Judiciary

UNPF Sensitizes Judges on VAPP 2020 Law

By Web News 509

Clear understanding of relevant laws and its provisions would aid proper enforcement of such laws in the dispensation of justice.

The Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Muntar Abimbola stated this at a 2-day sensitization seminar for judges and magistrates in Oyo State on the in-depth knowledge and implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law 2020 which was held on the 29th and 30th November, 2021 at the Kakanfo Inn and Conference Centre in Ibadan.

Justice Abimbola while acknowledging that the saying, “Justice delayed is justice denied” was true, noted that it was equally important not to rush the justice process in an unfair manner.

In a remark, the Director, Centre for Population and Reproductive Health, Professor Oladosu Ojengbede said the seminar was aimed at bringing the VAPP 2020 law into perspective for judges and magistrates in order to enhance their decision making when relevant cases are brought before them.

Our correspondent reports that the seminar which was held by the United Nations Population Fund Project in collaboration with the Oyo State Judiciary and the Centre for Population and Reproductive Health, CPHR will continue on the 12th and 13th of December for another batch of judges and magistrates in Oyo State.

Olumide Ogunbiyi

Judiciary

E-Justice: Ogun Launches Case Management and Scheduling System

By Web News 995

Ogun State government has launched a Case Management and Scheduling System as part of efforts to accelerate justice administration and dispensation.

Speaking at the ceremony held at Judiciary Complex, Abeokuta, the state governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, said the data-driven technology-based initiative would enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of justice administration.

The governor said the innovative platform would provide digital case management tools, towards ensuring electronic management of cases and curb delay in the judicial process.

In a remark, the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu said that the state’s judiciary had established and equipped a staff development centre for training of judges and other judicial staff in preparation for the digitisation of the judicial system.

Also, the state Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of the state, Mr. Akingbolahan Adeniran said the government was developing forensic laboratories at the Police Headquarters Eleweran and Tech Hub Abeokuta.

Bolanle Adesida

Judiciary

Court Adjourns Kanu’s Trial till Next Year

By Web News 644

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has adjourned the trial of the detained leader of the
Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, until the 19th of January, next year.

The adjournment came after Kanu’s team of lawyers, staged a protest over the refusal of operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, to allow some of them to gain access into the courtroom.

When the matter came up, Mazi Kanu told the court that Mr. Bruce Fein, who he said was handling a case for him in the US, was denied access to witness his trial and would not want the court to conduct the proceedings in the absence of his lawyers.

Meanwhile, counsel to the Federal government, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, who is also the Director of Public Prosecution, urged the court to proceed with the trial in the absence of Kanu’s lawyers.

Mr. Abubakar argued that Kanu’s lead counsel, Mr. Ifeanyi Ejiofor, who was initially inside the courtroom, walked out with his team shortly before the arrival of the judge, his pending application should be abandoned.

In a short ruling, though Justice Binta Nyako expressed displeasure over the conduct of Kanu’s lawyers and therefore adjourned the matter for trial.

Ifeoma Okpala

Judiciary

Breaking: Former Pensions’ Boss Maina, Bags 8-year imprisonment

By Web News 750

A Federal High Court in Abuja has found the ex-chairman of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team (PRTT), Abdulrasheed Maina, guilty of money laundering and other forms of corruption.

Justice Okon Abang, in a judgment on Monday, analysed evidence led by not the prosecution and defence in the case and found that the prosecution established its case against Maina.

Justice Abang the prosecution established that Maina stole over 2billion naira from pensioners’ funds, “most of whom have died without reaping the fruits of their labour”, the judge said.

The judge also found Maina guilty of purchasing a property in Abuja for which he paid with $1.4million cash, which is above the statutory threshold of 5million naira and without passing through a financial institution, describing it as a criminal offence.

Justice Abang also found Maina guilty of concealing his true identity as a signatory to accounts opened in two new generation banks by using the identity of his family members without their knowledge.

These accounts had cash deposits of N300million, N500million and 1.5billion, which the judge found that Maina stole from pensioners because he could not prove where he got the said funds from.

The judge noted that throughout Maina’s service as a civil servant his salary and emoluments could not have amounted to the monies in the accounts.

He noted that the prosecution produced essential evidence through witnesses called to prove beyond reasonable doubt that Maina is also guilty of money laundering to the tune of 171,099,000 naira.

The judge said the amount formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act.

