Legal Nigeria

From Sola Ojo, Abuja

Justice Maryann Anineh of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Maitama, Abuja, on Tuesday, 10 December 2024, refused to grant bail to former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello on the grounds that his bail application was filed prematurely and intended to preempt the course of justice.

The Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, stated on Tuesday that Bello, alongside Umar Shuaibu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a 16-count charge of criminal breach of trust and money laundering to the tune of N110.4 billion.

Delivering a ruling on Bello’s bail application, the judge held that the application, filed on 22 November 2024, was incompetent as it predated his arrest by the EFCC on 26 November and his arraignment on 27 November, clarifying that a bail application only becomes ripe for hearing after the defendant’s arraignment.

“Having been filed when the first defendant was neither in custody nor before the court, this application is premature and hereby refused,” she said. On the other hand, Bello’s co-defendants were admitted to bail. Oricha was granted bail in the sum of N300 million with two sureties in like sum.

“The sureties,” the judge held, “must be Nigerian citizens with landed properties within the court’s jurisdiction. The title documents of the lands, as well as his passport, must be deposited with the court registrar, and he will have to remain in Kuje Correctional Centre until he meets the bail conditions.”


“Hudu’s bail was on the same financial terms. His sureties must own properties in Maitama, Abuja, and must depose affidavits of means, submit two recent passport photographs, and provide their travel documents to the court.

“He was barred from travelling outside the country without the instruction of the court and will remain in the custody of Kuje Correctional Centre until he fulfils his bail conditions.

“Following the ruling, prosecution counsel Chukwudi Enedini, SAN, prayed the court for a trial date. Justice Anineh adjourned the matter to 29 January, 25 February, and 27 February 2025 and ordered that Bello be remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre,” the statement read in part.

Source: Daily Sun

By Salif Atoj

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday said his administration was committed to empowering citizens to become agents of economic prosperity.

The President said this while inaugurating the “Earn from the Soil” campaign during the National Convergence for the Renewed Hope Agenda, at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja.

Tinubu, represented by Mr Abubakar Momoh, Minister of Regional Development, said the inauguration of the project Earn from the Soil was a powerful declaration that Nigerians were committed to turning non-oil resources into collective prosperity.

He said the project was a food security initiative capable of transforming subsistence farming into robust, export-driven economic opportunities.

“We are not seeking traditional aid from our partners but strategic support that transforms our economic ecosystem,” said the President.

He urged local and foreign investors to invest in the South-South region, which he said was open for business just as the whole of Nigeria was ready for it.

“We are creating an ecosystem of opportunity, innovation:and sustainable growth.

“Our young people and women in particular must embrace this opportunity to be self-reliant.

“This is a charge to the young people from the South-South: You are the backbone of the transformation that is about to begin here.


“Your energy, creativity, and determination will drive Nigeria’s economic revolution,” said Tinubu.

He added that the initiative could revolutionise the country’s agricultural landscape, ensuring national food security.

“In this wise, the vision of my administration is clear: By 2025, we will position Nigeria as a leading agricultural export nation.

“To this end, my administration will give necessary support to the implementation of the laudable project ‘Earn from the Soil’ to achieve its set objectives,” said the President.

Tinubu said the unveiling of the National Convergence for the Renewed Hope Agenda was also a strategic blueprint for national development with the South-South region at the forefront of economic renaissance.

“This region is very blessed in natural resources beyond oil and gas.

“Apart from its rich culture, the South-South is blessed with extraordinary human capacity and talents in many fields of human endeavors that have done our country proud globally.

“When we properly harness the human and material resources, this region has the potential to embody the transformative potential of Nigeria,” he said.

Earlier, Hon. Gift Johnbull, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, South-South, said the National Convergence for the Renewed Hope Agenda served as a convergence for dialogue, innovation and action.

“It echoes the spirit of national unity and collaboration, reaffirming our collective resolve to address pressing challenges and seize emerging opportunities,” she said.

“This convergence is a movement – a call to action for every individual here to play a part in shaping the future of not just the South-South Region alone, but Nigeria at large.

“To our investors and business leaders, this is your moment to recognise the South-South as a hub of untapped potential.

“Partner with us to unlock opportunities that benefit not just this region or the entire nation, but the whole of Africa and the world at large,” the Presidential aide said.

