The Oyo State Police Command has strongly rejected a circulating rumor on social media that claims 50 individuals have mysteriously died, prompting a declaration of a State of Emergency in the region.
In a statement, the Police Command emphasized that these allegations are baseless and warned the public against sharing unverified and misleading information that could disrupt the peace and harmony in Oyo State.
Adewale Osifeso, the Command’s spokesperson, assured law-abiding citizens that they could continue their daily activities without fear. He reiterated the Police Force’s commitment to maintaining order and safety, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority.
The Command’s clarification comes as a reminder for residents to remain vigilant against rumors that may incite unnecessary panic.
A soldier, Nathaniel Jeremiah, serving with the Nigerian Army’s 7 Division, has been detained at the Borno Express Terminal Park in Maiduguri, following his arrest on suspicion of illegally possessing ammunition.
The soldier, who was attempting to board a vehicle bound for Adamawa State on a welfare pass, was stopped during a routine security check. During the search, security personnel discovered 89 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition concealed in his personal bag, raising immediate concerns.
According to security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, the ammunition was seized, and Jeremiah was promptly taken into custody for further interrogation. The recovered rounds have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for detailed investigation.
As of now, officials have yet to release a public statement regarding the incident, though investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the soldier’s possession of the ammunition.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch, is set to host the 2025 Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture tomorrow, 15th January 2025, at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, starting at 10:00 AM.
This year’s lecture, themed “Bretton Woods and the African Economies: Can Nigeria Survive Another Structural Adjustment Program?“, will bring together renowned experts to discuss critical issues shaping Nigeria’s economic future.
The event commemorates the 21st anniversary of Fawehinmiism, celebrating the life and legacy of the legendary legal icon, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN.
Don’t miss the chance to connect with top legal, academic, and economic minds in a discussion that shapes Nigeria’s future!
The Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, on Friday, delivered a landmark judgment, overruling the decision of the Federal High Court, Kano Division, which had questioned the appointment of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano.
In a major victory for the Kano State Government, the appellate court reversed the lower court’s verdict, declaring that the Federal High Court had exceeded its jurisdiction in ruling on the matter. The judgment, handed down by a three-member panel led by Justice Mohammed Mustapha, emphasized that chieftaincy issues fall outside the purview of the Federal High Court.
The case had originated from an application filed by Aminu Babba Dan’Agundi, a member of the former Emirate Council under the late Emir Aminu Ado Bayero. Dan’Agundi had sought the enforcement of fundamental rights, challenging the removal of Bayero and the dissolution of the five emirates through the newly enacted Emirate Council Repeal Law of 2023. He argued that the actions infringed on his rights, as they were taken without due consultation.
However, the Court of Appeal ruled that the Federal High Court had no jurisdiction to intervene in chieftaincy matters, which are governed by state law. The panel declared that the lower court’s attempt to maintain the status quo on this matter was improper, given that it was beyond the court’s authority to do so.
The appellate court further noted that the ruling of Justice Abdullahi Liman of the Federal High Court, which had effectively left Kano with two ruling emirs, was an overreach. It found that the Federal High Court’s intervention into chieftaincy matters violated the principles outlined in the Nigerian Constitution.
This ruling solidifies the position of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the rightful Emir of Kano. His appointment had been challenged but was reaffirmed by the Court of Appeal, which clarified that the Kano State Emirate Council Law governs such issues and that the Federal High Court is not empowered to adjudicate on them.
The decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing chieftaincy dispute in Kano, which saw a series of legal battles following the enactment of the Kano Emirates Repeal Law. With this judgment, Sanusi’s position as the 16th Emir remains intact, further cementing his leadership of the Kano throne.
In addition to this case, the appellate court also voided a ruling from the Kano State High Court, which had perpetually restricted Ado Bayero from claiming the title of emir. The appellate court directed the Kano State Chief Judge to reassign the matter for a fresh hearing, emphasizing the need for fair hearing principles to be upheld in the judicial process.
With the Court of Appeal’s decision, Sanusi’s leadership has been reaffirmed, and he remains the legitimate ruler of the Kano Emirate. This victory for the Kano State Government comes just weeks after Governor Abba Yusuf’s approval of the Kano Emirate Council Repeal Law, which restored Sanusi to the throne on May 3, 2024.
Aminu Babba Dan’Agundi, senior counsel to the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, has announced plans to contest the recent Court of Appeal judgment favoring the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, at the Supreme Court.
Dan’Agundi, who also holds the title of Sarkin Dawaki Babba of the Kano Emirate, initially sought to enforce fundamental human rights at the Federal High Court, alleging violations during the contentious emirship dispute.
Speaking from the Nassarawa Mini Palace, Dan’Agundi expressed dissatisfaction with the appellate court’s decision and vowed to seek redress. “The emirship crisis is far from over. No one can claim victory yet because we are challenging this ruling at the Supreme Court,” he stated.
