian Bar Association and the Carmelite Prisoners’ Interest Organization. ASF France aims to sustain the impact of the Situation Room by virtually convening more frequently to monitor and review the implementation of the adopted strategies.

In attendance at the meeting were the SAFE project support lawyers, nominated NBA pro-bono lawyers, the NBA SAFE project focal person, and representative of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Apr 13, 2022
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NBA DISOWNS ‘LAWYER’ OVER FAKE STAMP, VOWS PROSECUTION

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has said that it never issued any stamp to one Aroyewun Adeleke Sulaimon.

Noting that the suspected fake stamp bearing the name of one Mr. Aroyewun Adeleke Sulaimon embossed on a title document is “in breach of the extant laws regulating the practice of law in Nigeria,” the NBA stated that “Preliminary investigations reveal that the stamp affixed to the title document was not issued by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), neither has the NBA issued any stamp to any Mr. Aroyewun Adeleke Sulaimon.”

Below is the full text of the statement signed by NBA Publicity Secretary, Dr. Rapulu Nduka.

USE OF FAKE NBA STAMPS IN THE NAME OF ONE MR. AROYEWUN ADELEKE SULAIMON: A DISCLAIMER

The attention of the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (“NBA”) has been drawn to a suspected fake stamp bearing the name of one Mr. Aroyewun Adeleke Sulaimon embossed on a title document in breach of the extant laws regulating the practice of law in Nigeria.

Preliminary investigations reveal that the stamp affixed to the title document was not issued by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), neither has the NBA issued any stamp to any Mr. Aroyewun Adeleke Sulaimon.

Consequently, the NBA will make a formal report to the Nigerian Police, in order to unravel the individuals behind these offending acts and to bring them to book.

The NBA reiterates that it will continue to take every step to ensure that the Legal Profession is not brought to disrepute, and will take appropriate steps to close in on fake lawyers and those who produce and/or make use of fake NBA Stamps.

The NBA also appeals to all lawyers to kindly bring to its attention any such infraction(s) in order for the appropriate steps to be taken.

Dr. Rapulu Nduka
Publicity Secretary,
Nigerian Bar Association

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Apr 12, 2022
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NBA-ICLE 10-DAY LAW OFFICE MANAGEMENT TRAINING CONTINUES TODAY

The Nigerian Bar Association Institute of Continuing Legal Education (NBA- ICLE) will today hold another instalment of its scheduled 10-day “LAW OFFICE MANAGEMENT TRAINING FOR LAWYERS.” The time is 2 pm to 3 pm.

According to a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, the topic for today’s training is “Why a Law Firm Needs a Strategy.” The speaker is Sylvia Nzekwu, a human resource management expert and Principal Consultant of SHAN Consulting Limited while the Moderator is Mr. Tobenna Erojikwe, NBA-ICLE Chairman and Partner at The Law Crest LLP.

Nzekwu has extensive experience in Professional Services Consulting, Administration, Human Resources Management and Trade Development/Regional Integration. She specialised in working with law firms to infuse best practices into the legal services sector. A dynamic Speaker, Organisational Retreat Facilitator, Trainer and Moderator skilled in employing clarity and innovation to deliver effectively to diverse audiences at all organisational levels, Nzekwu has strong interpersonal skills capable of resolving multiple (human resources, operational, business development) issues. She is reputed as having a “high level of professionalism and integrity as well as strong Project Management and organisational skills.”

To register, click on https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tkXyr35oQjKsw6M0gsR93Q. According to the organisers, “The training is free and 1 CPD Hour will be allocated to members who attend the training.”

An earlier statement by NBA Publicity Secretary, Dr. Rapulu Nduka noted as follows: “Recall that as part of its drive to promote continuing professional development, build capacity amongst its members and expand the practice areas of Nigerian lawyers, the current leadership of the NBA through the Institute of Continuing Legal Education (NBA- ICLE) has been organizing a series of free capacity-building programmes for the benefit of members of the Association.

“In line with the above, kindly be informed that from the 31st day of March 2022, the NBA-ICLE will be organizing a 10 – day Law Office Management Training for Lawyers. The training will take place on the following days: 31st of March 2022; 7th, 12th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 26th and 28th of April 2022; and the 3rd and 5th of May 2022.

“To participate in the programme, members are advised to register with this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tkXyr35oQjKsw6M0gsR93Q.

“An email confirming successful registration will be sent upon completion of registration.

“This training is free and all members, regardless of their branch, are encouraged to register and attend.”

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Apr 12, 2022
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‘LUCIUS NWOSU LEFT INDELIBLE FOOTPRINTS,’ SAYS GADZAMA

The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC), Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has condoled the spouse of Mr. Lucius Nwosu SAN over the death of the foremost oil and gas lawyer.