Source: PM News

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch, known for its dynamic leadership and vibrant national participation, has ushered in a new executive team following their swearing-in at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on December 9, 2024.

The ceremony, held at the branch’s Secretariat, marked the formal inauguration of the following officers:

• Chairman: Adeniyi Quadri, Esq.
• Vice Chairman: Chinenye Udeh, Esq.
• Secretary: Ayodeji Olabiwonnu, Esq.
• Assistant Secretary: Adejuwon Adedeji Ojo, Esq.
• Treasurer: Ganiyat Adisa, Esq.
• Financial Secretary: Florence Horace, Esq.
• Welfare Secretary: Folakemi Jegede
• Public Relations Officer: Kayode Agbedejobi, Esq.
• Social Secretary: Titilope Fagbote, Esq.
• Provost: Femi Dodo, Esq.

Following the swearing-in, the AGM resumed with the new Chairman, Adeniyi Quadri, Esq., performing his first official duty: presenting awards to the outgone executive members in recognition of their service.

The day culminated in the branch’s end-of-year party, transforming the venue into a lively scene of music and dancing. Members celebrated the close of a productive year and the promise of a new era under the leadership of the newly sworn-in executives.

The NBA Ikeja Branch continues to set the pace for excellence and innovation within the legal profession, as its new leadership charts the course for the years ahead.

By Jethro Ibileke

As of November 11, 2024, Edo State’s internal debt stood at over ₦1 trillion, while its external debt amounted to ₦282 billion, according to the State Accountant-General, Mr Julius Anelu.

The debts were left behind by the immediate past governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki. Governor Monday Okpebholo now has the burden to grapple with the humongous debts.

Obaseki, who governed Edo State for eight years, has thrown the state into a financial quagmire with over ₦1 trillion in internal debt and ₦282 billion in external debt.

Anelu made the revelation during a meeting with the State Assets Verification Committee.

Anelu attributed the increase in the state’s debt to the depreciation of the naira, stating that the loans were taken when the currency’s value was higher.

He noted that most of the loans were directed to the agencies for which they were secured.

The Accountant-General further informed the committee that his office had requested statements of accounts from all banks with which the state government had transactions to assist in their verification.

He pledged to provide the committee with all necessary documentation to facilitate their work.

Explaining the process of contract execution and payment, Anelu revealed that most payments were processed through commercial banks acting as sureties for contractors, who were financed through these banks.


He also mentioned that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning would appear before the committee to discuss budget implementation and performance since 2017.

Anelu assured the committee that he would cooperate fully, providing all relevant documents, including payment vouchers for transactions carried out under his tenure.

He emphasized his duty as a civil servant to comply with the committee’s request for transparency in state financial matters, including transactions handled through the office of the Secretary to the State Government.

Source: PM News

From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved the establishment of a new University, Abdulsalami Abubakar University of Agriculture and Climate Action, Mokwa, Niger State.

The new University becomes the 65th State University and 277th University in the Nigerian University System.

NUC Acting Executive Secretary, Chris Maiyaki, in a statement, on Monday, confirmed that the university proprietors have met all the necessary requirements hence the provisional licence for the establishment of the University.

Meanwhile, in a letter to the Governor, the NUC Acting Executive Secretary said, “I write, on behalf of NUC, to inform you that with effect from Monday 2nd December, 2024, Abdulsalami Abubakar University of Agriculture and Climate Action, Mokwa, Niger State, has been recognised as the 65th State University and 277th University in the Nigerian University System.

“This is consequent upon the receipt of the Niger State Government’s letter dated 2nd October, 2024, notifying the NUC of the establishment of the Abdulsalami Abubakar University of Agriculture and Climate Action, Mokwa, and the formal presentation of the Strategic documents, including the relevant gazetted University Law, Academic Brief, and Physical Master Plan.”


He pledged the support of NUC to the University, and also enjoin the governor and the State Government to take full advantage of the professional and technical advice that the Commission is statutorily required to provide State Governments on the establishment, sustainable funding, and operation of their universities.

He further confirmed that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), have notified of the establishment of the University.

Source: Daily Sun

May I seize this moment to congratulate the outgoing Oluwaseyi Olawumi led administration for the immense successes recorded during the lifetime of the administration. There is no doubt that even the blind can see the commendable rejuvenation (both structural and administrative) in the management of the NBA Ikeja Branch’s affairs in the last two years.

