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VP SHETTIMA URGES JUDICIARY TO STAND FIRM AGAINST BLACKMAIL, UPHOLD RULE OF LAW

CapitalTimesNews / 1 month

2 min read

Vice President Kashim Shettima has charged Nigeria’s judiciary to remain steadfast in dispensing justice without succumbing to blackmail or external pressures. Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), stated that Shettima made these remarks while declaring open the maiden Body of Benchers Annual Lecture in Abuja on Wednesday. In the statement, Nkwocha quoted the Vice President describing the judiciary as “an essential pillar of Nigeria’s sovereign existence,” noting that Shettima emphasized how “a nation is only as accountable, fair, and orderly as the people who make, enforce, and interpret its laws.” Shettima cautioned against any manipulation of justice to serve narrow interests. Nkwocha reported Shettima’s strong words: “Laws are not mere technicalities; they are the scaffolding of civilisation. Without laws, there is no order. Without order, there is no society.” The Vice President warned that each instance of delayed justice or compromised rulings weakens the nation’s foundations. Shettima particularly commended the judiciary’s handling of election petitions, with Nkwocha relaying his praise: “We recognize that the mandate entrusted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was affirmed by a judiciary that did not yield to the weight of vested interests.” The Vice President stressed that justice must serve even the most voiceless citizens. Nkwocha’s statement highlighted Shettima’s call for ethical practice, quoting him urging legal practitioners to “remain true to the ideals of honesty and fairness.” The Vice President described the newly launched Body of Benchers Law Report as evidence of commitment to legal excellence. The event saw participation from key judicial figures, including Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun who commended the initiative. Former Lagos Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) delivered the keynote, emphasizing professional discipline, while Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa praised the judiciary’s role as society’s last hope. Nkwocha noted that the gathering concluded with Shettima presenting the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee’s report, marking a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s justice system.

COURTS’ RULINGS AGAINST ILLEGAL SUSPENSION OF LEGISLATORS IN NIGERIA

CapitalTimesNews / 2 months

2 min read

The courts have consistently ruled against the illegal suspension of legislators in Nigeria, with several judgments declaring such suspensions as unconstitutional and a breach of the legislators’ rights. In a statement, Femi Falana SAN noted that the courts have been consistent in their rulings, citing several cases where the suspension of legislators was challenged and overturned. “The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is the height of legislative recklessness. The illegal suspension should be lifted without any further delay,” Falana said. Falana highlighted several cases, including the 2010 case of Hon Dino Melaye & 10 other legislators who were suspended for accusing the Dimeji Bankole-led House of Representative of wallowing in corruption. The Federal High Court declared the suspension of the legislators illegal and unconstitutional and ordered the payment of their withheld salaries and allowances. Other cases cited by Falana include the 2012 case of Honourable Rifkatu Danna, who was suspended by the Bauchi State House of Assembly for allegedly making uncomplimentary remarks. The Bauchi State High Court declared her suspension illegal and ordered the Bauchi State House of Assembly to reinstate her and pay her withheld salaries and allowances. Falana also noted that the Court of Appeal has consistently upheld the rights of legislators, citing the case of Honourable Abdulmumin Jibrin, who was suspended by the House of Representatives for 180 days. The Federal High Court nullified the suspension and ordered the payment of the withheld salaries and allowances of the legislator. “The official impunity of suspending legislators at the whims and caprices of leaders of the federal and state legislative houses must not be allowed to continue in Nigeria,” Falana said.