In a statement made available to CITY LAWYER and titled “CONDOLENCE MESSAGE ON THE DEMISE OF YOUR BELOVED HUSBAND – LATE CHIEF LUCIUS E. NWOSU, SAN,” Gadzama said he sympathized with the spouse, Dr. Chinelo Nwosu “on the glorious home-call of your beloved husband, Chief Lucius E. Nwosu, SAN.”

Continuing, he wrote: “It was with great shock that I learnt of the sad demise of your beloved husband and patriarch of the Nwosu family, who passed on peacefully as one of the best stock of Legal Practitioners that Nigeria and the good people of Imo State has ever known.

“Chief Lucius E. Nwosu, SAN left indelible footprints in the sands of time. He left a big shoe to fill by his successor. He was a great achiever and a man who lived a purpose driven life. His strides of accomplishments in the Nigerian Courts were peculiar to him alone. He was a beacon of light amongst his peers. He will be greatly missed.

“It is my prayer that God Almighty in his infinite mercy grants you and your entire family the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss of the strong pillar of your family. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. May his gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace with the Lord.

“Kindly accept the warm assurances of my esteemed regards.”

The condolence letter was copied to Mr. Prince Nyekwere, Chairman of NBA Port Harcourt Branch.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Apr 12, 2022
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NBA ELECTION: GADZAMA PICKS FORM AMID BAR LEADERS, YLF, FIDA OFFICERS

Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has laid to rest any speculations on his quest for the presidency of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), having picked up yesterday the form to contest the forthcoming election.

Accompanied by Bar Leaders and some officers of the Young Lawyers Forum (YLF) and International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Gadzama was at the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA) secretariat at Trade & Convention Centre, Abuja to pick up the Nomination Form for the National Officers Election scheduled for July 16, 2022.

According to a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, “The support groups which accompanied the renowned Bar Patriot, J-K Gadzama, SAN had in representation several colleagues, friends, families and supporters from different NBA branches within and outside the Federal Capital Territory, International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Young Lawyers Forum as well as members of staff from the firm, J-K Gadzama LLP. The astute and active member of the Bar and his supporters received a warm welcome at the Secretariat after which the form was officially handed to him.

“Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN while thanking his colleagues, friends and supporters for coming out in their numbers to jointly support his efforts in advancing the Bar and Legal Profession, promised to continue in earnest service to the course of the Nigerian Bar. The Learned Silk who had ceaselessly been in the news was appointed Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association – Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC) by the current President of the NBA, Olumide Akpata. The Committee had been credited by many members of the NBA for the achievements they recorded within a short time from inauguration and their tactfulness and quick-witted response in tackling issues of harassment of legal practitioners by security agencies.”

Some of the supporters who accompanied the leading litigator to the ECNBA office were Mela Audu Nunghe, SAN (former Chairman NBA Abuja Branch (Unity Bar); Mohammed Monguno, Esq. MCIArb. (Former Attorney-General of Borno State); Chukwudi Prince Oli, Esq (Director-General, Vox Populi Foundation for Leadership); Chukwuemeka Clement, Esq. (Immediate Past Chairman, NBA-Bwari Branch); Dr. Kayode Ajulo, Esq.; Nachamandan Shaltha, Esq. (Past Secretary, FIDA Abuja Branch and Publicity Secretary of FIDA); Moses Gana, Esq.; Darlington Onyekwere, Esq.; Madu Joe-Kyari Gadzama, Esq.; Jerry Ombugadu Musa, Esq.; Mark Chidi Agbo, Esq.; David Bege, Esq (Chairman, NBA-YLF Abuja (Unity Bar); Oluwatosin Emmanuel, Esq (Publicity Secretary, NBA-YLF Abuja branch, Unity Bar); Lamar Joe-Kyari Gadzama (Chairman, Young Lawyers’ Group of J-K Gadzama LLP); Olasunkanmi E. Oluwabiyi, Esq.; Hajara Sorondinki, Esq. (Secretary, Women’s Group of J-K Gadzama LLP); Hilary Ojeke, Esq.; Farida Ipimisho, Esq. and Cynthia Igwedibia, Esq.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Apr 09, 2022
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‘WHY NBA ABUJA BRANCH CRISIS PERSISTS,’ BY TAIDI

Former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) General Secretary, Mr. Jonathan Gunu Taidi has identified quest for relevance by some Senior Advocates of Nigeria as the reason for the continued crisis in NBA Abuja Branch.

Speaking on the theme, “Projecting the Future” at the NBA Makurdi Branch Young Lawyers Forum (YLF) Summit, Taidi revealed that while he had the mandate of then NBA leadership to bring peace to the troubled branch, “regrettably some of the senior members of the Inner Bar hijacked the process and thus frustrated our mandate.”

