My Blog

Category: Governance

  • Stay in DSS custody, court tells Nnamdi Kanu

    Stay in DSS custody, court tells Nnamdi Kanu

    The Biafra nation agitator, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, loses bid for restoration of his revoked bail and the removal from the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) to a house arrest or prison custody.

    Ruling on the request, Justice Binta Nyako held that she found as a fact that Kanu jumped the bail earlier granted him and escaped out of the country.

    The Judge also held that the sureties who stood for him in the earlier bail had applied to be discharged and had been discharged on the ground that they could not locate Kanu and did not know his whereabouts.

    Therefore, she delared the application not meritorious and dismissed it.

    However, the court proffered that the detained IPOB leader had Kanu’s only option is to approach the Court of Appeal to exercise his right of appeal.

    On the argument that by Kanu’s lead Counsel that Supreme Court held that the earlier bail granted him ought not to have been revoked, the court said that it perused the Supreme Court judgment copy and did not see the claim of the lawyer.

    At the time of this report, Kanu shouting on top of his voice is insisting not to stand trial before any court in Nigeria.

    He is claiming that any attempt to put him on trial would amount to a breach of Nigeria’s Constitution and the international laws.

    Details later.

  • Court refuses terrorists negotiator, Tukur Mamu’s request for transfer to Kuje Prison

    Court refuses terrorists negotiator, Tukur Mamu’s request for transfer to Kuje Prison

    Mohammed Tukur Mamu, a terrorist negotiator’s bid to be transfered from the custody of the Department of the State Service, DSS to Kuje Prison in Abuja has been refused by the federal high court, Abuja.

    Mamu was arrested at the Aminu Kano International Airport upon his arrival from Egypt on September 6, 2022, over his alleged relationship with the terrorists who attacked the Abuja-Kaduna train on March 28, 2022.

    Consequently, DSS is trying Mamu on 10 counts charge of terrorism financing, among others, but he pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    He has been at the custody of the prosecution agency following the refusal of the Court to admit him to bail.

    In the ruling, the court said that the federal government had raised the issues of incessant jail breaks in prisons as a major ground to oppose the request for transfer to Kuje.

    According to the judge, since the averments were not challenged by Mamu, they are deemed to be true facts and facts admitted need no further proof.

    The judge subsequently ordered Mamu to remain in DSS custody throughout his trial in the criminal charges against him.

    Justice Ekwo, however, affirmed his earlier order that the terrorist negotiator be allowed to access his personal physician for medical treatment with the supervision of the DSS.

    Mamu, through his lawyer, Abdul Mohammed, SAN, had on April 29, alleged that the order of the court made on December 19, 2023, that he be allowed access to his personal physician for medical treatment was not complied with by the DSS.

    In his motion on notice argued by Mohammed, the terrorist negotiator claimed that he was allowed access to the physician once during which a report of comprehensive medical examination to be carried out on him was submitted to the DSS.

    Since the submission of the report, Mamu alleged that the physician had not been allowed to access him and that he needed urgent surgical operations in any hospital in the country.

    The defendant further claimed that his health had since deteriorated and that he may lose his life any moment if he was not moved out of DSS custody to Kuje Prison.

    He promised regular attendance in court, adding that he can only stand trial when alive.

  • Rivers Executive, Judiciary Tussle Akin To Anarchy, Worrisome – Group Warns …calls NJC to beam it’s search light on Justice C.N. Wali

    Rivers Executive, Judiciary Tussle Akin To Anarchy, Worrisome – Group Warns …calls NJC to beam it’s search light on Justice C.N. Wali

    By Daniel Okejeme

    Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness has stated that the rift between the Rivers State Executive and its Legislative counterpart is becoming worrisome, and the actions of the chief executive officer is akin to anarchy.

    The group through it’s Director General, Dr Gabriel Nwambu, said it cannot allow a threat to the hard-earned democracy to thrive in Nigeria where we operate a constitutional democracy, where the rule of law stipulating the supremacy and predominance of the law should be practiced to the later.

    The group said that they are talking about a purported assembly where 3 persons parade themselves as law makers for an entire state contradicting clearly the provisions of section 96(1) as amendment which defines one-third (1/3) as what constitutes a quorum.

    They maintained that if for any reason the Assembly cannot form quorum, the Assembly shall adjourn, adding that it is never the intendant of those who crafted the 1999 Constitution that only 3 lawmakers shall be enacting laws for the people.

    Furthermore, the group faulted the legislative sitting inside the government house as not consistent with the principles of Separation of Power.

