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National Justice Summit: Tinubu demands performance, challenge Judiciary to take the leadp

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National Justice Summit: Tinubu demands performance, challenge Judiciary to take the lead


 * As leaders seek system that provides justice for all
…Akpabio wants ruling in interlocutory appeals reserved till conclusion of suit 
…. curbing of misuse of exparte order 

By: Michael Mike

Nigerian leaders on Wednesday has called for the enthronement of an effective justice sector that would guarantee quality and speedy dispensation of justice in the country.

Leaders who spoke at the opening of a two-day National Summit on Justice include President Bola Tinubu, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola,  Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN and representatives of the European Union, United Nations office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and others.

The event is been organized in collaboration with the European Union funded RoLAC II Programme of the International IDEA.

Declaring the summit open, Tinubu who was represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shetima, reiterated his committed to ensuring that the justice system in Nigeria is not just working but meets the aspiration of the people.

He said to that effect his administration upon coming on board has been working hand in hand with the Judiciary to uproot identified challenges in the sector.

While stating that the key challenge is how to address the claim that the justice sector is not responsive, he appealed to leaders of other arms of government to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration.

According to him, immediately he assumed office, he moved to harmonize the retirement age of judicial officers and made the welfare of the Judiciary a priority.

Besides stating that the funding for the Judiciary was double by a 100%, the president disclosed that he recently approved a substantial improvement in the salaries of judges, which is pending at the National Assembly.

The president, who observed that the Judiciary has recorded some commendable achievements especially with the Child Rights Act and reform in the Correctional service, however emphasized the need for an effective justice system that would provide justice for all.

He specifically charged leaders in the justice sector to seek for new directions and “find solutions to problems facing the sector”.

He also challenged participants at the summit to come up with policies that serve the needs of all citizens both now and in the future, adding that there must be a concerted effort towards improving public trust in the sector.

While demanded performance from the sector, so as to provide a fair and just system for all, he assured that he will not interfere with the Judiciary, adding that he will continue to work with the bar and bench in ensuring Nigerians enjoy the dividend of democracy.

Also speaking, Akpabio observed that the summit is not just a forum for discussion but a call to action, adding that expert’s recommendations must be translated into effective policies that will address not only current inefficiencies but also future challenges. 

“I will not be telling the truth if I say that we at the National Assembly are not aware of the delays and backlogs plaguing our courts, which not only deny timely justice but undermine faith in our judicial system”, he said.

According to him these delays harm society’s most vulnerable and create an environment where justice is seen as inaccessible and inefficient.

The Senate President subsequently called for urgent reform in the approach of interlocutory appeals in civil cases. “Currently, these appeals often cause unnecessary delays, prolonging litigation and burdening our courts. As was done in the criminal jurisprudence during the enactment of Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, we propose that all appeals in civil cases should be taken only after the conclusion of the substantive case. 

“This change will accelerate judicial processes, reduce backlog, and ensure that litigations are not unduly prolonged by intermediate appeals”, he added.

Another area Akpabio also claimed requires urgent reform is the need for obtaining the Attorney General’s consent before executing judgments. He observed that the requirement often acts as a bottleneck, delaying justice and undermining the autonomy of the judicial system. 

To that extent the legislators are proposing a replacement of the requirement for the Attorney General’s consent with a mandatory notification system. 

He said, “Upon receiving a judgment against the government, the relevant authorities will notify the Attorney General immediately in writing.

Following the notification, the Attorney General will have a specified period, say 30 days, to respond. The response could involve initiating an appeal or settling the matter directly. This timeline ensures prompt action and prevents undue delays in justice delivery.
 
“If there is no response from the Attorney General within this period, the judgment will be executed automatically. This measure is crucial to prevent stalling and ensure that judgments are respected and enforced in a timely manner. In cases where the judgment comes from a final court, the option to appeal is not available. 

“Therefore, the Attorney General’s response would be primarily directed towards settlement. This approach ensures that the government acts responsibly as a litigant and respects the decisions of our highest court in the land”. 

He claimed that reforms like this foster trust in the justice system and improve the overall efficiency of legal proceedings involving the government.

Another area he sought reform is the misuse of ex parte orders in political cases by judges.  He said to curb it,  it is imperative that the National Judicial Council (NJC) exercises stringent oversight and met out decisive punishment for judges who are found to abuse their authority in this manner.

