Deponents and the Consequences of Sworn Affidavits as Legal Documents

Deponents and the Consequences of Sworn Affidavits as Legal Documents

By: Balami Lazarus

In the course of writing this article, three names came to my mind who are legal gentlemen. Though one of them is no more. These men have contributed to my knowledge and understanding of the law in conducting my real estate business as a registered broker and how it works in the courts of law. However, I am not a lawyer, and I have never wished or aspired to be one despite the opportunities and privilege of being alive and in good health.

The understanding of some basic aspects of the laws is far away from many Nigerians. Well, my knowledge and fair understanding of some laws is from personal self-development. While my late brother Barr. John Kamdadi Balami and my good friend Barr. (Dr.) Nankin Samuel Bagudu, one of the radical human rights lawyers on the Plateau, were instrumental to my understanding of some aspects of the law/court procedures. And what to do in running my business and living life as a law-abiding citizen who respects constituted authorities/orders.

Another personality who is a friend and a brother by extension, a fine legal gentleman whose name I will not mention, is today a respected Honourable member of the Bench and has also played a significant role in my understanding of the law and what to do when and if the need arises.

My dealings with the courts of law have taught me patience, because courts under judges are a calm body of the judiciary. It is a place where you are given a fair hearing and judgement.

Furthermore, courts are where you can obtain signed legal documents on oath to different kinds of affidavits on civil matters/issues that directly concern the deponents, knowing fully well the consequences of lying while under lawful oath. This is because affidavits are official prescribed declarations of what one writes and claims to be true under oath. And that when and if the court finds out one is lying, you are liable for perjury.

Moreover, my association and interactions with human and civil rights organizations/associations, including my activities and contributions in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) matters for peacefully amicable settlements and/orconflict resolutions, have further exposed me to understanding of what affidavits are.

The courtrooms under judges are interesting places to be in seeking legal redress. But I have observed that many are not comfortable with the courts of law, not knowing they are hallmarks of legal protection, justice, and punishments under the laws of the land. Judges are known to be kind individuals with large hearts. They are men of privilege under and outside the law. It is at their discretion to temper justice with mercy in either civil or criminal cases. And it has also exposed me to who legal practitioners are with their legal rhetoric in court before a judge.

Therefore, courts are not only meant for fair hearings and judgments but also for where you find justice and legal protections through legal redress and sworn affidavits.

Balami, a publisher/columnist. 08036779290

Deponents and the Consequences of Sworn Affidavits as Legal Documents