According to Taidi, who is believed to be eyeing the NBA Presidency in the forthcoming National Officers Election, “It is unhealthy to see some senior members of the Inner Bar competing for relevance with the leadership of the Bar. Those efforts are required in the areas of mentorship of our young colleagues who are now in their huge numbers. Indeed, the President of the Bar is president of all whether from the Inner or Outer Bar and there is no room for power or relevance tussle with him.”

Below is the full text of his remarks.

REMARKS AT NBA MAKURDI BRANCH YOUNG LAWYERS FORUM SUMMIT ON THE THEME: “PROJECTING THE FUTURE” HELD ON 8TH APRIL, 2022

I am grateful to the Planning Committee for inviting me to chair the session on “Widening Window on Medical Law Practice in Nigeria” and glad that we have on the panel Dr. Ushakuma Anenger who is the Chairman of Association of Resident Doctors in Benue State and our colleague Cleopatra Atsor.

Permit me to congratulate the Chairman and Members of YLF of this branch who have taken this bold initiative of exploring the means through which we can finally widen the opportunities in medical practice for legal practitioners. For me, such an initiative coming from this branch is a wake-up call to other YLF branches yet to catch up with the need to stem the tide of migratory practice that has overburdened our urban branches. I will in particular commend this kind of programme to my home branch, bearing in mind the hydro-electric industry for which Niger State is well known with a view to exploring opportunities in Energy Law practice.

One of the reasons programmes like this are springing up is because of the enabling environment provided for branches of our association by the leadership of President Olumide Akpata. I am proud that he is one of us at the Outer Bar who has performed beyond our expectations.

Under his leadership, our branches are experiencing zero crisis. Of course, the lingering situation in Dutse and Abuja branches were legacy matters that were inherited. While the situation is under control in Dutse Branch, that of Abuja persists largely due to the needless interference of some senior members of the Inner Bar who instigated the crises in the first place.

I chaired a team as General Secretary sometime in the first quarter of 2020 with the sole mandate of conducting unified election for the branch, but regrettably some of the senior members of the Inner Bar hijacked the process and thus frustrated our mandate.

It is unhealthy to see some senior members of the Inner Bar competing for relevance with the leadership of the Bar. Those efforts are required in the areas of mentorship of our young colleagues who are now in their huge numbers. Indeed, the President of the Bar is president of all whether from the Inner or Outer Bar and there is no room for power or relevance tussle with him. I again commend the doggedness of Mr. Akpata who has no rank baggage which would have impeded his ability to confront the issues that have arisen under his leadership.

I am a little ashamed that other professional associations such as the Nigerian Medical Association, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and Nigerian Society of Engineers have long moved away from the teething issues that we continue to grapple with in the legal profession.

On this note, it is my honor to invite Prof. Agbo J. Madaki to speak to his 19-page presentation which has been circulated.

I wish us an engaging and informative session.

Jonathan Gunu Taidi, Esq.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Mar 31, 2022
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CJN, AKPATA AGREE ON JUSTICE SECTOR REFORM C’TE

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Tanko Muhammad and the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mr. Olumide Akpata have agreed to set up a five-member committee “to work out the modalities for the implementation of the Justice Sector recommendation.” This was a fallout of the courtesy visit to Justice Muhammad by an NBA delegation led by Akpata.

During the visit, the NBA President also assured that the Bar would continue to defend the Bench in the task of delivering justice without fear or favour.

Below is a press statement on the visit made available to CITY LAWYER.

NBA LEADERSHIP PAYS COURTESY VISIT ON THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF NIGERIA: REVIEWS THE OUTCOME OF THE JUSTICE SECTOR SUMMIT, SECURES COMMITMENT OF THE JUDICIARY IN ITS IMPLEMENTATION AND PLEDGES TO KEEP SPEAKING UP FOR THE BENCH.

Dear Colleagues,

In continuation of the efforts of the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (“NBA”) to engender a more cordial relationship between the Bar and the Bench, the President of the NBA – Mr. Olumide Akpata, on Thursday 24th March 2022 led some members of the National Executive and senior members of the Bar, on a courtesy visit to the Chief Justice of the Federation.

During the visit, a review of the outcome of the 2022 Justice Sector summit was done, regarding the appointment/selection and discipline of Judges, independence and financial autonomy of our Courts in dispensing justice without fear, favour, affection or ill-will, and the efficiency and efficacy of the system to ensure that our courts perform optimally, with considerable speed and accuracy.

Thereafter, The Chief Justice of Nigeria – Hon. Justice Dr. Ibrahim Tanko pointed out that most of the recommendations stemming from the Justice Sector Summit are already part of the National Judicial Council (NJC) Policy of 2016, which unfortunately are not yet being implemented.

Consequently, it was agreed that a Five member committee of the Bar and Bench will be set in motion to work out the modalities for the implementation of the Justice Sector recommendation.