“We further propose that the NJC establish clear and detailed standards governing the issuance of ex parte orders, accompanied by a defined set of sanctions for violations. These sanctions should be severe enough to serve as a deterrent against future abuses

“We recommend that the  NJC should conduct regular audits and reviews of ex parte orders issued by judges to ensure compliance with established standards. This proactive approach will help in identifying patterns of abuse early and in administering corrective measures promptly.

“In addition to punitive measures, we also emphasize the importance of ongoing training and education for judges on the ethical and responsible use of judicial discretion in issuing ex parte orders”, he added.

Meanwhile, in his remarks, the Chief Justice of Nigeria,CJN, Olukayode Ariwoola, lamented that justice is still a far reality for most Nigerians, and has therefore called for a critical look at the legal framework with a view of making necessary reforms.

Meanwhile, Ariwoola urged that the judiciary must leverage on technological innovation in order to address issues of corruption, inefficiency, and undue influence.

The CJN said that the judiciary under his watch, has recorded a significant milestone.

Also speaking, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, said the justice sector under his watch will continue to push for mutuality in the formation and implementation of the national policy on justice.

According to him, the policy seeks to improve mechanisms for fair and speedy dispensation of justice; detention and correctional services; restorative justice; alternative dispute resolution (ADR) — developing Nigeria into an arbitration hub on the continent; commerce and economic activities; compliance with treaty obligations; synergy and cooperation across the justice sector; and independence of the judiciary; among others. 

“Regarding the emphasis on strengthening the independence and welfare of the judiciary, it is to be recalled that one of the cardinal items on the Renewed Hope Agenda of this administration is to drive judicial reforms to achieve sustainable socio-economic growth and investment, facilitated by the rule of law, and to address the challenges militating against judicial development in our country.. 

“One key theme that has been added to the National Policy on Justice is Justice for Children. This is in line with our commitments under various inter national, regional and national instruments on protection of children consistent with the guiding principles on the best interest and welfare of the child. The idea is to adopt deliberate and strategic interventions for dealing with children in contact with the law” he added. 

Also speaking, National Programme Manager, RoLAC II, International IDEA, Danladi Plang, observed that quality reform would attract the much needed Foreign Direct Investment to grow the economy.

According to him investors would not want to come to a country where their money would be tied down. “When you go to litigation they ask somebody to pay money into the court until the case is determined. We have cases that have gone up to 10 years. No investor would want to come to a country like that. 

“So improving the efficiency of the justice system is important not only for commercial cases but also for criminals, we have seen many people detained for a very long time because their case has not been heard”.

National Justice Summit: Tinubu demands performance, challenge Judiciary to take the lead

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NIGERIAN ARMY BURIES LATE BRIG GEN EF ZAMANI (RTD) IN ZONKWA, KADUNA STATE

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NIGERIAN ARMY BURIES LATE BRIG GEN EF ZAMANI (RTD) IN ZONKWA, KADUNA STATE

By: Musa Yahaya

The Nigerian Army has bid a final farewell to the late Brigadier General Elias Fadda Zamani (Retired) on 15 March 2025, in his hometown of Zonkwa, Kaduna State. Late Brigadier General Zamani who was a member of the 14th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy passed away in Abuja on 27 February 2025, after a brief illness.

Born on 21 July 1952, in Zonkwa, Kaduna State, Brigadier General Zamani’s illustrious military career began at the Nigerian Defence Academy, where he was commissioned into the Infantry Corps on 13 December 1975. He rose through the ranks, holding various command, staff, instructional, and extra-regimental appointments, before he voluntarily retired on 31 May 2006, after over three decades of distinguished service in the Nigerian Army.

At the funeral ceremony, Major General Mayirenso Lander David Saraso, representing the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede NAM, described Brigadier General Zamani as a highly trained and disciplined professional soldier. He highlighted the late general’s exceptional leadership traits, professionalism, and commitment to duty, earned or exhibited during his attendance of various military courses in Nigeria and abroad.

The COAS further eulogized the late senior officer, describing him as a silent worker, a brilliant, resourceful, and self-assured senior officer with impeccable integrity. He added that Brigadier General Zamani was a transformational leader and a true patriot, whose contributions to the Nigerian Army left lasting marks of excellence. His dedication to the welfare of his troops and the harmonious and cordial relationship with his colleagues were widely recognized, respected, and commended.

