This week has seen a flurry of activity in Nigeria’s legal arena, with several high-profile cases capturing the nation’s attention.
From battles over press freedom and constitutional rights to charges of financial impropriety and high-stakes criminal trials, the courts have been at the forefront of addressing some of the country’s most pressing issues.
This week’s roundup touches the key legal developments that have unfolded, providing insights into the judicial system’s handling of these intricate matters.
Court Rejects Councilor’s N5.8m Claim Against Local Government:
Justice Oluwakayode Arowosegbe dismissed former councilor Ugwu Alexander’s claim for N5.8 million in unpaid allowances against Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area.
The court ruled that the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission did not provide for such allowances, rendering Alexander’s demand illegal.
In The Court: Detained Journalists Challenge Legal Framework:
Journalists Isaac Olamilakan and Edoghogho Ugberease filed a lawsuit against the Federal Republic of Nigeria before the ECOWAS court, challenging certain provisions of the Nigeria Press Council Act of 1992.
They argued that sections imposing age requirements, mandating registration, and accreditation for journalists violate their rights to freedom of expression and non-discrimination.
The ECOWAS court ruled in favor of the applicants, ordering Nigeria to amend the contested sections to align with global practices and promote professional journalism.
Popular Instagram Celebrity Cubana Chief Priest Pleads Not Guilty to Naira Abuse Charges:
Popular socialite, Pascal Okechukwu, known as Cubana Chief Priest, pleaded not guilty to charges of naira abuse leveled against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
He was subsequently granted bail in the sum of N10 million after being accused of spraying and tampering with N500 notes during social events.
Court Restrains EFCC From Arresting, Prosecuting Ex-Kogi Gov Yahaya Bello:
A State High Court in Lokoja granted an order restraining the EFCC from arresting, detaining, or prosecuting former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. The court ruled that infringing on Bello’s fundamental human rights is null and void unless authorized by the court.
Court Sentences Armed Robbers to Death for Murder, Kidnapping
An Edo State High Court in Benin City handed down death sentences to three men for the armed robbery, kidnapping, and murder of Mr. Ephraim Akhere in Ekpoma.
However, a fourth suspect received a life sentence for receiving stolen property belonging to the deceased.
Court Orders Substituted Service on Mohbad’s Wife:
A Magistrate Court in Ikorodu granted an order allowing substituted service on Wunmi, the wife of late singer Mohbad, for a pending application to conduct a DNA test on their child.
The court permitted service by posting the notice at Wunmi’s last known address after failed attempts to serve her personally.
Why Court Dismissed Money Laundering Charges against Former AGF Adoke:
Justice Inyang Ekwo dismissed the money laundering allegations filed against former Attorney General of the Federation, Mohammed Adoke, by the EFCC.
The court ruled that the EFCC failed to establish a prima facie case against Adoke, clearing him of charges involving money laundering.