Furthermore, the NBA President on behalf of the delegation, pledged to continue speaking up for the Bench since the code guiding members of the Bench bars them from responding to attacks meted on its members.

The CJN thanked the NBA President for the thoughtful visit and reminded the delegation that the Bar and Bench are different sides to a coin which must work in symphony. He further pledged by way of conclusion, that more steps will be taken to ensure a more efficient dispensation of justice, and implementation of the decisions reached at the Justice Sector Summit.

Dr. Rapulu Nduka
Publicity Secretary,
Nigerian Bar Association

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Mar 31, 2022
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GADZAMA LAUDS NBA WOMEN FORUM, UYO, YENAGOA BRANCHES

The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Security Agencies Relations Committee, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has felicitated with the NBA Women Forum on its 2nd Annual Conference.

Similar felicitations were delivered to the forum by the J-K Gadzama LLP Women’s Group and Young Lawyers Group of J-K Gadzama LLP.

The leading arbitrator has also hailed NBA Uyo and Yenagoa branches on their Annual Law Week programmes.

Below are the Goodwill Messages.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Mar 31, 2022
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OSINBAJO, AKPATA, AFE BABALOLA SEEK LEGAL EDUCATION CURRICULUM OVERHAUL

Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; Nigerian Bar Association President, Mr. Olumide Akpata and founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, have canvassed an overhaul of the curriculum for legal education to reflect contemporary reality.

The legal giants and senior advocates identified an obsolete curriculum as one of the biggest challenges confronting the development of legal education in Nigeria.

Osinbajo and Babalola spoke during the 2022 Legal Education Summit organised by the Nigerian Bar Association in collaboration with ABUAD with the theme, ‘Reimagining legal education in Nigeria’ holding at ABUAD. While Babalola spoke in Ado Ekiti, the vice president addressed the gathering through virtual mode.

Osinbajo, who said the Nigerian law schools were producing lawyers who could not measure up to contemporary benchmarks and the global best practices in the legal profession, said that a well-articulated review of the obsolete curriculum would ensure the Nigerian Law graduates acquired qualitative legal education and compete favorably with their contemporaries.

He stressed the need for law graduates to be subjected to intense practical training rather than theoretical aspects with a view to exposing them to the mastery of intricacies of the legal profession.

In the keynote address, Babalola, who said the proliferation of law school campuses would not solve the problem of access to legal education, said, “It is common knowledge today that there is not a single one of all the existing law school campuses in the country that has modern equipment, libraries, internet facilities, E- libraries and modern ICT infrastructures.

“For me, what we need is a central law school. The law school, which should be a regulatory body will provide curricula for training for law graduates, supervise the university which will train graduates for the law school examination, set final examinations for students who would be called to the Bar.

“It would also accredit universities which have law colleges to train the graduate lawyers for 12 months after which they will take a common examination which would be moderated by the central law school.

“So, with these proposed arrangements, the law graduates will proceed to these reputable colleges/faculties of law with up-to-date facilities and faculty members of international repute for their post-LL.B training and only to write their ‘Call to the Bar Examinations’ without having to be a residential student in any law school as is currently the case.

“This way, the hydra-headed problems of the paucity of funding, derelict facilities and inadequate accommodations space would have been solved”, he said.

The NBA President, Mr. Olumide Akpata, who corroborated Osinbajo and Babalola on the need to review the curriculum, said experience with fresh law graduates had shown that they lacked the requisite knowledge to fit into today’s law practice.

Akata, who said the curriculum being used in the universities and the Nigerian Law School had hardly changed over the years, said there was an urgent need to revise the present curriculum to meet the global developmental challenge.

“It is a truism that quality legal education is an essential element and ingredient to legal professionals who are competently representing clients and contribute to the establishment of the rule of law. But, our country’s legal standard has declined in all its measure.

“This is as a result of the general decline in Nigeria’s educational standard which has played role in undermining our ailing system of legal education and training of law graduates that can compete with their contemporaries,” a PUNCH newspaper report quoted Akpata as saying.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Mar 24, 2022
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ANXIETY, AS OJO FAULTS ECNBA, DEMANDS ZONING OF PRESIDENCY, OTHERS

WE WILL RESPOND SOONEST – ECNBA CHAIR

Fiery Bar Leader and former Secretary of the NBA Constitution Review Committee, Mr. Olasupo Ojo has faulted the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) over its recently released Preliminary Notice of Election.

The activist also demanded an amendment of the notice to reflect “micro zoning” of offices to geopolitical blocs. If implemented, the ECNBA may zone the contest for NBA Presidency to the North East Zone. This will leave the field wide open for the Chairman of the NBA Security Agencies Relations Committee, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN to clinch the coveted seat while shutting out the Chairman of the NBA Welfare Committee, Mr. Yakubu Maikyau SAN and immediate past NBA General Secretary, Mr. Jonathan Taidi who are also believed to be eyeing the position.