“I find the defendant (Mr. Maina) guilty and convicted in counts 2, 6, 9, 3, 7 and 10,” the judge said.

The judge, who is currently listening to the plea for mercy (allocutus) from the defence lawyer, has pronounced on the sentence.

Culled from The Nation

Judiciary

1999 constitution needs replacement, not overhaul – Chief Olanipekun

By Web News 534

Renowned Lawyer and former President of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, Chief Wole Olanipekun has called for a new constitution for Nigeria in the interest of the coming generations of the country.

The renowned lawyer maintained that no amount of amendment of the 1999 constitution could guarantee its functionality and make it useful for the advancement of Nigeria’s progress.

Speaking at a lecture at Redeemers’ University Ede, Osun State on the topic titled “Beyond the Pandemic: Creating an Evolving New Normal”, Chief Olanipekun submitted that, no country in the world practised the Nigerian type of federalism, where the centre arrogates all powers to itself at the expense of the federating units.

Chief Olanipekun explained that in the old Western Region, the Chief Obafemi Awolowo/Akintola-led Administration could build the first television station in Africa, first stadium and many other significant infrastructures because the independence and 1963 constitution allowed for true federalism where the regional governments did not need to seek federal permission or license to do what was expected of them.

He pointed out an instance in the constitution where Section 214 provides that there shall be a police force for Nigeria, saying that such is grossly ineffective for a country with a landmass of over nine hundred thousand square kilometres, over three hundred ethnic groups, thirty-six states and a population of over two hundred and six million people.

The legal luminary noted further that even the proposed amendment of the 1999 constitution being handled by the National Assembly was carried out without due consultation with the people as the so-called zonal public hearing held in that regard was hastily conducted without giving voice to the people.

It is the position of the learned Senior Advocate of Nigeria that as the whole world attempted to evolve a new normal from the COVID-19 regime, getting a working constitution that would enhance the capacity of the federating units as it was in 1963 was the first step to getting the new normal.

He pointed out that apart from the total overhaul of the constitution, chapter two of the document which provides for the government’s responsibilities to the people should be made justiciable so that the people could truly hold the government accountable if it fails to act to the terms of the constitution.

The former NBA president who remarked that Nigeria youths have the capacity to transform the country if given the right environment as attested by the monumental impacts they were making in across the world, however, charged them not to lose hope or join the trend of destroying the country, but rather they should continue to ask questions and interrogate governments and public institutions in the interest of the country and their future.

Adenitan Akinola

Crime Judiciary

Court Sentences Auto Mechanic to Community Service for Cyber Fraud in Ibadan

By Web News 628



Justice Bayo Taiwo of the Oyo High Court sitting in Ibadan has sentenced an internet fraudster, Adebayo Saheed Modebola, to six months community service after finding him guilty of impersonation in a criminal charge filed against him by the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.


The 21-year-old, who claims to be an automobile mechanic met his waterloo on Tuesday, November 2, 2020 as the judge held that the Commission sustained the allegation of impersonating one Stephanie Cameron Caron to defraud people through the use of the internet.


The offence is contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State 2000.


Apart from the six months community service, the judge also ordered that the convict restitutes the sum of One Thousand United States Dollars ($1,000) to his victim through the Federal Government of Nigeria and the EFCC.

He also forfeits an iPhone 11 mobile phone to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Oluwakayode Banjo

Judiciary

Osun Assembly Puts Civil Service Commission Budget on Hold

By Web News 681

The Osun State House of Assembly has put the budget of Civil Service Commission on hold.

The Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Mr. Adebayo Olodo stated this during the budget defence by Ministries and Agencies of government in the state.

Mr. Olodo said the Budget of the Commission was put on hold as the commission did not appear before the House Committee for pre-budget meeting where grey areas in each Ministries and Agencies budget are first discussed.

He therefore, directed the Commission and other ministries and Agencies to ensure to attend the pre-budget meeting with the committee for necessary discussion before appearing for  budget defence.

Mr. Olodo also commended the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for ensuring peaceful resolution of all Chieftaincy tussle in the state.

He urged the Ministry not to relent in ensuring peace in all the local governments of the state.

Funmi Adekoya

Judiciary

Ogun NUJ: Court Strikes Out Petition Against CP, Olugbenro

By Web News 921

A Federal High court sitting in Abeokuta has struck out the Fundamental Human right suit filed by Mr. Ayokunle Ewuoso and Mr. Sina Oduntan against the Ogun state commissioner of Police and Mrs. Oluremi Olugbenro to challenge their arrest over the assault on female journalists at Iwe Iroyin, Oke Ilewo Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ in February this year. 

