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 […]
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. […]
By STELLA JUSTICE NNENNAYA A Question at the Intersection of Law and Power THE question of whether law enforcement agents can enter a courtroom to arrest a judge has sparked recurring debate within Nigeria’s legal and public spheres. While the issue may appear straightforward, legal experts say it sits at the delicate intersection of judicial independence, […]
A Message That Strikes a Different Tone AMID colourful celebrations and festive gatherings marking Easter, a contrasting message has begun to resonate across social media and faith communities: Easter is “not for everybody.” The statement, stark and unconventional, has sparked conversations about the emotional and psychological realities many Nigerians face despite outward expressions of joy. […]
Understanding the Post-Retirement Limits of Judges IN Nigeria’s legal system, the transition from the bench to retirement comes with strict limitations. One of the most significant is the inability of retired judges to return to courtroom advocacy. Although judges are typically drawn from the ranks of experienced lawyers, their judicial service creates a permanent ethical […]
When Technology Collides with Legal Standards A High Court ruling delivered by Justice Bahati Mwamuye has spotlighted the limits of artificial intelligence in legal proceedings, following the dismissal of a court application found to have been generated using AI tools. The court not only rejected the application but also ruled that its deficiencies were so […]