In a letter to ECNBA obtained by CITY LAWYER, Ojo asked the ECNBA “to urgently fully give effect to the provisions of the NBA Constitution (including the binding micro zoning provisions) and administer the applicable rules fairly and firmly in line with the Commitment of the Committee as restated in your letter dated 1st February, 2022 to me.”

Meanwhile, the ECNBA Chairman, Mr. Richard Akintunde SAN told CITY LAWYER that the committee is already in receipt of the complaint, adding that it would respond “as soon as possible.”

The letter was titled “RE: ECNBA PRELIMINARY NOTICE OF ELECTION” and dated March 21, 2022. It was copied to NBA President and all national officers, the Chairman and all members of the Body of Benchers as well as the Chairman and all members of the NBA Board of Trustees.

According to Ojo, the Electoral Reform and Audit Committee “had recommended that the micro zoning provision in the NBA Constitution should be strictly adhered to in order to ensure that no group and/or section in a geographical zone is marginalized and the unity of the bar is preserved.”

He stated that “This recommendation was approved, adopted and endorsed by the National Executive Council as reflected in the communiqué issued by the President and General Secretary of the Association on 18th March, 2021.There was no contrary decision and/or resolution reached at the 2021 Annual General Meeting in Port-Harcourt on this adopted recommendation.”

He argued that while the different sections/groups that make up each geographical zone are the geopolitical zones/blocs, “the legitimate expectation from the ECNBA was for the preliminary notice of election to specifically indicate the particular sections/groups in the zones and the component states for each of the zoned positions.”

Ojo stated that he was “taken aback when I read the preliminary notice of election which did not specify the sections/groups and the component states in line with the mandatory micro zoning provision of the NBA Constitution. For the sake of emphasis, I hereby reproduce the provision of paragraph 4 of Part IV of the second schedule to the NBA Constitution thus: “Where a position is zoned to any particular geographical zone, the position shall be rotated and held in turn by the different groups and/or sections in the geographical zone.”

“There is no doubt that the office of the President, Second Vice President and General Secretary are zoned to the Northern, Eastern and Western Zones respectively. All that it left to be done is the reflection of the specific groups and/or sections within each of the Zones that should contest and hold the zoned officers in line with the micro zoning arrangement. This has not been done up till this moment although the guidelines are yet to be released.”

Berating the association for allegedly side-stepping its rules, Ojo said: “The NBA, as a professional body of lawyers, cannot continue to break its own rules and/or disregard the rule of law. You may recall that I had earlier instituted an action in Suit No FHC/CS/545/2016 (Olasupo Ojo v. Registered Trustees of Nigerian Bar Association) before the Federal High Court against the NBA Trustees in 2016 which was decided in my favour. The said Judgment invalidated the 2015 NBA Constitution under which the then NBA national leadership assumed office. Unfortunately, the Judgment of the Court was swept under the carpet and not complied with. It is that same invalidated Constitution that was amended in 2019 and further amended in 2021.”

The Bar Leader noted that he had also “objected to the registration of the NBA Constitution (as amended in 2021) by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in the manner in which it was presented by NBA on the ground that it was wrongly titled “NBA Constitution 2021” and contained sections 28 and 29 which purported to repeal the extant constitution all contrary to the resolution duly adopted and passed in 2021 at the Annual General Meeting in Port-Harcourt. CAC upheld my objection and following the success, the Constitution was corrected to properly read “The Constitution of the Nigerian Bar Association 2015 (as amended in 2021)” and the amendments were correctly reflected by the NBA as pointed out by me.”

His words: “As lawyers, we must always be seen to uphold the rule of law both in our words and actions. It is based on this same philosophy of upholding the rule of law that I deem it necessary to write to the ECNBA again in respect of the issues raised herein. I am finding it increasingly difficult to understand why an Association like NBA should find it difficult to obey its own rules. It is getting tiresome.”

CITY LAWYER recalls that the ECNBA recently issued the Preliminary Notice of Election and zoned the NBA Presidency and First Vice President to the “Northern Zone” while the Second Vice President went to the “Eastern Zone.” The post of Third Vice President and General Secretary were reserved for the “Western Zone while the other posts were not zoned to any bloc.

OLASUPO OJO_ECNBA++

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Mar 23, 2022
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LAW WEEK/SUMMIT: TAIDI HAILS NBA LAGOS, PH YOUNG LAWYERS

Former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) General Secretary, Mr. Jonathan Taidi has lauded NBA Lagos Branch on its 2022 Law Week.