Ruling on the suits marked FHC/AB/FHR/33/22 and FHC/AB/FHR/34/21, the presiding Judge, Justice Remi Oguntoyinbo awarded the cost of forty thousand naira against each of the applicants as cost for bringing the second respondent, Mrs. Olugbenro to court. 

Counsel to the first and second applicants, Mr. Ayokunle Ewuosho and Mr. Sina Oduntan, Mr. Deji Eniseyin who was conspicuously absent in court having been served with counter affidavit had filed an application to discontinue the case claiming that the matter had been settled amicably.

Counsel to the second defendant, Mrs. Oluremi Olugbenro, Mr. Gani Ogunsanwo while reacting to the submission that the matter had been settled informed the court that he was not aware of any settlement and asked the court to award costs against each of the applicant if the court was inclined to grant the application for withdrawal.

Mr Ogunsanwo then pleaded that the judge should award fifty thousand naira as cost against each of the applicants for bringing his client to the court.

Counsel to the first defendant, Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Mr Adeyemi Olukoya had also informed the court that he was misled that the applicants had filed applications to discontinue the suit.

Justice Oguntoyinbo in her ruling on the matter, agreed that the applicants had the right to discontinue with the matter, but pointed out that they could not run away from the liabilities.

The Judge stated that the second respondent, (Mrs. Remi Olugbenro) having filed the necessary counter affidavits before the court had joined issues in law and was entitled to cost.

She then awarded the cost of forty thousand naira against Mr. Ayokunle Ewuoso, the first applicant and the sum of forty thousand naira against Mr. Sina Oduntan, the second applicant.

The third suit filed by Mr. Abiodun Taiwo, which was earlier slated for hearing on Tuesday, 19th October 2021 but could not be heard due to the public holiday was however adjourned till 2nd of December 2021 for hearing at the same Federal High Court, Abeokuta.

Wale Oluokun

Judiciary

Seven University Professors, 65 Others Elevated To SAN

By Web News 705

Seven university professors are among 72 lawyers elevated to the prestigious rank of the Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SANs, by the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee LPPC.

Their elevations were officially announced in Supreme Court by the acting Chief Registrar of the court who also doubles as the Secretary of the LPPC, Hajia Hajo Sarki-Bello.

The Professors are Bankole Akintoye Sodipo, Christian Chizundu Wigwe, Ajagbe Toriola Oyewo, Rasheed Jimoh Ijaodola, Oluyinka Osayame Omorogbe, Edoba Bright Omoregie and Abiola Olaitan Sanni.

Others are Dr Josephine Aladi Achor Agbonika, Dr Ibrahim Abdullahi and Dr Anthony Ojukwu Okechukwu who are from academic.

Sixty-five were elevated from advocate and they include George Audu Anuga, Simon Asember Lough. Eko Ejembi Eko, Ayo Abraham Olorunfemi, Reuben Okpanachi Atabo, John Ogwu Adele, Shaibu Enejoh Aruwa, Eyitayo Ayokunle Fatogun and Jacob Johnson Usman.

Others are Tajudeen Olaseni Oladoja, Salman Jawando Ayinla Adeola Rasaq Omotunde, Mathew Gwar Bukka, Mohammed Ndayako, Hassan Usman El-Yakub, Ishaq Magaji Hussaini, Samuel Atung and Mohammed Abdulhamid.

Also on the list are Kabiru Aliyu, Mohammed Abdulaziz Sani, Uche Sunday Awa, Uchenna Chinyere Ihediwa, Philip Ndubuisi Umeh Peter Aguigom Afuba, Felix Anayo Onuzulike, Benjamin Chukwudi Uzuegbu and Benjamin Nworah Osaka.

The statement also listed Ikenna Okoli, Edwin Sunday Chukwujekwu Obiora, Emeka Jude-Philip Obegolu Clement Onwuenwunor Chijioke Ogugua Precious Emeka Anthony Obinna Mogboh and Victor Ugwuezumba Opara.