He revealed that his legal team had been directed to obtain a certified true copy of the judgment, emphasizing that filing an appeal at the Supreme Court would effectively stay the lower court’s decision until the case is conclusively resolved.
Dan’Agundi explained the appellate court’s judgment, noting that the presiding judge had suggested transferring the case to the state’s Chief Judge to ensure a fair hearing. “The court did not dismiss our claims outright but ruled that it lacked jurisdiction,” he said.
He further clarified: “Two of the judges disagreed with the lead judgment, resulting in the appeal being struck out. This is why I am taking the matter to the Supreme Court. Whatever decision is made there will be final, and we submit to the will of Allah. Until then, no one should celebrate victory prematurely.”
Dan’Agundi urged Kano residents to remain calm and law-abiding as the legal proceedings continue, assuring them that the matter would be resolved through due process.
One cannot truly understand the importance of government except a critical look is taken at the description of the Hobbesian state of nature where life is solitary, nasty, poor, brutish and short. The English philosopher opined that a civilized society is only possible when individuals enter into a social contract where all rights, privileges, strength, power and sanctions are transferred to one sovereign entity which serves as limitations to the full exercise of individual’s discretional control over others.
Just yesterday, in what looked like an appraisal of the activities of the Ministry of Justice under the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of the state, Dr Kayode Ajulo, SAN, OON, who proudly reeled out his achievements, challenges and prospects. In fact, he echoed that the Ministry of Justice encountered daunting challenges at the beginning but all storms were weathered to birth significant strides. In getting things done properly, Dr Ajulo acknowledged the guiding hand and unwavering support of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
Aside Governor Aiyedatiwa’s heavy investment in delivering a befitting judicial complex, a project which he has named after his late boss, Arakunrin Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, billed to be completed in few months to come, Governor Aiyedatiwa has revolutionized the administration of Justice in the state through the ingenuity of the Commissioner for Justice by introducing innovative concepts while revitalizing leadership within key departments of the Ministry.
Amending the High Court Statute to allow an additional eleven judges remains a beautiful step towards enhancing the functionality of the judiciary. In the same vein, Aiyedatiwa made history in the appointment of six new Judges. This remains a milestone that has never been achieved since the creation of the state.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to the sanctity of the law spurred him to employ legal officers whose expertises are needed to efficiently drive workable measures in achieving the desired judicial goals for the state. This is in addition to providing a conducive environment for law officers, increased budgetary allocation, adequate logistics to ease court representation etc. It is safe to say that Governor Aiyedatiwa made everything available for the laws to work for the people of Ondo state.
Hear the commendation of Ajulo:
“Our renewed advocacy for increased budgetary allocations has yielded promising results, enabling us to direct more resources into enhancing justice and legal services. As a result, our colleagues now receive the respect and recognition they rightfully deserve, particularly with the recent enactment of legislation against land-grabbing. We have also prioritized the welfare of our entire staff, leveraging both public allocated funds and our private resources to ensure their well-being, understanding that their success is the foundation of our collective achievements”.
It is instructive to note that Ondo state judicial system resonates with integrity and a strong focus on achieving a crisis free environment. The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) department is strengthened to incubate measures of resolving conflicts amicably. While exercising his constitutional right to grant individuals freedom through the prerogative of mercy, Governor Aiyedatiwa has shown integrity that is deeply missing in other states. He has empowered all lawyers in the state by assenting to Hon Ogunwumiju’s land-grabbing bill which forbids anyone from selling land in Ondo state without the involvement of a lawyer.
Going forward, in his quest for a society that works for all, Governor Aiyedatiwa will leave no stone unturned as he strengthens the laws to work for both the rich and poor. In Ondo state, nobody is above the law that Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa swore to protect.
Sunday Abire is Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor of Ondo State
Lagos State lawmakers have come under fire after it was revealed that they spent a staggering N43.5 billion on “backup vehicles” for the 40 members of the state’s House of Assembly. This exorbitant spending, which forms part of N90.5 billion withdrawn from state coffers for questionable expenses between January 2023 and the third quarter of 2024, has sparked outrage among opposition leaders and members of the public.The records, show that between 2023 and 2024, the Lagos State Assembly allocated over N30 billion for vehicles during 2023 alone, with an additional N13.3 billion spent in the first three quarters of 2024. Despite the significant expenditure, details about the type of vehicles purchased remain scarce, though it is believed each lawmaker received vehicles worth approximately N1.1 billion.The spending spree is part of a broader pattern of what critics label as wasteful practices by Lagos lawmakers. Opposition leaders have decried the decision to prioritize luxury vehicles over the pressing needs of the state’s residents. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s candidate in the 2023 governorship election, condemned the expenditure, calling it emblematic of the insensitivity of the ruling APC. “Any politician who prioritizes their comfort at a time of extreme hunger and hardship is unfit for public service,” Rhodes-Vivour remarked, warning that such actions risk inflaming public discontent.The revelations come amid widespread concerns about the management of public funds in Lagos, one of Nigeria’s wealthiest states, yet one that struggles with basic infrastructure such as streetlights on major roads. Despite significant revenue generation, the state government has been criticized for its lack of transparency, refusing to open its books to public scrutiny.The Lagos State government, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, continues to allocate billions to undisclosed items in its budget. Critics argue that this financial opacity allows for unchecked spending on frivolous projects, while the state’s residents continue to face economic hardship.