As the hour of transitioning into a new regime draws closer, it is my prayer that the incoming Branch Executive Committee led by my brother Adeniyi Quadri, shall consolidate on the success of the outgoing administration and surpass the expectations of most members of the Branch in terms of achievements and legacies.

I congratulate the soon to become brand new Chairman and all members of his Exco. God bless you all and bless your administration.

Adesina Adegbite FICMC, MCIArb
Immediate Past General Secretary, Nigerian Bar Association

Secretary General, West African Bar Association

Topic: Building Your Legal Brand: Integrating Business Development, Networking, and CV Optimization for Career and Practice Growth

The Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF), Lagos State Chapter, is set to hold an insightful Business Morning Discussion on Thursday, December 12, 2024. This event, designed to empower and inspire female lawyers, will take place at the 10th Floor, Plot 999c Danmole Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, starting at 10 AM.

The discussion will feature distinguished speakers who have successfully carved formidable brands in the legal profession. These thought leaders will share their expertise, practical strategies, and personal experiences to help attendees develop their legal careers and practices.

Distinguished Speakers:

• Keynote Speaker: Hajia Huwaila Muhammad Ibrahim
  • Chairperson, NBA Women Forum
• Guest Speaker: Mrs. Yewande Deji-Omotayo
  • State Lead, NBAWF Lagos State Chapter
• Speaker: Mrs. Folashade Alli, SAN
  • Principal Partner, Folashade Alli & Associates
• Speaker: Mrs. Funke Agbor
  • Senior Partner, Dentons ACAS Law
• Speaker: Dr. Michael Ogu
  • MCIPM, FITD, MCC
• Speaker: Mrs. Toyin Asada
  • Partner, Sunesis DLP

Chief Host:

• NBA Women Forum Lagos State Chapter

Host:

• Mrs. Yewande Deji-Omotayo

This end-of-year event promises to provide invaluable insights into branding, networking, and career optimization, ensuring female lawyers are equipped to achieve excellence in their professional journeys.

Key Highlights:

• Practical approaches to building a strong legal brand
• Techniques for effective business development
• Networking strategies for career growth
• Optimizing CVs for practice success

Attendance is free, but registration is compulsory.

Register Now: https://forms.gle/d79hB9h85NaGHV7KA

Mark your calendars and make it a date! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the best and connect with like-minded professionals.

See you there!

From Molly Kilete, Abuja

The Inspector-General of Police(IGP) , Kayode Egbetokun, have called for a continuous training of police personnel on administrative duties, musketry, weapon handling, combat crafts to boost their capacity, revitalize the Force and aligning it with contemporary global standards.

The IGP made this known at the ongoing training and skills development for police officers during the Passing out Parade of SPU personnel at the five-day retraining program held at the Peace Keeping Hall, FHQ, Abuja.

The comprehensive training programme encompassed essential topics such as the roles and principles of administration, the fundamental duties of administrators, and extensive practical exercises on basic weapon handling techniques, musketry, and combat craft essentials.

Egbetokun, while reiterating his directive to all Police Commands and Formations to implement similar training programs, said: “This involves conducting extensive training and retraining exercises, along with orientation on Policing Ethics and Professional Conduct, to promote behavioural and attitudinal changes among the ranks of the Force”.

Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO)ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, in a statement, said: “This initiative is part of the IGP’s broader vision to incorporate Policing Ethics and Professional Conduct as a continuous training subject for every police officer. The Inspector-General has mandated that each police officer participate in a course on this topic at least once annually, thereby, reaffirming his commitment to boosting the efficiency of the NPF in a rapidly evolving society, aiding the NPF in carrying out its duties seamlessly.

Currently, a substantial contingent of over 360 officers from the Nigeria Police Safe School Protection Squad are involved in ongoing specialized training at the Police Mobile Force Training Camp, Ende Hills, Nasarawa State. This training framework has been carefully formulated to equip them with the critical skills and knowledge needed for effective service in their designated roles. This training program serves as a testament to the commitment of the Nigerian Police Force to prioritizing the safety and security of all educational institutions across the country.

Source: Daily Sun

From Ndubuisi Orji and Jude Idu, Abuja

Five members of the House of Representatives, including Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, daughter of the former governor of Delta State, have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

She was elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to represent Ethiope federal constituency.

