A Party on the Brink NIGERIA’S opposition landscape is facing fresh uncertainty as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) edges dangerously close to possible exclusion from the 2027 general elections. Caught in a web of legal disputes, leadership tussles, and regulatory constraints, the party now finds itself in a race against time—one that could determine not […]
Strengthening Criminal Justice Through Training The Commissioner of Police in Cross River State has called for the full implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL), stressing that continuous training of law enforcement personnel is essential to achieving meaningful justice sector reforms. The police chief made the appeal during an engagement with stakeholders, highlighting […]
Arraignment Over Alleged Illegal Levy TWO men have been arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Warri, Delta State, over allegations of unlawfully demanding a development levy, locally referred to as “deve,” from a property developer. The suspects, identified as Irikefe Ajueyitsi and Abubakar Nasiru, were brought before Chief Magistrate E. M. Sowho at Magistrate Court […]
A Familiar Courtroom Ritual IN courtrooms across Nigeria, a distinctive ritual unfolds moments before proceedings begin. A court registrar raises their voice and announces a single word: “Court!” Instantly, everyone in the room rises—lawyers, litigants, court staff, and observers alike. To the uninitiated, the practice may appear ceremonial or even theatrical. However, legal experts say […]
Clarifying a Common Legal Misconception IN everyday language, the terms evidence and exhibit are often used interchangeably. However, within the legal system, the distinction between the two is both technical and significant, shaping how courts evaluate facts and reach decisions. Legal practitioners emphasise that misunderstanding these concepts can lead to confusion about how cases are […]
NBA Flags Growing Judicial Encroachment THE Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed deep concern over what it describes as increasing judicial interference in the internal affairs of political parties, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic framework. In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its President, Afam Osigwe, a […]
THE WORD THAT TRIPS MANY: WHY “EVIDENCES” DOES NOT EXIST IN LEGAL ENGLISH Everyday Usage vs Legal Precision IN everyday speech, it is common to hear phrases such as “I have many evidences” used to describe multiple supporting materials in an argument or dispute. However, within legal practice, that expression is considered incorrect. Legal professionals […]
Inside the First Step of Criminal Justice CONTRARY to widespread belief, criminal trials do not begin with witness testimony or legal arguments. Instead, they start with arraignment—a procedural requirement that serves as the gateway to justice. Arraignment is the stage at which the court formally presents charges to the accused and demands a plea. Legal […]
Understanding the Lawyer–Client Relationship in Law THE assumption that a client is bound to a lawyer until the conclusion of a case remains widespread but legally inaccurate. In practice, the relationship between a lawyer and a client is governed by contractual principles and professional rules, allowing for termination under specific conditions. In legal terms, this […]
A Personal Story Reflecting Industry Realities VETERAN actor Abiodun Ayoyinka has brought renewed attention to longstanding concerns about remuneration and rights in Nigeria’s film and television industry. Known for his iconic portrayal of “Papa Ajasco,” Ayoyinka disclosed that his earnings—despite decades in the role—have remained modest, with current pay standing at approximately ₦45,000 per episode. […]