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 […]
Objections as the Backbone of Fair Trials WITHIN adversarial legal systems, courtroom proceedings are governed by strict evidentiary and procedural rules. One of the most visible enforcement tools is the objection—a mechanism through which lawyers challenge perceived irregularities during trial. When a lawyer raises an objection, the judge is immediately called upon to rule on […]
By STELLA JUSTICE NNENNAYA A Common Encounter on Nigerian Roads ENCOUNTERS between citizens and law enforcement officers often come with a familiar request: “Open your phone.” For many Nigerians, this demand—frequently made during stop-and-search operations—has become routine. Yet, beneath the humour and casual compliance lies a serious legal question: can the police lawfully compel a citizen […]
Understanding the Distinction in Nigeria’s Legal System IN everyday conversation, the terms “lawyer” and “advocate” are often used interchangeably. Yet within Nigeria’s legal framework, the distinction—though subtle—reveals deeper structural and professional realities about how the justice system functions. A lawyer, in the Nigerian context, is any individual who has completed legal education, attended the Nigerian […]
The Rising Legal Debate Around Prophetic Claims ACROSS Nigeria’s vibrant religious landscape, prophetic declarations often carry immense personal and economic weight. From career breakthroughs to life-changing opportunities, believers frequently act on these assurances. But what happens when those assurances fail? Increasingly, aggrieved individuals are questioning whether the law offers any remedy against prophets whose predictions […]