Saying that the Law Week “is coming at a critical period in our nation’s history when law and order have become anathema and lawlessness threatens our very existence, with no hope in sight,” the Bar Leader stated that “the choice of the theme and the timing of discussions around it is inspired and commendable and it is my fervent hope that these discussions around legal order by the NBA Lagos Branch will in no small measure reorient our attitude concerning the preservation of our hard earned democracy.”

In a statement made available to CITY LAWYER, Taidi, who is believed to be eyeing the NBA Presidency, stated that the Law Week “is particularly remarkable for the extraordinary contribution it promises not only to the legal community, but the nation at large.

“As a people thirsty for an enduring solution to the challenges bedevelling our democracy, we anxiously await the outcome of this discourse even as I congratulate the executives and the Law Week Planning Committee in advance for a law week like no other.”

In a similar goodwill message to NBA Port Harcourt Branch Young Lawyers Forum on the occasion of its 2022 Summit, Taidi stated that “The choice of the theme is a demonstration of the commitment of the executives and the Summit Planning Committee to the vital role of technology and law in bringing about good governance which has eluded our nation for so long.

“I therefore charge all participants at this epoch and historic event to critically examine the impediments to our efforts at achieving good governance – which is our only guarantee for a bright future.”

The theme of the summit is “Governance, Technology and Law”.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Mar 21, 2022
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GADZAMA LAUDS NBA LAGOS, KANO, YOUNG LAWYERS ON LAW WEEK, SUMMIT

The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC), Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN has felicitated with NBA Lagos and Kano branches on their Law Week programmes. The chartered arbitrator also commended Young Lawyers Forum Owerri Branch on their 2022 Summit which held between March 17 and March 19, 2022.

The leading litigator said of his sojourn in Lagos: “Nostalgically, I recall how I started my Lagos office as far back as 1996 at No. 10, Ribadu Road, Ikoyi which eventually gave birth to the Abuja Office in the year 2000 where I was elected chairman of the Unity Bar in 2004 and grew up to be the Pioneer Chairman of NBA-SPIDEL in 2006.”

He added: “I remain eternally grateful to the Premier Branch of Nigeria’s Commercial Headquarters for grooming me to be their Ambassador at the administrative Headquarters of our beloved country.”
Below are the texts of the goodwill messages.

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO NBA LAGOS BRANCH

It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the executives and members of the Nigerian Bar Association Lagos Branch as she holds her 2022 Law Week Celebration from Friday, 18th March to Friday, 25th March, 2022.

Nostalgically, I recall how I started my Lagos office as far back as 1996 at no 10, Ribadu Road, Ikoyi which eventually gave birth to the Abuja Office in the year 2000 where I was elected chairman of the Unity Bar in 2004 and grew up to be the Pioneer Chairman of NBA-SPIDEL in 2006. I remain eternally grateful to the Premier Branch of Nigeria’s Commercial Headquarters for grooming me to be their Ambassador at the administrative Headquarters of our beloved country.

I must sincerely commend the initiative of the organizers of this event for the choice of theme: “Democracy and Legal Order: Shaping the Future” which I consider apt. The need for a true democracy is an issue that remains perpetually centric to the growth of any given society. The judiciary should be independent of the other arms of government to effectively deliver its delicate task of administering justice. Indeed, the preservation of our democracy is fundamental to the sustenance of our legal profession and the Nation, Nigeria. What better way can the future be shaped? I believe that as a united front, we can secure the future of our legal practice and Nigeria by advocating for the supremacy of our laws and the equality of all men before the law.

I urge my colleagues to participate effectively, cross-fertilize ideas whilst addressing issues that affect distinguished members of this great branch by contributing your quota to the promotion and development of your branch, legal practice and Nigeria as a whole. Whilst wishing you a fruitful weeklong celebration, please be assured of my best wishes and support, always.

Thank you and God bless.

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO NBA KANO BRANCH

It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the executives and members of the Nigerian Bar Association Kano Branch as she holds her Law Week scheduled to hold from Saturday, 19th March to Tuesday, 22nd March, 2022.

I must sincerely commend the initiative of the organizers of this auspicious event for the choice of theme: “LEGAL PRACTICE AT CROSSROADS: CHALLENGES OF LAWYERING IN THE FACE OF NIGERIA’S CURRENT POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC CLIMATE” which I consider apt as the impact of our noble profession in the political and economical spheres of our great Country, Nigeria cannot be overemphasized.

To the awardees on the Dinner, I say a big Congratulations! to you on your meritorious award for your ceaseless support and contribution towards the development and promotion of your admirable branch. I implore you to keep it up and remain true ambassadors of your branch and the legal profession.

Whilst wishing you a wonderful celebration at your programmes and a splendid dinner, please be assured of my best wishes and support, always.

Thank you and God bless.