The other defectors, Tochukwu Okere (Imo) Donatus Mathew (Kaduna),  Bassey Akiba (Cross River) and Iyawe Esosa (Edo), were elected on the platform of the Labour Party (LP).

The lawmakers announced their defection in separate letters read by the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, at plenary, yesterday.

Abass, who announced the defections gleefully after reading  Ibori-Suenu’s defection notice implored other members of the PDP to toe her path.


The five defecting members, in their different letters, said their actions were motivated by “division” in their respective political parties’ platforms on which they were elected.

But the Minority Whip, Ali Isa, while citing Section 68 of the 1999 Constitution asked the Speaker to declare the seats of the five members vacant.

Isa wondered why anyone would be defecting to the APC “with the situation in the country.”

Similarly, the Deputy Minority Whip, George Ozodinobi, said it was not true that the LP was in crisis. He vowed that the party would be waiting for the lawmakers at the 2027 polls.

“I want to say that my party is not in any crisis. My party remains one. When people enter political parties without ideology, we see such defections. I  stand to tell them that this rotten carrot that is dangled before them to defect to this party that has brought hunger to this country; we are waiting as the party of the people.”

Meanwhile, LP has condemned their defections as “inconsistent with democratic norms” and in violation of Nigeria’s Constitution, particularly Section 68(g), which regulates defections by elected representatives.

In a statement by its spokesperson, Obiora Ifoh, the party vowed to take legal action against the defectors.

It noted that the lawmakers’ defections could only be legally justified in the event of a division within the party or a merger. It also called on Abbas to declare their seats vacant, arguing that their continued tenure was illegal.

“The defection, to us, is quite unfortunate and we condemn the action which is irrational, untenable, inconsistent and alien to all known norms for which democracy stands for.

“Section 68(g) of the 1999 constitution is emphatic on when to defect and what happens when a lawmaker sponsored by a political party decides to jump ship.

“The Constitution states (g) being a person whose election to the House was sponsored by a political party, he becomes a member of another political party before the expiration of the period for which that House was elected;

“Provided that his membership of the latter political party is not as a result of a division in the political party of which he was previously a member or of a merger of two or more political parties or factions by one of which he was previously sponsored;


“Though the Labour Party leadership is undaunted by the defection, it has however, elected not to allow it slide and has therefore instructed its legal team to commence the legal actions against the defectors.

“And to also commence the process of regaining our mandates in line with the 1999 constitution and 2022 Electoral Act as amended.

“The party will also approach the Speaker of the House of Representatives to declare vacant the seats occupied by these former Labour Party members in line with the House Rules.

“It is inappropriate and unacceptable for these lawmakers to continue to function as representatives of their constituencies illegally.

“The party has also decided to open a ‘Hall of Shame’ register for these lawmakers or any lawmaker or elected officer of the party who engages in fraudulent acts of defection without first dropping the mandate obtained under the ticket of the party.

Source: Daily Sun

Amid the defamation saga between Dele Farotimi and Afe Babalola, the activist’s book ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System’ has been listed as a bestseller on Amazon.

Daily Sun reports that Farotimi is currently in detention after his arrest following a petition by popular lawyer, Afe Babalola.

Babalola alleges that he was defamed in the book, insisting that Farotimi’s statements, also highlighted in media interviews and widely circulated online, were designed to destroy his reputation.

“All these statements are false and incorrect written deliberately to destroy my reputation. Dele Farotimi referred to me severally in his book as the Doyen of the legal profession,” he stated.

On Thursday evening, Farotimi’s book ascended to Amazon’s top rankings, as seen in the screenshot below.



The development means a remarkable surge in demand as Nigerians continue their quest in unravelling the controversial contents in Farotimi’s book.

Published in July 2024, ‘Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System’ is an examination of the systemic corruption in the nation’s judiciary, with examples of alleged misconduct involving legal luminaries.

The book, which had low sales before Farotimi’s arrest, recorded a rapid increase in demand after Nigerians’ interests were piqued following his subsequent detention.

Per reports, Farotimi was arraigned on Wednesday in Ekiti and his remand was ordered by a judge pending a bail hearing on December 10.

The case has elicited outcry among Nigerians, with many calling for his immediate release.S

Source: Daily Sun