THE LEGAL PROFESSION: UPHOLDING DIGNITY AND RESPECT FOR THE OFFICE OF THE CHIEF JUDGE

CapitalTimesNews / 3 months
0
5 min read

By. Pelumi Olajengbesi Esq. The legal profession is rightly celebrated as the mother of all professions, a noble vocation that demands not only profound intellectual engagement but also a steadfast commitment to decorum, exemplary character, and noble conduct. The mantra instilled in us during our formative years in law school—“fit and proper”—serves as a perennial reminder of the standards we are sworn to uphold. As legal practitioners, we are not merely advocates; we are the custodians of justice, the stewards of integrity, and the torchbearers of the rule of law. Judges, particularly the Chief Judge of a state, occupy a position of unparalleled importance in this judicial ecosystem, serving not only as administrative and judicial leaders but also as symbols of impartiality, wisdom, and fairness. There is, however, a delicate boundary between constructive critique and baseless disparagement. It is imperative to recognize that unwarranted attacks on judicial figures, especially those in high-ranking positions, not only demean the individual but also risk undermining public confidence in the judiciary as an institution. Recently, in Akure, the capital of Ondo State, the Chief Judge dutifully fulfilled his statutory responsibilities amidst the ongoing electoral processes and formation of Local Government Councils. Acting upon a formal notification from the Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC), the Chief Judge constituted and administered the oath of office to the Chairman and members of the Local Government Election Petition Tribunal. This act, which exemplified both judicial propriety and patriotic commitment, was regrettably met with unwarranted criticism. One Adebayo Solagbade, Esq., a counsel whose employment status remains somewhat unclear, sought to trivialize the Chief Judge’s statutory role by invoking an outdated and repealed 21-year-old law that had been duly amended. This attempt, driven by either ignorance or an ill-conceived agenda, not only reflected a lack of legal depth but also betrayed a troubling disregard for professional courtesy and respect. What is most disheartening and worrisome is the brazenness with which this counsel approached the matter. For how long will we continue to condone intellectual rascality under the guise of public advocacy? How do we justify actions that seek to belittle the statutory and patriotic duties of a Chief Judge, reducing them to the subject of public ridicule? Despite the clear and detailed clarifications provided by the Attorney General of Ondo State and Mrs. Ajanaku, Esq., the Chief Registrar of the High Court, aimed at dispelling misinformation and fostering public trust, the lawyer remained obstinate in his erroneous assertions. His insistence that every legislative amendment must undergo public hearings revealed a profound misunderstanding of legislative processes, particularly in instances where the amendments addresses narrow or technical issues of law. As a senior legal practitioner in Ondo State and a proud member of the global legal community, I find these developments deeply troubling. My investigation revealed that the law cited by the junior counsel had been duly amended and the new amendment was signed into law by the Governor of Ondo State last year. This fact would have been readily apparent had the counsel exercised due diligence by conducting proper research or seek clarification from appropriate authorities such as the High Court or the Ministry of Justice. Such an inquiry could have been as simple as submitting a formal letter of inquiry to the relevant office. It would have been a different matter entirely if his requests had been ignored, but that was not the case here. This incident raises an important question: how should lawyers engage in the critique of judicial figures, particularly those in positions as revered as that of a Chief Judge? The answer lies in a steadfast commitment to truth, thorough research, and objective analysis. The more we desecrate the sanctity of the bench, the more we erode the public’s trust in the judiciary. Recklessly disseminating unfounded accusations, particularly on public platforms like social media, not only tarnishes the individual targeted but also brings disrepute to the legal profession as a whole. This conduct constitutes a blatant affront to the sanctity of our profession and must not be allowed to fester. In my considered opinion, if the counsel in question reconsiders his position, the most honorable course of action would be to tender a public apology to the Chief Judge and the Nigerian Bar Association at large. Such a gesture would not only be appropriate but also necessary for restoring the dignity of the profession. Should he fail to issue such an apology, the Attorney General of Ondo State, as the leader of the bar in the state, should initiate a formal complaint against the erring lawyer. Additionally, the local branch of the Nigerian Bar Association must act decisively to uphold the profession’s ethical standards. Should these measures prove inadequate, I am prepared to escalate the matter by filing a petition with the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) to address this act of infamous conduct. Preserving sanity, decorum, and respect within the legal profession is not a mere aspiration; it is an absolute necessity. As lawyers, we hold a privileged position in society, and with that privilege comes the responsibility to uphold the dignity and sanctity of our judicial institutions. Baseless attacks on judicial figures, especially those occupying esteemed offices like the Chief Judge, cause irreparable damage to public trust in our justice system. It is incumbent upon us to foster a culture of respect, integrity, and constructive engagement. By doing so, we not only honor the core values of the legal profession but also contribute to strengthening the pillars of justice and fairness in our society. Let us rise above pettiness and embrace our roles as paragons of professionalism, ensuring that our actions consistently reflect the noble ideals that define our esteemed vocation. Pelumi Olajengbesi is a Legal Practitioner and Managing Partner at Law Corridor.