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO NBA-YLF OWERRI BRANCH

It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the executives and members of the Nigerian Bar Association Young Lawyers Forum Owerri Branch as she holds her 2022 Summit scheduled to hold from Thursday, March 17 to Saturday, March 19, 2022.

It is worrisome and my heart bleeds that many of our young lawyers are not breaking even today as opportunities at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Courts, and Land Registries, to mention but a few, are no longer available like in the past. We must as a matter of urgency address these critical issues if we desire a robust practice and better future for our young lawyers and mentees.

I must sincerely commend the initiative of the organizers of this auspicious event for the choice of theme: “Yesterday, Today and the Future of the Legal Profession in Nigeria” which I consider apt as the future of the legal profession very much rests in the hand of the Young lawyers.

To the awardees of the Dinner, I say a big Congratulations! to you on your meritorious award for your ceaseless support and contribution towards the development and promotion of young lawyers in the branch. I implore you to keep it up and remain true ambassadors of your branch and the legal profession.

Whilst wishing you a successful programme and a splendid dinner, please be assured of my best wishes and support, always.

Thank you and God bless.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Mar 16, 2022
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RPC: MALAMI ASKS COURT TO DISMISS NBA’S SUIT

• SAYS BAR COUNCIL RATIFIED RPC

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami SAN has asked the Federal High Court to dismiss a suit brought by the Nigerian Bar Association to annul the amended Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners (RPC).

Malami has also told the court that the Bar Council held a meeting to ratify the controversial RPC, CITY LAWYER can exclusively report.

CITY LAWYER recalls that the Nigerian Bar Association had through the Chief Ferdinand Orbih SAN-led NBA Section on Legal Practice (NBA-SLP), dragged the Attorney General to court via an originating summons dated 17th January, 2022 and filed on 24th January, 2022 alleging that Malami unilaterally amended the RPC without due process of law.

The Attorney-General argued that the NBA lacked the locus standi to institute the action, urging the court to dismiss the plaintiff’s claim “for failure to comply with the Evidence act and lacks (sic) locus standi to institute it.”

In a counter-affidavit obtained by CITY LAWYER and deposed by one Oni Michael, a Litigation Officer in the Civil Litigation and Public Law Department, Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, he stated “That members of the General Council of the Bar were invited for the meeting which was held.”

Restating this point in the written address, the defendant said: “My Lord, we submit that an invitation has (sic) been sent to all members of the General Council of the Bar and some have (sic) attended the meeting. Subsequently any decision arrived at the meeting where a member is voluntarily absent is binding on all members as the quorum was provided in subsection 4 of section 1 of the LPA. We urge my lord to so hold.”

Continuing, the deponent stated that Malami “did that which he is statutorily empowered to do strictly within the confines of the Law as the Chief Law Officer of the Federation and the President of the General Council of the Bar.”

He restated that “a meeting (of the Bar Council) was called and members of the Council were duly notified and present in same.”

Malami argued that he is “statutorily empowered to improve the professionalism of legal practice in Nigeria,” adding that “The Plaintiff is bringing this action based on mere speculation and hearsay as he (NBA) is not a member of the General Council of the Bar.”

In the written address in opposition to the plaintiff’s originating summons, Malami argued that “The plaintiff commences this suit without averting his mind to the fact that he is not a member of the General Council of the Bar and as such cannot challenge what they deliberate on in their meetings and whatsoever he said amounts to hearsay and the Plaintiff has no Locus to institute this action.”

The matter, INCORPORATED TRUSTEES OF THE NBA VS ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION has also been assigned Suit Number FHC/ABJ/CS/77/2022 and slated for March 24 by Justice Donatus Okorowo of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Mar 14, 2022
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POLICE DETAIN SENIOR LAWYER FOR ‘LATENESS’, GADZAMA VOWS TO WADE IN

A 57-year-old senior lawyer, Mr. Ayodeji Odukale has been detained at Force Criminal Investigation Bureau, Alagbon, Lagos for allegedly coming late to an appointment with the police.

Odukale, who was admitted to the Nigerian Bar 31 years ago, told CITY LAWYER that he was detained overnight in a cell without food or medical attention on the order of Mr. Salisu Gyadi Gyadi, Commissioner of Police, Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB) Annex, Lagos.

According to Odukale, Gyadi ordered his detention alongside his client on the ground that they “kept him waiting” and came late to a meeting over an allegation of threat to life brought by a complainant.

He told CITY LAWYER that his ordeal started when he accompanied his client to the meeting, adding that immediately the duo entered the meeting room, Gyadi said he would “personally sign” their detention order for coming late to the meeting. He said that the police chief did not allow them to speak.

