OLI – CITY LAWYER MAGAZINE

EMEKA NWADIOKE
Aug 02, 2022
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MAIKYAU TO BE SWORN IN, AS GADZAMA BOWS OUT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Below is the full text of the statement.

PRESS RELEASE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Long live the Nigerian Bar Association!

Signed:

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

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EMEKA NWADIOKE
Aug 01, 2022
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VOX POPULI FOUNDATION LIFTS KEFFI PRISON WITH GIFTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Signed:

Hassan Sherif
Publicity Secretary
Vox Populi Foundation

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EMEKA NWADIOKE
Jul 27, 2022
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GADZAMA SHUNS NBA APPEALS C’TE OVER BIAS CONCERNS, DG WRITES AKPATA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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EMEKA NWADIOKE
Jul 17, 2022
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NBA ELECTION: ‘WE ARE ALL WINNERS,’ SAYS GADZAMA’S DG

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

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

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EMEKA NWADIOKE
Jun 08, 2022
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GADZAMA GETS ROUSING WELCOME AT EBF, IKEJA, LAFIA, MAKURDI, UNITY BAR

FEATURED

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It was indeed a memorable night!!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

It was a great night as priceless memories were made.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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EMEKA NWADIOKE
May 10, 2022
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Comments Off on LAWYER ASKS COURT TO SACK EMEFIELE AS CBN GOVERNOR

LAWYER ASKS COURT TO SACK EMEFIELE AS CBN GOVERNOR

An Abuja based senior lawyer, Mr. Tochukwu Ohazuruike has urged the Federal High Court to order Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele to resign.

In an Originating Summons brought by their Lead Counsel, Chief Chukwudi Oli of Oli & Partners pursuant to Sections 2, 8(4-5), 9 &11(2)(C) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007; Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022; Section 6(6) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), and under the inherent jurisdiction of the court, Ohazuruike, who is suing alongside Mr. Alieze Sunday Ekpa as plaintiffs, is praying for “AN ORDER mandating the 1st Defendant to cease holding office as the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria by virtue of his acts of serious misconduct in filing Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 610 /2022 – GODWIN EMEFIELE VS INEC & AGF seeking interpretation of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022, amidst other political participations and/or interests etc, while still serving as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as against the object/purpose of the 2nd Defendant and the minimum standard of duties imposed on him by virtue of Sections 2 and 9 respectively of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 and in compliance with Section 11(2)(c) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.”

The defendants are Mr. Godwin Emefiele, Central Bank of Nigeria and Attorney General of the Federation.

The plaintiffs are seeking “AN ORDER directing the 2nd Defendant to cease recognising the 1st Defendant as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria by virtue of his acts of serious misconduct in filing Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 610 /2022 – GODWIN EMEFIELE VS INEC & AGF seeking interpretation of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022, amidst other political participations and/or interests etc, while still serving as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as against the object/purpose of the 2nd Defendant and the minimum standard of duties imposed on him by virtue of Sections 2 and 9 respectively of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 and in compliance with Section 11(2)(c) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007,” and

“AN ORDER directing the 3rd Defendant to take all necessary steps in ensuring compliance that the 1st Defendant cease to be recognised by the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria by virtue of his acts of serious misconduct in filing Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 610 /2022 – GODWIN EMEFIELE VS INEC & AGF seeking interpretation of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022, amidst other political participations and/or interests etc, while still serving as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as against the object/purpose of the 2nd Defendant and the minimum standard of duties imposed on him by virtue of Sections 2 and 9 respectively of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 and in compliance with Section 11(2)(c) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.”

They are also asking for “AN ORDER OF PERPETUAL INJUNCTION against the 1st Defendant retraining him from further parading himself as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria by virtue of his acts of serious misconduct in filing Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 610 /2022 – GODWIN EMEFIELE VS INEC & AGF seeking interpretation of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022, amidst other political participations and/or interests etc, while still serving as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as against the object/purpose of the 2nd Defendant and the minimum standard of duties imposed on him by virtue of Sections 2 and 9 respectively of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 and in compliance with Section 11(2)(c) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.

“AN ORDER OF PERPETUAL INJUNCTION against the 2nd Defendant, its Board of Directors, agents, servants, privies etc from recognising and/or allowing the 1st Defendant to continue to parade himself as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria by virtue of his acts of serious misconduct in filing Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 610 /2022 – GODWIN EMEFIELE VS INEC & AGF seeking interpretation of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022, amidst other political participations and/or interests etc, while still serving as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as against the object/purpose of the 2nd Defendant and the minimum standard of duties imposed on him by virtue of Sections 2 and 9 respectively of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 and in compliance with Section 11(2)(c) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.

“AN ORDER OF PERPETUAL INJUNCTION against the 3rd Defendant, his principal, appointor, agents, servants, privies etc from recognising or allowing the 1st Defendant to continue to parade himself as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria by virtue of his acts of serious misconduct in filing Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 610 /2022 – GODWIN EMEFIELE VS INEC & AGF seeking interpretation of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022, amidst other political participations and/or interests etc, while still serving as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as against the object/purpose of the 2nd Defendant and the minimum standard of duties imposed on him by virtue of Sections 2 and 9 respectively of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007 and in compliance with Section 11(2)(c) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.

“AN ORDER awarding the sum of Ten Million Naira Only (N10,000,000.00) as cost of this action against the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Defendants in favour of the Plaintiff in this suit,” and

“AN ORDER awarding a 10% post judgment interest on the judgement sum of this suit against the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Defendants from the date of judgment till final liquidation.”

Supported by a 34-paragraph affidavit sworn by the senior lawyer, the plaintiffs are seeking “A DECLARATION that by the express provisions of Sections 2 and 8(4-5) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, the object, purpose and business of the Central Bank of Nigeria (2nd Defendant) has nothing to do with the provision of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022 or engaging in any direct or indirect political activities in Nigeria vis-à-vis the duties and functions of the 1st Defendant as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria.”

They are also asking for “A DECLARATION that the 1st Defendant’s suit filed in this Honourable Court on 5th May, 2022 in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 610 /2022 – GODWIN EMEFIELE VS INEC & AGF seeking the interpretation of the provision of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022 etc. while still serving as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does amount to engaging in activities contrary to the minimum standard of duties imposed on the 1st Defendant pursuant to the express provision of Section 9 of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.

“A DECLARATION that the 1st Defendant’s act in filing Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 610 /2022 – GODWIN EMEFIELE VS INEC & AGF seeking interpretation of the provision of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which preclude serving political appointees from been delegates or candidates in political parties’ congresses and/or conventions, amidst other political participations and/or interests etc, has exposed the 1st Defendant as partisan and interested in direct political activities in Nigeria, while still serving as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) contrary to the the express provisions of Sections 2, 8(4-5) and 9 of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.

“A DECLARATION that the 1st Defendant is liable to acts of serious misconduct contrary to Section 11(2)(c) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, by virtue of his act of filing Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 610 /2022 – GODWIN EMEFIELE VS INEC & AGF seeking interpretation of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022, amidst other political participations and/or interests etc, while still serving as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as against the object/purpose of the 2nd Defendant and the minimum standard of duties imposed on him by virtue of Sections 2 and 9 respectively of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007,” and

“A DECLARATION that the 1st Defendant is liable to cease holding office as the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria by the serious acts of misconduct constituted in his filing of Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/ 610 /2022 – GODWIN EMEFIELE VS INEC & AGF seeking interpretation of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act, 2022, amidst other political participations and/or interests etc, while still serving as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as stipulated under Section 11(2)(c) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.”

No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.