    They, therefore, urge the appropriate authorities to investigate the allegations that
    chief executive is spending Rivers State funds outside the realm of appropriation thoroughly and take appropriate actions to safeguard the interests of the citizens.

    Also, they call on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to beam it’s search light on Justice C.N. Wali of the Rivers State High Court for issuing an ex-parte order contradicting section 272(3) of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

    They insisted that the order made by Justice C.N. Wali amounts to Forum Shopping, Abuse of Court Process and tantamount to self-help.

    According to them, Wali’s action violated a subsisting Judgement made by Justice J.K. Omotosho stating that the Assembly led by Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule is the Assembly that is recognized by law and certified by the Court.

    They call on all citizens, civil society organizations, and leaders of the Bar and the Bench to join in defending the rule of law, upholding democratic tenets and principles, and safeguarding our constitutionally guaranteed rights.

    “We will take all necessary steps to oppose these desecrations of our courts and the noble profession of law. Together, we can ensure that justice prevails and the rights of the people in Rivers State are protected.”

  • Energy Challenge: Tinubu appoints Team to establish “Evergreen City”

    In his determination to walk the talk President Bola Tinubu has given the global clamour for energy diversification a boost by assigning energy consultants, INFRACORP the duty of developing Nigeria’s pioneer alternative energy city; the “EvergreenCity.”

    Fleshing up the details on this novel energy concept, Presidential media aid, Ajuri Ngelale stated that InfraCorp, owned by former General Electric top gun, Lazarus Angbazo shall be the “Lead Arranger and Developer of the EvergreenCity”.

    President Tinubu also approved the establishment of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen, into which he has empanelled a select team of alternative energy experts that shall ensure the successful implementation of the project.

    In a press statement, Chief Ngelale disclosed that the steering committee shall be chaired by the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, while the Secretariat shall be headed by Lolade Abiola of the UN SE4ALL

    Ngelale listed thirteen other green energy gurus as members of the steering committee. Promiment among them is Mr. Suleiman Yusuf, Managing Director and CEO of Blue Camel Energy, a leading player in Nigeria’s green energy ecosystem.

    Other members of the committee are Lazarus Angbazo (CEO, InfraCorp), Salisu Dahiru (CEO, NCCC), Aminu Umar-Sadiq (CEO, NSIA), Khalil Halilu (CEO, NASENI), Abba Abubabkar Aliyu (CEO, REA), Fatima Shinkafi (CEO, SMDF), Uzoma Nwagba (CEO, CrediCorp), Bala Bello (Deputy Governor, CBN), Teni Majekodunmi (NCCC), Nana Maidugu (NSIA), Michael Ivenso (NCCC), and Chidi Ajaere (Jet EV).

    President Tinubu also approved the terms of reference for the work of the Committee to include:
    (1) Selection of partners/consultants to undertake critical development activities, including project design, environmental impact assessments, feasibility studies, financial modelling, and market engagement.

    (2) Raising private funding for the development of the city and constituent projects.

    (3) Coordinating with partners, development institutions, and other providers of capital and technical assistance.

    (4) Reporting to the Supervisory Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen

  • Client’s Death: Court Convicts Lagos Cosmetic Surgeon

    Client’s Death: Court Convicts Lagos Cosmetic Surgeon

    A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has convicted a medical doctor and founder of MedContour Services Ltd., Dr. Anuoluwapo Adepoju, over a failed plastic surgery that resulted in the death of one Nneka Onwuzuligbo in 2020.

    The conviction was disclosed by a former Director-General of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Babatunde Irukera, on Friday.

    Irukera was the one who instituted the case against the convict.

    In his tweet, Irukera, tweeting as #TundeIrukera, wrote, “Today is a day of pride for me that I personally prosecuted Anu Adepoju and her medical practice. Though I’ve left public service, the case has ended in a conviction, strengthening the accountability framework for all in society, professionals, or otherwise.

    “This is how society should work and grow.

    “Dr. Anu Adepoju and her medical practice convicted in all 5 counts charged by FCCPC. The wheel of justice may grind slowly, but we must see it through. What we need are enforced with audacity and the will to prosecute competently and diligently. Good day for consumers of professional services.”

    Adepoju was arraigned in 2020 on five counts before Justice Mohammed.

  • NJC Bars 3 Judges From Elevation …issues warning letter to them

    NJC Bars 3 Judges From Elevation …issues warning letter to them

    The National Judicial Council (NJC) has barred three judges from elevation for two to three years over a series of offenses and also issued warning letters to them.

    The decision followed resolutions reached at the NJC’s 105th plenary meeting on May 15 and 16, 2024.

