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Nwoke Advises ECOWAS Court, National Courts on Resolving Disconnect
Nwoke Advises ECOWAS Court, National Courts on Resolving Disconnect
By: Michael Mike
A former Vice President of the ECOWAS Court, Prof. Friday Nwoke has advocated a triple approach towards resolving the disconnect between the Court and the national courts of the Member States, which have an important role in the enforcement of the decisions of the regional court.
In a paper presented at the ongoing 2024 international conference of the Court in Freetown, Nwoke suggested that the Court should focus on such measures as training for officials of national courts, workshops and meetings with the sole objective of facilitating cooperation as these will impact positively on compliance and the enforcements of the judgements of the Court.
Nwoke, whose presentation was under the sub theme “Enhancing the role, relevance of the ECOWAS Court through strengthened synergy with the national courts of Member States,” stressed the importance of regular dialogue and cooperation between the Court and the national courts which will require exchange of information, case law and best practices to build mutual trust and respect.
He also urged Member States to revise their legal framework to incorporate provisions that recognize and enforce the decisions of the ECOWAS Court of justice, which will require aligning national laws with the ECOWAS Treaty and ensuring that national courts have the necessary legal tools to enforce the judgments of the regional court.
Nwoke also suggested that Member States enact legislation to recognize and enforce the judgments of the Court while the ECOWAS Commission and political actors, such as the Council of Ministers and the Authority of Heads of State and Government, should also be involved in the enforcement mechanism for decisions of the Court.
Other recommendations made by the presenter includes the creation of a monitoring unit with responsibility for monitoring and supervising the enforcement, a provision for an annual reporting of the level of enforcement of the judgements of the Court.
He noted that while the Court enjoys the respect of Member States, the continued non-compliance with its decisions could undermine public confidence while characterising the Court’s independence, boldness, and impartiality as key to its credibility.
He emphasized that strengthening the enforcement mechanism is essential to maintaining its effectiveness and ensuring compliance in good faith by member states.
The 2024 conference, which is being attended by 250 participants, is being held under the theme Enhancing the Role, Relevance and Effectiveness of the ECOWAS Court of Justice through the Strengthening of Synergies between the Court and National Stakeholders.
Nwoke Advises ECOWAS Court, National Courts on Resolving Disconnect
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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