In a post he made on a lawyers’ platform, the senior lawyer said: “Good evening colleagues, I want to bring an unfortunate incident to our attention especially as there is a meeting tomorrow (today). I went for a meeting with a victim of domestic violence to meet with the commissioner of Police Force Intelligence Bureau, Kam Salem building, Obalende on Wednesday. The commissioner said we came late for the meeting and ordered that we be detained at Alagbon. Because you normally drop your phone before entering, l left my phone in the car. As a result, I could not communicate with the outside world. Somehow, I managed to get information across to my wife who tweeted NBA Lagos and NBA National. Unfortunately, to the best of my knowledge, till today there has been no response from the NBA. It seems the NBA cares little about members in distress and this arbitrary use of power. What if we had a medical situation warranting administration of medicine every hour? So NBA would now rush and come and pay condolence visit?”

He said that the matter turned on a domestic violence complaint incidented by his client at the Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT), adding that the team referred the matter to the Adeniji Adele Police Station. He stated that a police team from the station visited the suspect, and that the suspect turned around to levy a charge that he and his client brought “thugs” to threaten him. Odukale added that “threat to life” is not an offence known to Nigeria’s jurisprudence.

Odukale told CITY LAWYER that he and his client were detained at Force Headquarters Annex, Alagbon from Wednesday evening until Thursday afternoon when his family made frantic efforts to secure his release.

Asked whether he posted bail before his release, he said: “No; nothing like that. The CP just ordered our release, saying that it was a civil matter between husband and wife! It means I was detained for nothing. That is why NBA absolutely needs to make a statement on this matter to say that you do not detain people for nothing. That they invested an officer with power to detain citizens does not mean it should be deployed arbitrarily. What is more, I came innocently to the station even without an invitation. I was not aware of any time set for the meeting. I could have died from the shock of my detention or had a stroke. I was dumped there without anyone even bothering to know whether I was dead or alive. In fact, the operatives at Alagbon told me that the detention order was signed in red ink, saying that it was an indication that the signatory wanted us to be dumped in the worst of the dungeons!”

Responding to the charge of neglect by NBA, the Chairman of the NBA Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC), Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama SAN told CITY LAWYER that he was not aware of the matter. His words: “I have been away to Katsina and unreachable because of bad weather and network. I’m on transit now. We have all shared responsibility as (NBA-SARC) committee members. I can’t remember seeing his message. Text me his number and one of our committee members will get across to him.”

Though CITY LAWYER contacted Mr. Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Acting Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) on the matter, he was yet to respond at press time.

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Mar 13, 2022
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AKPATA IMPLEMENTS NEW CONSTITUTION, SETS UP DIASPORA FORUM

Barely 48 hours after CITY LAWYER broke the news of approval of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) amended Constitution by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the NBA leadership under Mr. Olumide Akpata has commenced implementation of the new constitution.

In a press statement made available to CITY LAWYER by NBA Publicity Secretary, Dr. Rapulu Nduka, the association stated that “The forum is to serve as a platform to connect and provide a voice for all persons qualified to practice law in Nigeria, but resident outside Nigeria.”

The statement added that “This forum will also serve as a structured platform through which all lawyers in the diaspora may contribute their quota – individually and collectively – to the development of the Nigerian Bar, the Nigerian legal system, and the practice of law in Nigeria.”

Section 4 of the amended constitution provides that “There shall be three categories of membership: Full Membership, Honorary Membership, and International Membership.” Section 4(3) further provides that “Any person who is called to the bar or qualified to practice as a lawyer in any jurisdiction other than Nigeria may apply to be admitted as an international member of the Association upon the payment of a prescribed subscription fee.”

The full text of the press statement reads:

NBA ESTABLISHES LAWYERS IN DIASPORA FORUM (LDF)

Dear Colleague,

Recall that one of the innovations in the recently amended NBA Constitution 2021, is the establishment of a Lawyers in Diaspora Forum (LDF). The forum is to serve as a platform to connect and provide a voice for all persons qualified to practice law in Nigeria, but resident outside Nigeria. This forum will also serve as a structured platform through which all lawyers in the diaspora may contribute their quota – individually and collectively – to the development of the Nigerian Bar, the Nigerian legal system, and the practice of law in Nigeria.

To join this forum, a prospective member must (i) be qualified to practice law in Nigeria; (ii) belong to a branch of the NBA; (iii) have paid his/her Bar Practice Fees; and (iv) be resident outside Nigeria. Anyone who meets these requirements is urged to kindly complete the attached form –
https://forms.gle/FduB6ACviQCRcYz76

Kindly note that the personal data provided while completing this form will be used strictly by the NBA to maintain a central register for NBA lawyers in the diaspora and for communicating directly with its members on matters relating to the NBA generally, or to the forum specifically.

Dr. Rapulu Nduka
Publicity Secretary,
Nigerian Bar Association

NBA

WE WILL RESPOND SOONEST – ECNBA CHAIR

• SAYS BAR COUNCIL RATIFIED RPC