    Therefore, the chairman of the council, Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, had issued warning letters to Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court and Justice GB Brikins-Okolosi of the Delta State High Court.

    In a statement, NJC’s Director of Information, Soji Oye, said Justice Ekwo was warned for abusing his discretionary power by improperly granting an ex parte order in the case between Juliet Ebere Nwadi Gbaka & 2 Ors. vs. Seplat Energy Plc & 12 Ors.

    The NJC therefore barred Justice Ekwo from elevation to a higher bench for two years.

    Similarly, Justice GB Brikins-Okolosi was warned for failing to deliver a judgment within the stipulated period in the case of Joseph AneneOkafor vs. Skye Bank, despite the parties having filed and adopted their final written addresses.

    Consequently, Justice Brikins-Okolosi was prohibited from elevation to a higher bench for three years.

    Furthermore, the NJC cautioned Justice Amina Shehu of the Yobe State High Court for issuing a writ of possession conferring title on the defendant in a case without any subsisting judgment from any court to justify the issuance of the writ.

    During the meeting, the Council reviewed two reports from its Preliminary Complaints Assessment Committees, which examined 35 petitions against judges from the Federal and State High Courts.

    The Council decided to form eight committees to further investigate the petitions deemed meritorious by the assessment committees.

    Additionally, the NJC considered recommendations from its Interview Committee on the Appointment of Judicial Officers for all Superior Courts of Record in Nigeria.

    As a result, the NJC resolved to recommend 86 judicial officers for appointment to the Court of Appeal, High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Sharia Courts of Appeal, and Customary Courts of Appeal of various states in Nigeria.

    These candidates will be sworn in after the NJC’s recommendations are approved by the President and their respective state governors.

  • BREAKING! Court denies Binance executive, Gambaryan bail …see why

    BREAKING! Court denies Binance executive, Gambaryan bail …see why

    A Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday denied the bail application of a crypto currency firm executive, Tigran Gambaryan.

    Justice Emeka Nwite, while delivering the ruling, held that the bail application is refused as he has carefully gone through the application submitted before him and resolved that the defendant will jump bail if granted.

    Gambaryan, his company, Binance Holdings Limited, and a fellow top executive currently on the run, Nadeem Anjarwalla, were charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, with money laundering and terrorism financing .

  • What Tinubu Discussed With Senegalese President, Faye 

    What Tinubu Discussed With Senegalese President, Faye 

    The details of the meeting between President Bola Tinubu and his Senegalese counterpart, Bassirou Faye have emerged.

    Recall that the Senegal President arrived in Nigeria on Thursday and met with President Tinuhu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    A statement issued by the presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, quoted President Tinubu saying that countries in West Africa must unite to defeat the scourge of terrorism, human trafficking, and poverty in the region.

    He urged leaders in the region to make the people the focal point of governance, noting that the essence of democracy is lost when citizens are not enjoying dividends.

    The president emphasised that democratic values and constitutional order are sacrosanct and must be protected.

    He added that critical institutions like the judiciary must be respected and obeyed for the sustenance of democracy.

    He said: “Constitutional democracy is what Senegal proved to the rest of the world and Africa. It is a joy to have you here and to meet the hope and aspirations of our youths. You fit in perfectly well.

    “A critical time it is in the history of constitutional democracy, particularly in West Africa. What you have embarked upon, a struggle couched in freedom, is remarkable.”

    The president described Nigeria and Senegal as brotherly nations, recounting both countries’ long history of cooperation.

    He added: “We are brothers. We have shared an interest in democracy. To make democracy sustainable in the interest of our people, we definitely must work hard.

    “I am glad that you are a shining example of patience, perseverance, and commitment to democratic values.

    “We must partner to make our people the focus of our democratic commitment. Your belief in the sovereignty of Africa is shared by all of us.

    “But how can we work for our people and make them the focus of our democracy if we are violating the rule of law and promoting an unconstitutional takeover of government?

    “As the chairman of ECOWAS, I am inviting you to collaborate and meet those other brothers. To persuade them to come back to the fold.

    “We will continue to work together. We share good backgrounds, and we will continue to embrace and promote democratic governance.

    “We must be able to partner and build the freedom we believe in – in economic growth, development, and other spheres of governance. It is left for us to provide assurance to our people and walk our talk.

    “We must defeat human trafficking; we must defeat terrorism, banditry, and poverty in our society. That must be our focus and commitment.”

    Speaking during the meeting, Faye acknowledged Nigeria and Senegal’s shared values and challenges, noting that both nations have always had good relations since the 1960s.

    He called for the reactivation of the Nigeria-Senegal joint commission to strengthen bilateral relations across the areas of diplomacy, trade, and other spheres.