ABUJA HIGH COURT STOPS EDO STATE GOVERNMENT OVER SUSPENSION OF CHAIRMEN

Nicolas Adekeye / 4 months

1 min read

An Abuja Federal high court has put on hold the suspension of Edo State local government chairmen and their deputies. The court ordered all parties involved in the action to maintain the status quo until the determination of the substantive application.The local government chairmen and their deputies had initiated an action in court following their suspension by the resolution of the Edo State house of assembly. The suspension attracted commentaries and legal opinions. Some commentators drew inspiration from the supreme court decision, which upheld the autonomy of the local govts and their Democratic right, while others think the house of assembly went beyond its powers. The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi also cautioned the house not to exceed its powers.

PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE AKPABIO URGES JUDICIARY TO PROMOTE PEACE AND UNITY

Nicolas Adekeye / 4 months

2 min read

Nigerian President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has urged the Nigerian Judiciary to strive towards peace and unity of Nigeria through fair administration of justice across the nation. He made this remark on Sunday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, at a special thanksgiving event held in honor of Hon. Justice Ntong Festus Ntong, on his elevation to the Court of Appeal. According to a statement by the Special Assistant to the President of the Senate on Media/Communication, Anietie Ekong, Senator Akpabio emphasized that injustice is the core problem of Nigeria, stating, “The core of the problem of Nigeria is injustice. Where there is injustice there can never be peace. May God continue to use our judicial officers as vessels for justice for this country and the global community.” Senator Akpabio commended Justice Ntong as a courageous and fearless Judge who has distinguished himself in the legal profession. He urged Justice Ntong to continue dispensing justice with the highest level of integrity and praised his contributions to the nation’s judicial system. Addressing Justice Ntong, Senator Akpabio said, “My Lord, you are a pride to Akwa Ibom State. You are a pride to the legal profession. And I urge you to continue to uphold this high ethical standard at the Court of Appeal as Akwa Ibom is very proud of you.” Senator Akpabio also expressed his desire to see more individuals from Akwa Ibom State elevated to the apex court, saying, “Justice Ntong, you are not going to be the only one. There will be many others after you so that Akwa Ibom State will continue to give justice to Nigeria.” Justice Inyang Okoro, Chairman of the occasion and Justice of the Supreme Court, lauded the Nigerian legislature for improving the salaries, allowances, and fringe benefits of Judicial office holders in Nigeria. He charged Justice Ntong to continue upholding the highest level of integrity in his new office. In his response, Justice Ntong expressed gratitude to his well-wishers, stating that their support has motivated him to continue his selfless and impeccable service to his people and the nation at large.

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VP SHETTIMA URGES JUDICIARY TO STAND FIRM AGAINST BLACKMAIL, UPHOLD RULE OF LAW

COURTS’ RULINGS AGAINST ILLEGAL SUSPENSION OF LEGISLATORS IN NIGERIA

THE LEGAL PROFESSION: UPHOLDING DIGNITY AND RESPECT FOR THE OFFICE OF THE CHIEF JUDGE

ABUJA HIGH COURT STOPS EDO STATE GOVERNMENT OVER SUSPENSION OF CHAIRMEN

PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE AKPABIO URGES JUDICIARY TO PROMOTE PEACE AND UNITY

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