The N3.366 trillion 2025 state budget, which has already been signed into law, marks a sharp increase from previous years but does little to quell concerns over how public funds are managed. While anti-graft agencies like the EFCC have investigated the state’s political elite, no significant prosecutions have resulted from the multiple allegations of corruption, including those against Speaker Obasa.The Peoples Gazette investigation has also revealed a history of questionable business dealings by Obasa, including conducting commercial activities while holding office in violation of the law. Although the EFCC questioned him over the discovery of millions of dollars in his personal accounts, no charges have been filed to date.As Lagos continues to be plagued by corruption and poor governance, citizens are left wondering when transparency and accountability will be prioritized over the lavish lifestyles of its lawmakers.
In a landmark ruling, the Court of Appeal in Abuja has decisively barred the Federal High Court in Kano from handling the legal dispute surrounding the Kano Emirate. In a split decision of two Justices to one, the appellate court ruled that the federal court has no jurisdiction to deliberate on matters related to Kano State’s chieftaincy, stating that such cases should solely be handled by the Kano State High Court.
Justice Gabriel Kolawole, who delivered the lead judgment, emphasized that chieftaincy issues fall under the jurisdiction of state courts, not the Federal High Court. Therefore, he ordered that the case be returned to the Kano State High Court, the appropriate forum for resolving such matters.
The Presiding Justice, Mustapha Mohammed, along with another Justice, concurred with Kolawole’s assertion that the Federal High Court had no jurisdiction over the Kano Emirate dispute. However, they disagreed with Kolawole’s recommendation to have the case reassigned to a judge of the Kano State High Court. Instead, they ruled that the proper course of action was to strike out the case entirely, asserting that the federal court should never have been involved in the matter in the first place.
As a result, the two dissenting Justices ordered that the proceedings of the Federal High Court be struck out, reaffirming that the matter should have been addressed exclusively within the jurisdiction of the Kano State High Court. This ruling has significant implications for how future state-specific legal matters are handled in the country.
The 2nd Vice President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mrs. Bolatumi Animashaun , who also holds a B.A in English and Education, in her comments regarding the assault on a 3 yr old boy attending school at Christ Mitots School at Ikorodu, Lagos State expressed her total displeasure at the behavior of the teacher who assaulted the pupil.
She not only condemned the act but stated that this should be seen as an opportunity for government and other stakeholders to pay attention to what is going on in Nigeria’s Education sector.
She noted that every leader today is shaped by their experiences both in schools and in their communities, teachers should be mindful that they are educating and training the next Chief Justice, the next President of the Country, Doctors, Lawyers, Engineers, etc; hence they must be moderate in how they discipline the children under their care.
The 2nd Vice President of the NBA who has a lot of experience in the education sector agrees that all teachers (public and private schools) must undergo some certified training and psychological evaluation on a regular basis to ensure that their mental health are taken care of. She notes that a trained teacher who has undergone courses on Sociology, Psychology of Education and child development will handle the class better.
She continues by saying; “Experience is good but not adequate in the teaching profession that’s why the teachers need more training”.
The 2nd Vice President praises all those who have intervened in this issue when she states that; “I have been following the news as well as reports from NBA Ikorodu Branch and FIDA Ikorodu. I am proud of our NBA members in these two Associations as well as the police and government agencies who have promptly stepped in to ensure that the victim is protected”.
She goes on to say that; ” While we may be angered by this incidence and justifiably so; we must also consider the exposure of the teacher who may want to believe like some of them who are not professionals do that a child must learn at all cost and if necessary by force. It is these teachers we depend on to train our Scientist, Lawyers, Bankers etc.
I believe however, that the court will do justice in the handling of this matter.
The Oyo High Court sitting in Ibadan has granted bail to the 12 individuals accused of murdering Jeffrey Akro, an undergraduate student of Ajayi Crowther University. The court has adjourned the case until Friday, February 21, 2025.
The suspects, who pleaded not guilty to a two-count charge during a previous hearing at the court in Awe, Oyo State, had their bail application delayed during the last sitting. The case was consequently adjourned until today.
At the latest hearing, Justice Ladiran Akintola granted the suspects bail in the sum of N5 million each, with their parents required to stand as sureties. The court’s decision has allowed the suspects to secure temporary release as the case continues to unfold.
