THE STREET LAWYER NG BLOG

Courtroom Conduct, Rights Rulings, and a Developing Human Rights Concern: The Legal Week in Review. This week across Nigeria and beyond, the legal space was shaped by courtroom developments, rights based rulings, institutional updates, and emerging human rights concerns. Here are the key legal stories that defined the week. 🇳🇬 NIGERIA ⚖️ 1. NBA Reacts to Reported Courtroom Incident The Nigerian Bar Association addressed reports of a courtroom incident in Abuja where a legal practitioner was allegedly asked to kneel during proceedings. The Association emphasised that while courts possess disciplinary powers, such powers must be exercised strictly within the bounds of the law, reaffirming the importance of professional dignity and due process. ⚖️ 2. Court Affirms Right to Record Police Officers A Federal High Court sitting in Warri Delta State has affirmed that citizens have the right to record police officers performing their duties in public spaces, including during stop ...

URGENT: SEXUAL VIOLENCE MUST NEVER BE NORMALISED AS CULTURE.  I have watched with deep concern the disturbing videos and reports currently circulating from parts of Ozoro and some communities in Delta Central and Isoko North areas of Delta State, which appear to depict acts of sexual violence being carried out under the guise of a local festival. What is shown in these materials is profoundly troubling and, if reflective of ongoing practices, represents a grave violation of the rights and dignity of women. Let me be unequivocal: Rape is not culture. Rape is not tradition. Rape is a crime. No custom, festival, or communal practice can justify the violation of another human being. I call on: - The Delta State Government - The Nigeria Police Force - Relevant security agencies - The National Human Rights Commission - The Ministry of Women Affairs to urgently investigate these developments, establish the full facts, and take immediate steps to: ✔ Protect women and girls in t...

EID AL-FITR MESSAGE FROM NBAWF FCT CHAPTER.  As we mark the end of Ramadan and celebrate Eid al Fitr, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all members of the NBA Women Forum FCT Chapter, our Muslim colleagues, and the wider community. Eid is a beautiful reminder that beyond the rigours of fasting lies renewal, renewal of faith, of purpose, and of our shared humanity. It calls us to carry forward the spirit of kindness, generosity, and quiet strength that defines this sacred season. For us as women in the legal profession, this moment is also an invitation, to continue showing up with courage, to support one another, and to remain intentional about building a Bar that is inclusive, compassionate, and responsive to the needs of society. May this Eid bring you peace in your hearts, clarity in your path, and joy in your homes. May the blessings of this season stay with you long after the celebrations are over. Eid Mubarak. Amb. Princess Hadiza Afegbua, FCILG, FIPMA, FIASM, CF...

Street Lawyer Insight - Why The Rule of Law Still Matters.  In many conversations today, the phrase “rule of law” is often repeated so frequently that it risks losing its meaning. Yet the rule of law is not merely a slogan used in speeches or legal documents. It is the foundation upon which stable societies are built. At its most basic level, the rule of law means that no individual, no matter how powerful is above the law, and no citizen, no matter how ordinary is beneath its protection. It is the principle that ensures that power is exercised through rules rather than personal discretion. Law as a Guardrail Against Arbitrary Power.  Throughout history, societies have struggled with a simple but fundamental question: how should power be exercised? Where the rule of law is weak, decisions are often made based on personal authority, political pressure, or momentary convenience. Where the rule of law is strong, institutions operate within clearly defined limits, and ...

CONSTITUTIONAL ZONING, INSTITUTIONAL CONSENSUS AND THE INTEGRITY OF THE NBA ELECTORAL PROCESS.  A Response to the Argument Against Regional Consensus in NBA Presidential Elections Recent commentary questioning the legitimacy of regional consensus in the forthcoming presidential election of the Nigerian Bar Association presents the debate as a contest between constitutional supremacy and regional political influence. While the defence of constitutional supremacy is commendable, the argument unfortunately proceeds from an incomplete reading of the constitutional architecture governing NBA elections and ignores important institutional developments within the Association. A more careful analysis shows that zoning and structured political consultation are themselves recognised elements of the NBA constitutional framework, and therefore cannot be casually dismissed as mere regional politics. 1. The NBA Constitution Recognises Zoning as an Electoral Principle The NBA Constitut...