Other new appointees are Kamasuode Wodu Charles Udoka Ihua-Maduenyi, Sammie Abiye Somiari, Ogaga Ovrawah, Charles Dumbiri Mekwunye, Ikeazor Ajovi Akaraiwe Marcellous Eguvwe Oru, Mark Okebuinor Mordi, Ehiogie West-Idahosa, Fredricks Ebos Itula, Ibrahim Idris Agbomere and Anthony Ademuyiwa Adeniyi

LPPC also elevated Bolarinwa Olotu, Adekola Olawale Fapohunda, Adekunle Akanbi Ojo, Olaotan Olusegun Ajose-Adeogun, Rotimi Sheriff Seriki, Olukayode Oluwole Adeluola, Adeyinka Moyosore Kotoye and Oluwasina Olanrewaju Ogungbade 65, Afolabi Fatai Kuti.

The rest are Francis Omotosho, Ayodeji Adedipe, Adeleke Olaniyi Agbola, James Akingbola Akinola, Muritala Oladimeji Abdul-Rasheed, Dauda Adekola Mustapha and Kazeem Adekunle Gbadamosi.

The statement indicated that the elevated lawyers would be inaugurated on December 8 by the Chief Justice of Nigeria CJN Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad.

Adewumi Faniran

Judiciary

Ogun Election Tribunal Bars Journalists From Proceedings

By Web News 658

Journalists have been barred from covering the proceedings of the Ogun State Local Government Election Petition Tribunal sitting at the State Magistrate Court, Isabo, Abeokuta.

The Chairman of one of the two tribunals, Otunba Rotimi Onafadeji who addressed the journalists stated that recording or covering of the proceedings is not allowed.

The Ogun State Chief Judge, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu had inaugurated the Election Petition Tribunal for the recently concluded Local Government elections in the Ogun State.

The Chief Judge during the inauguration said the effort was to allow opposition parties to seek redress over the outcome of the election.

The two panels of the Ogun State Local Government Election Petition Tribunal Panel one include Mr. Akintunde Oyeyinka, chairman, while Mr. Lukman Abdullahi and Mrs. Olayinka Kukoyi are members.

The second panel members include Otunba Rotimi Onafadeji appointed as the Chairman while Mr. Rabiu Ibrahim and Mrs. Adedoyin Alaba are the members.

Wale Oluokun

Judiciary

We Will Continue To Prioritise Welfare Of Judiciary- Makinde

By Web News 793

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has swore-in four judges of the Oyo State High Court of Justice, saying that the process of their appointments was based on merit.

The governor, while speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the newly-appointed Judges of the High Court of Justice of Oyo State and the Customary Court of Appeal of Oyo State, held at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, urged them to contribute immensely to the Judiciary.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, quotes the governor as equally vowing that the state government will continue to prioritise the welfare of the members of the Judiciary.

The judges of the High Court of Justice, include Mrs. Olusola Adebisi Adetujoye, Beatrice Folabimpe Segun-Olakojo, Prof. Elijah Taiwo Adewale and Dr. Kareem Adeyimika Adedokun, while Mrs. Olubukola Omolayo Ajadi was sworn-in as a judge of the Customary Court of Appeal.

Iyabo Adebisi

Judiciary

2021/2022 Legal Year: Bishop Akinfenwa Advises Legal Profession To Exhibit Godly Character

By Web News 1050

The Bishop of Ibadan Diocese, Anglican Communion, Most Reverend Joseph Akinfenwa has admonished the bar and the bench, to always have the fear of God in all their dealings as the last hope of the masses. 

Most Reverend Akinfenwa gave the advice while speaking at the Thanksgiving service to mark the beginning of 2021/2022 Legal Year held at St. James Cathedral, Oke Bola, Ibadan.

The Cleric said all those in the profession must endeavour to put more efforts to strengthen the Judiciary 

Most Reverend Akinfenwa urged the Judiciary to always ask God for wisdom in order to excel in the profession. 

While Speaking, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state, represented by Secretary to the state government, Mrs Olubamiwo Adeosun said it was important for the judiciary to take the government to greater heights. 

Governor Makinde commended the judiciary for working towards the acceleration of the development of the state

Present at the service were the Chief Judge of Oyo state, Justice Munta Abimbola and the first female senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, Mrs. Folake Solanke.

The Bishop of Ibadan Diocese,  Anglican Communion, Most Reverend Joseph Akinfenwa has admonished those in the legal profession to always have the fear of God in all their dealings as they remain the last hope of the masses. 

Most Reverend Akinfenwa gave the advice while speaking at the Thanksgiving service to mark the beginning of 2021/2022 Legal Year held at St. James Cathedral, Oke Bola, Ibadan.

The Cleric said all those in the profession must endeavour to put more effort to strengthen the Judiciary. 