    On ECOWAS, Faye said with Tinubu’s wisdom and experience, relations among member states can be strengthened for the advancement of the community.

    He said: “The good relations we have and the relations between our private sectors should be beneficial to our countries.

    “ECOWAS is the beacon of successful regional integration in Africa and globally. It is something we owe to the founding fathers of the community.

    “I have no doubt that you want to continue this legacy of integration. The union is going through a rough patch, but not everything is lost.

    “I know I can rely on your wisdom and experience, as the leader of this great African nation.

    “Your wisdom and your democratic values should be an asset to that vision, and my youth and determination can also be an asset.

    “If we come together, with all these assets and advantages, I am convinced we can open a window of opportunity to discuss.

    “United, we are stronger. Faced with common challenges, such as human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and all other challenges, we need to show resolve to confront these challenges.

  • Abuja property: Court rules in Abacha family/FG legal battle, June 27

    Abuja property: Court rules in Abacha family/FG legal battle, June 27

    The Federal High Court, Abuja, will on June 27, deliver judgment in a suit by the family of the late Head of State, General Sani Abacha challenging the revocation of the property of the former Military ruler in the Maitama District of Abuja.

    The suit was instituted before Justice Peter Lifu by wife of the late General Abacha, Hajia Maryam Abacha and her eldest surviving son, Mohammed Sani Abacha.

    The suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/463/2016, have the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Federal Capital Development Authority FCDA, President, Federal Republic of Nigeria and Salamed Ventures Limited as 1st to 4th defendants respectively.

    The plaintiff, through her council, Dr Reuben Okpanachi Atabo SAN, wants the court to nullify and set aside the purported revocation of the Certificate of Occupancy(CoO) of the property of the late General Sani Abacha located in the Maitama District.

    The Certificate of Occupancy marked FCT/ABUKN 2478 covering plot 3119 issued on June 25, 1993 was said by the family to have been illegally and unlawfully revoked by the defendants.

    In their statement of claims, the Abacha family said that the FCT under Nasir El-Rufai had instructed them to submit the Certificate of Occupancy in their possession for re-certification.

    They claimed that the 2nd plaintiff, Mohammed Sani Abacha promptly complied with the directive by delivering the Certificate of Occupancy to the FCDA and acknowledgement copy issued to him.

    While waiting for a new Certificate of Occupancy to be issued to them, plaintiffs asserted that Mohammed Abacha received a letter on February 3, 2006 notifying them that the Certificate of Occupancy had been revoked without any reason adduced in the letter.

    Besides the failure to give any reason for the revocation, the Abacha family alleged that adequate compensation was not paid as required by law.

    The family therefore asked the Judge to declare as unconstitutional, unlawful, illegal, null and void and of no effect, the purported revocation of the property.

    They sought order of the Court setting aside the purported revocation and holding that their Certificate of Occupancy is valid and subsisting having been revoked without payment of adequate compensation.

    According to them, the Certificate of Occupancy issued to the late Head of State was maliciously revoked without legal basis or justification

    The plaintiffs asked for an order of injunction prohibiting the defendants from taking any further step on the disputed revocation.

    Similarly, the prayed Justice Lifu to award N500M as damages to be paid to them by the four defendants.

    Meanwhile, counsel to the defendants, Dr James Ogwu Onoja SAN, in their counter affidavits and preliminary objections asked for outright dismissal of the suit.

    Among other reasons, the defendants claimed that the suit at the time it was instituted had become statute barred having not been filed within time allowed by law.

    Although, some of the defendants were not in court at Wednesday’s proceedings, Justice Lifu invoked the rule of the Court in adopting their processes already filed.

  • BREAKING: Tinubu, Shettima to pay tolls at airports

    BREAKING: Tinubu, Shettima to pay tolls at airports

    President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima will now henceforth pay the required fees at tollgates whenever they use the nation’s airports.

    This came as the the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting he presided over at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Tuesday approved that there should be no more exemption granted to users of the airports from paying tollgate fees.

    The approval was made following a memorandum presented to the council by the minister of aviation, Festus Keyamo, who argued that the government was losing over 82% of the revenue it should have earned from the e-tags that provide access to the tollgates.
     
    He explained that the memoranda had initially prescribed an exemption for only the president and the vice president before Tinubu overruled and directed that both of them should be included among those that must pay.

    Keyamo, who disclosed this at the post-FEC media briefing, regretted that Very Important Persons (VIPs) with money who should pay are those that have not been paying, noting that only poor people had been charged for using the tollgates.

    He said this must now stop.