The solemn military ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including Her Excellency, Mrs. Agyin Agbu Kefas, wife of the Executive Governor of Taraba State, senior military officers, coursemates of the deceased senior officer, family members, and friends, all gathered to pay their last respect to a man who dedicated his life to serving the nation.

NIGERIAN ARMY BURIES LATE BRIG GEN EF ZAMANI (RTD) IN ZONKWA, KADUNA STATE

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Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister in Nigeria to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

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Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister in Nigeria to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

By: Michael Mike

Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Affairs is in the country to explore avenues for deepening bilateral ties with Nigeria in the areas of healthcare, education, agriculture, science and technology, and cultural exchange.

A statement on Sunday by the Acting Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
Kimiebi Ebienfa read that: “Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomes His Excellency, Mr. Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, on his official visit to Nigeria. This visit underscores the strong and cordial bilateral relations between Nigeria and Cuba, which have been nurtured over many decades of mutual respect, solidarity, and cooperation.

“The sterling role played by both countries in the abolition of apartheid and in support of liberation movements as well as the actualization of independence for many African nations is the rallying point for the relations.”

According to the statement, the visiting Minister will hold a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar on Monday to explore avenues for deepening bilateral ties in areas such as healthcare, education, agriculture, science and technology, and cultural exchange. Both nations will also deliberate on enhancing collaboration within multilateral frameworks to address global challenges and promote sustainable development.

Part of the schedule lined up for the visiting Cuban Foreign Minister is the meeting with
Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima to deliver a special message from the Government of Cuba. He is also expected to engage in high-level discussions with the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

Nigeria and Cuba are members of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and Group of 77 plus China. Both countries share similar positions on numerous global issues, particularly on the advancement of global peace and security, new international order and sustainable development.

The statement said the visit of the Cuban Foreign Minister is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to reinvigorate Nigeria-Cuba relations and to foster greater South-South cooperation, noting that Nigeria remains committed to working closely with Cuba to advance shared interests and to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in our regions and beyond.

Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister in Nigeria to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

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THE REMAINS OF LATE CAPTAIN KEZIAH GODIYA AYUBA LAID TO REST WITH FULL MILITARY HONOURS

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THE REMAINS OF LATE CAPTAIN KEZIAH GODIYA AYUBA LAID TO REST WITH FULL MILITARY HONOURS

By: George Okupe

The Nigerian Army paid its final respects to the Late Captain Keziah Godiya Ayuba, who was laid to rest with full military honours on Friday 14 March 2025, in her hometown, Sambon Gida, Jaba Local Government Area, Kaduna State.

In a heartfelt tribute, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede mni NAM, represented by the Commander 1 Division Supply and Transport, Brigadier General Philip Ebuk, described her as a dedicated officer whose service was marked by professionalism, integrity and unwavering commitment to duty.

Born on 9 July 1987 in Shogunle, the Late Captain Ayuba hailed from Jaba Local Government Area, Kaduna State. She completed her education at Police Children School, Ikeja and Toamy Private College Egbe, before earning a Higher National Diploma in Public Administration from Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic. She was commissioned into the Nigerian Army on 3 July 2017 as a member of Direct Short Service Course 23.

Throughout her career, Late Capt Ayuba served in key roles, she was Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport and Staff Officer of Grade 3 Information and Publication at 81 Division Army Public Relations. She was also known for her leadership, discipline and dedication, earning the respect of her colleagues and superiors.

A highly trained officer, she completed several courses, namely the Young Officers’ Course (Public Relations), Media Operations Officers’ Course and Legal Aspects of Combatting Terrorism Course, excelling in all. She was widely admired for her intelligence, teamwork and mentorship, particularly among female soldiers. In recognition of her service, she was awarded the General Operations Medal. Until her passing, she remained a pillar of excellence in military public relations, known for her composure, eloquence and professionalism.

Describing her as a vibrant officer with exceptional capabilities, the COAS noted that she would be deeply missed by her family, the Nigerian Army and the Nation. As a final mark of respect, the military rendered a 21-gun salute and her Next of Kin was presented with the National Flag along with her military accoutrements.

THE REMAINS OF LATE CAPTAIN KEZIAH GODIYA AYUBA LAID TO REST WITH FULL MILITARY HONOURS

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