Most Reverend Akinfenwa urged the Judiciary to always ask God for wisdom in order to excel in the profession. 

While Speaking, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state, represented by Secretary to the state government, Mrs Olubamiwo Adeosun said it was important for the judiciary to take the government to greater heights. 

Governor Makinde commended the judiciary for working towards the acceleration of development of the state.

Present at the service were the Chief Judge of Oyo state, Justice Munta Abimbola, Oyo state Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Professor Oyelowo Oyewo, the first female senior Advocate of Nigeria,  SAN, Mrs. Folake Solanke and other notable people in the bar and bench.

Olaolu Fawole 

Judiciary

Court Stops NUJ Delegates Conference, Election in Abia

By Web News 794

The National Industrial Court of Nigeria sitting in the Ibadan has restrained the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ from going ahead with their election scheduled to hold in Umuahia, Abia State, from 3rd to 5th October 2021.

In the suit with number NICN/IB/61/2021 filed by Mr. Soji Amosu and Mr. Ayokunle Ewuoso, the Chairman and Secretary respectively of Ogun State Council of NUJ, Justice Opeloye Ogunbowale granted the three prayers of the applicants.

The respondents in the case include the President of NUJ, Chris Isiguzo; National Secretary, Shuaibu Leman; Credentials Committee Chairman, Mr. Garba Muhammed; his secretary, Victor Ndukwe; among others.

The applicants prayed for the following:

“An order of interim injunction restraining the respondents jointly and severally by themselves, their agents, privies, officers or any persons however described from performing aiding and or executing any act for the purposes of conducting any election into the national offices of the 10th respondents (NUJ) pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

“An order of interim injunction restraining the respondents jointly and severally their privies, servants or agents from interfering with the office of the chairman and Secretary of the Ogun state council of Nigeria Union of Journalists presently being occupied by the applicants, as recognised by the judgement of this court delivered by Honorable Justice J. D Peters, attached as exhibit A in the affidavit in support of this application as it relates to the national delegate conference of the 10th respondents coming up between the 3rd to 5th of October, 2021 pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice already filed in this suit.

“An order of the Honourable Court suspending all actions, proceedings, steps, processes relating to national delegates conference of the 10th respondents to come up between the 3rd to 5th of October, 2021, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice already filed in this suit.”

The court, upon reading the affidavit of urgency and affidavit in support of the motion exparte, ordered as follows:

“An order of interim injunction restraining the respondents, jointly and severally by themselves, their agents, privies, officers or any person however described from performing, aiding and or executing any act for the purposes of conducting any election into the national offices of the 10th respondents, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice in this case

“An order of interim injunction restraining the respondents jointly and severally, their privies, servants or agents from interfering with the offices of the chairman and Secretary of the Ogun state council of Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ, presently being occupied by the applicant has recognised by the judgement of this court delivered by the horrible justice J.D Peters, (Exhibit A) as it relate to the national delegates conference of the 10th Respondents coming up between the 3rd and the 5th of October 2021 pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice in this case.

“An order for suspension of all actions, proceedings, steps and processes relating to the national delegate conference of the 10th respondents fixed to come up between the 3rd and 5th of October 2021 pending the hearing and determination of this motion on notice in this case.”

The case was further adjourned to October 26th, 2021 for hearing of motion on notice.

Judiciary

OYHA Confirms Appointment Of Justice Mashud Abass As Appeal Court President

By Web News 1288

The Oyo State House of Assembly, OYHA, has confirmed Justice Mashud Abass of the Oyo State High Court as the new President of the Customary Court of Appeal.

The confirmation followed a letter forwarded by the state’s governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde and read by the Speaker, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin during the plenary.

Justice Mashud Abass will replace Justice Aderonke Aderemi who is retiring from the active service.

The nomination of Justice Abass was sequel to his recommendation to the National Judicial Council, NJC, by the Oyo State Judicial Service Commission according to the governor.

The letter reads, “Consequent upon the request, the National Judicial Council has recommended Honourable Justice Moshood Akintunde Akinfemi Abass as the new President of Oyo State Customary Court of Appeal. It is in view of this, that I am requesting the Speaker and other lawmakers to kindly deliberate and confirm his appointment as requested.”

Shortly after his confirmation, Justice Abass thanked the governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, Speaker, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin, and the entire lawmakers for the opportunity. 

He assured to give his best in the discharge of his duties when eventually sworn-in.

Justice Abass, who was born over 60 years ago, was appointed as a judge of the state High Court in 2001 after he was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1983.

He has attended several workshops and seminars within and outside the country. He is a Fellow, Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators.

Mosope Kehinde

Judiciary

Oyo State Government Seeks To Join VAT Appeal Suit

By Web News 695

Oyo State Government wants the Court of Appeal sitting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State for joinder in the suit instituted by the Rivers State Government against the Attorney-General of the Federation in respect to the bid by the state to take over the collection of the Value Added Tax, VAT, from the federal government.

The suit, instituted by the Attorney-General of Oyo State, Professor Oyelowo Oyewo is seeking an order of the Appellate Court to enable Oyo State to join the suit as an interested party.

In the suit, the government of Oyo State is seeking two orders, viz: an order of the Honourable Court joining the Attorney-General of Oyo State as a respondent on the appeal with suit number FHC/PH/CS/149/2020 and appeal number CA/PH/282/2021, and any other order the Court may deem fit.

According to the Attorney-General of Oyo State, the government of Oyo State was unaware of the suit between the Attorney-General of Rivers State and the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, at the Federal High Court until the judgment was delivered.

Other grounds upon which the application was based include, that the decision of the Appellate Court will affect the collection of VAT by the government of Oyo State is one of the states which the judgment of the lower court recognised as entitled to collect VAT within its territorial jurisdiction.

The grounds claimed by the Oyo State government include that: “The Applicant is a necessary party to this suit being a party who will be bound by the judgment of this Honourable Court in this Appeal.

In a motion on notice also attached to the proceedings already filed before the court, Oyo State said it relied on eight grounds and declared that the state is a necessary party to be joined since it has sufficient interest in the outcome of the appeal.

The state further argued that after going through its processes, the Appellate Court will find that the application is necessary and that it has sufficient interest in the determination of the appeal as one of the states of the Federation.

It quoted several legal authorities and concluded thus: “We, therefore, urge the honourable court to resolve the sole issue raised in this application in favour of the Applicant and hold that the Applicant is a proper, desirable and necessary party to be joined in this appeal.

“In conclusion, we humbly urge your Lordships to grant this application in the interest of justice and effective determination of the issues before the Court”.

Iyabo Adebisi

Judiciary

Governor Makinde Seeks Assembly Confirmation Of Justice Abbas As Appeal Court President

By Web News 1185

The Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde has forwarded the name of Hon. Justice Moshood Abass to the State House of Assembly for confirmation as the new President, Customary Court of Appeal in the State.

In the letter read by the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, the Governor said the decision followed the retirement of the immediate past President Oyo State Customary Court of Appeal, Hon Justice Aderonke Aderemi on the 4th of January, 2021.

The nomination of Hon Justice Moshood Abass was sequel to his recommendation to the National Judicial Council, NJC by the Oyo State Judicial Service Commission.

The Speaker said date and time for the screening of Honourable Justice Moshood Akintunde Akinfemi Abass will be announced by the House and communicated accordingly.

Mosope Kehinde

Judiciary

Court Bars EFCC From Retrying Orji Uzor Kalu

By Web News 543

The Federal High Court has prohibited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission from retrying former Abia Governor, Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu.

Justice Inyang Ekwo gave the order while delivering judgment in an application filed by the former governor seeking an order of court prohibiting the EFCC from retrying him on a charge for which he had already been tried and convicted.
The judge said: “An order is hereby made prohibiting the Federal Government through the EFCC from retryiing the applicant (Kalu) on charge no. FHC/ABJ/CR/56/2007
since there was no order in the judgment of the Supreme Court for the retrial of Kalu.

Nigerian Observer

Judiciary

Prophet Sotitobire: Appeal Court Reserves Ruling On Missing Child Case

By Web News 1855

The court of appeal sitting in Akure has reserved judgement in the appeal of the founder of Sotitobire Praising Chapel Akure, Prophet Babatunde Alfa.

Prophet Alfa’s appeal is seeking to quash his life sentence conviction by an Ondo State High Court in Akure over the disappearance of one-year-old Gold Kolawole in his Church in 2019.

The presiding Justice, Rita Nosakhare Pemu after listening to all the arguments of both parties reserved judgement to a date that would be communicated to all parties.

Dupe Isename

Judiciary

Ogun JUSUN Calls Off 2-Month Old Industrial Action

By Web News 803

Ogun State Chapter of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, JUSUN, has suspended the industrial action embarked upon over two months ago over cut in salary.

The Chairman of the Union, Comrade Tajudeen Edun, announced that there were series of meetings before the issue was finally resolved. 

He said the union had reached an agreement with the government and the union will resume work.

Comrade Edun said the state government had accepted the union’s demand and promised that members will partner the government in achieving greater heights.

The union chairman addressed the newsmen flanked by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi and the Head of Service, Alhaja Selimot Otun.

Wale Oluokun

Judiciary

Man Bags 2 Years Imprisonment For Calling Police Thieves

By Web News 526

A 25-year-old Bala Hassan in Adamawa State has been sentenced to two years in prison for allegedly referring to policemen as thieves.

The Yola Criminal Area Court 2 on Tuesday handed the sentence to him after convicting him for the offence.

Bala Hassan was earlier brought before the court presided by Honourable Nuhu Garta by the State Commissioner of Police, Adamu Alhaji, for allegedly saying that all police officers attached to the Jimeta Police Division were thieves.

According to the First Information Report (FIR) tendered in court by Inspector Danjuma Hamidu, Bala had said he would rather die than join the Nigeria Police Force because policemen are criminals.

Court papers indicate that Bala was arrested in Yola on Monday during a crime prevention patrol led by Inspector Ishaya Buba of Jimeta Police Division and charged with being in possession of dry leaves suspected to be indian hemp.

The Police said he was unable to give satisfactory account of himself and that when brought to the Divisional headquarters for further investigation, he rained curses on the police, saying all of them are nothing but thieves.

In court on Tuesday, Bala admitted dubbing policemen thieves, following which the prosecutor, Inspector Danjuma Hamidu, applied for summary trial of the defendant.

Ruling, Hon Nuhu Musa Garta sentenced Bala to two years in prison but gave him an option of a N50, 000 fine.

EverydayNews

Judiciary

Court Orders FG, DSS To Pay Igboho 20 Billion In Damages

By Web News 1258

An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan has ordered the Federal Government, the Director General, Department of State Security, DSS, and the DSS Director in Oyo State to pay 20 billion naira exceptional and aggravated damage over the unlawful invasion of the residence of Sunday Adeyemo “Igboho” in Ibadan.

The court also granted all the relief prayed for, before the Oyo State High Court by the Yoruba nation agitator before the court.

Justice Ladiran Akintola in his 90 minutes judgment equally restrained the Federal Government, the DSS, their agents, privies or otherwise from further harassing, molesting or arresting him.

The judge also awarded 2 million naira cost against the Federal Government, DG DSS and the DSS Director in Oyo State.

Delivering the judgment, Justice Akintola struck out the preliminary objection filed by the 2nd and 3rd respondents were not signed and or dated when it was filed before the court.

Justice Akintola emphasized that the failure to date and sign the objection thereby made it defective and ineffective.

On whether the High Court has the jurisdiction to hear the case, Justice Akintola said it had been established by both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court that that both the Federal High Court and State High Court have competent jurisdiction especially in a Fundamental Rights suit which occurred within the jurisdiction of both courts.

He stressed that the siege laid on the Sunday Igboho’s residence on July 31, this year, the manner of the invasion which was not known to law, no court order of any criminal offences, or warrant of arrest which was never denied by the defendants amounted to violation of Sunday Igboho’s fundamental rights.

Condemning the action of the respondents, Justice Akintola frowned at the trauma inflicted on Sunday Igboho, residents and neighbours with the invasion of his house in the wee hours of the night, as there was no evidence that Nigeria was at war which warranted such action.

Justice Akintola described the invasion of Sunday Igboho’s residence as highly condemnable, crude display of law, unprofessional, overzealous and reckless.

Resolving all the issues in the suit in favour of Sunday Adeyemo Igboho, Justice Akintola ruled that the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Director General DSS and the DSS Director in Oyo state should pay 20 billion naira as exceptional and aggravated cost for the illegal invasion and wanton destruction of his property.

Funmilola Obagbayegun

Judiciary

Law Enforcement Agents Aiding Human Traffickers- House of Rep. Committee Chair, Akande-Sadipe

By Web News 862


The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Diaspora, Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe has berated the Nigerian law enforcement agencies, the Police Force and the weak Judicial system, which in turn has indirectly aided the high level of impunity by human trafficking and forced labour offenders in Nigeria.
The Oluyole Federal Constituency representative said this in her keynote address during a joint-capacity building retreat held for House of Representatives members of the committee on Diaspora, Foreign Affairs and Human rights in Abuja.
She noted that Nigerian courts and the Police Force continue to penalize traffickers with fines alone, or offering the option to pay a fine instead of serving time in the correctional centres across the nation.
“This is why it is important for us as law makers to truly understand various dimensions and ramifications for human trafficking as well as its effects on our society and on humanity, so that we can on our own part, do what we can to put an end to it”, she said.
Akande Sadipe who revealed that the estimated number of Nigerian citizens living abroad, is between 15 to 17 Million, called on the Federal Government to effectively engage the large pool of Nigerians in the diaspora to promote national development.

Adedayo Adelowo

Judiciary

Ogun VAT Bill 2021 Scales First, Second Reading

By Web News 543

The proposed bill on the Ogun State Value Added Tax Law, 2021 has scaled first and second readings. 

Lawmakers while extensively deliberating on the bill, unanimously agreed that the bill, when operational, would accord the State its rightful position as a viable federating unit amongst the comity of States generating worthy financial returns in the country.

In their Contribition, Mr Olakunle Sobukanla, Mr. Ganiyu Oyedeji, and Mr. Adegoke Adeyanju stressed the need for the enactment of the proposed law in the State to further improve revenue accruable to the State, with a view to ensuring a seamless funding of more developmental projects.

Other lawmakers including Mr. Kemi Oduwole, Mr. Oludaisi Elemide, and Mrs. Atinuke Bello, noted that the bill was meant to improve on the State’s financial status through tax revenue generation.

In his response, the Speaker of the house, Mr. Oluomo emphasized that the leading position of the Ogun State among the comity of States in the area of revenue generation must be complemented with equal remittance of allocation on monthly basis from the Federation account.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

Judiciary

Masquerade Custodian, Three Others Remanded Over Murder

By Web News 660

An Osun State High Court sitting in Osogbo has remanded masquerade custodian, Chief Kayode Esuleke, his son, Ifasola Esuleke and two others over the alleged murder of a member of Kamarudeen Mosque Moshood Salawudeen in a Mosque. 

The defendants, Chief Kayode Esuleke, Kola Adeosun, Akeem Idowu and Ifasola Esuleke were arraigned in the court on thirteen counts of murder, attempted murder, malicious damage, assault, breach of public peace and engaging in a public fight.

However, they all pleaded not guilty to the alleged offenses pressed against them. 

Justice Ayo Oyebiyi who presided over the matter ordered that they should be remanded in Ilesha Correctional Facility and adjourned the matter till September 21st, 2021 for consideration of bail. 

Radio Nigeria recalls that Masquerade followers and Muslim worshipers clashed at Kamarudeen mosques on June 27th 2021 where one person was killed, many were injured and properties destroyed. 

Akinola Adenitan

Judiciary

66-Year-Old Woman Remanded for Stealing Baby

By Web News 660

A 66-year-old grandmother, Mrs. Adebisi Balogun and 60-year-old man, Mr. Adegboye Awoniyi have been remanded in Ilesha Correctional Facility for allegedly stealing a 4-month-old baby in Osun State. 

The police dragged the defendants before an Osogbo Magistrate Court on three counts of conspiracy, stealing and breach of peace. 

Police prosecutor, Inspector Adeoye Kayode said the suspects in April 2021 at Ayetoro Area, Osogbo conspired to steal a child thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section 516 of Criminal Code CAP 34 Vol. Il Laws of Osun State of Nigeria 2002.

He also said the woman stole a 4-month-old baby and also conducted herself in a manner that caused a breach of peace on August 26th 2021 at Ayetoro area of Osogbo. 

Mrs. Adebisi pleaded not guilty to conspiracy but pleaded guilty to stealing of a child and breach of peace, while the man, Adegboye pleaded not guilty to the first count which was the only charge against him.

Counsel to the two defendants, Mr. Nagite Okobe and Mr M. A Akinwande pleaded with the court to grant bail to the two accused persons in the most liberal terms. 

However, the police opposed the bail, saying, the two accused persons will jump bail if they are granted bail and the baby that was stolen is currently in an orphanage home in Osogbo.” 

The presiding magistrate, Mrs. A O Daramola ordered that they should be remanded in Ilesha Correctional Facility. 

She adjourned the case until September 21st, 2021 for an accelerated hearing of the matter. 

Akinola Adenitan