Around the Legal World The Last Seven Days in Law By The Street Lawyer NG Editorial Desk Each week, courts, lawyers, and institutions across the world shape the direction of justice through rulings, reforms, and debates. From developments within the Nigerian Bar to landmark decisions in international courts, the past seven days have once again shown that the law is never static. Here are some of the legal stories that defined the week. 🇳🇬 Nigeria Court Order Halts Steps Toward NBA 2026 Elections One of the most discussed legal developments within Nigeria’s legal community this week came from the Oyo State High Court, which issued an interim order restraining the Nigerian Bar Association from taking steps toward the conduct of its 2026 national officers’ election.  The court also restrained members of the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA) from performing functions connected to the election pending the determination of the suit. The case, broug...

STATEMENT ON THE STRIKE BY KANO STATE LAW OFFICERS BY AARE OLUMUYIWA AKINBORO SAN.  I have followed with concern the ongoing strike by Law Officers in Kano State and the issues surrounding their welfare and working conditions. Law Officers play a critical role in the administration of justice. They serve as the legal backbone of government institutions and their work directly affects the efficiency of the justice system and public confidence in the rule of law. While industrial actions often arise from prolonged frustrations, it is important that such situations are addressed with sincerity, urgency, and a genuine commitment to resolving the underlying concerns. Temporary measures may calm tensions for a moment, but lasting solutions require meaningful engagement with the issues raised by the affected officers. Dialogue, transparency, and responsible leadership must guide the path forward. I therefore urge the Kano State Government, all relevant authorities, and stakeho...

NBA Elections, Egbe Amofin Consultations, and the Role of the Courts: Separating Facts from Assumptions.      - A closer look at the issues shaping the ongoing conversation within the Nigerian Bar Association. Over the past few days, discussions surrounding the forthcoming election of the President of the Nigerian Bar Association have intensified across legal platforms and social media spaces. Central to the conversation are three interconnected issues: the consultation process involving Egbe Amofin O’odua, questions about the role of the courts in internal electoral matters, and broader concerns about the integrity of the NBA’s electoral framework. While robust debate is healthy for any professional body, a closer look at the discussions reveals that several distinct issues are sometimes being collapsed into a single narrative.  For the sake of clarity and constructive engagement, it is important to separate these issues and examine them on their own ter...

“ Democracy, Fairness and the Future of the Bar: Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro SAN Addresses NBA Election Conversations.” Good Afternoon, Learned Colleagues and friends. In recent days, there has been considerable discussion within our Association regarding developments around the forthcoming election of the President of the Nigerian Bar Association and the consultation process involving Egbe Amofin. Many colleagues have urged me to respond to the various issues being raised. My earlier silence was not due to a lack of response, but rather my preference to approach such matters with calm reflection, maturity, and respect for the institutions of our great Association. Let me begin by appreciating Nigerian lawyers for their keen interest in the issues currently being discussed. The level of engagement across our profession reflects our collective desire to preserve the democratic character, credibility, and institutional integrity of the Nigerian Bar Association. However, it has al...

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY MESSAGE By Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro SAN.  On this International Women’s Day, I join millions around the world in celebrating the strength, resilience, and remarkable contributions of women in our families, communities, and professions. Across every sphere of society, women continue to demonstrate excellence, leadership, and dedication. Their influence in shaping homes, institutions, and the future of our society remains invaluable. This year’s focus on Rights, Justice, and Action, alongside the theme “Give to Gain,” reminds us that progress is built through shared responsibility. When individuals, communities, and institutions contribute positively to one another, society grows stronger and more balanced. International Women’s Day therefore offers an opportunity for reflection and appreciation, recognising the many ways women continue to contribute to growth, stability, and development in our nation and across the world. Today, I celebrate the w...

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY – 8TH MARCH 2026 On this  International Women's Day, the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum FCT Chapter celebrates the strength, impact, and achievements of women worldwide. The Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum FCT Chapter proudly embraces this year’s theme: “Give to Gain” When women give, through mentorship, service, leadership, and support, we gain growth, influence, and lasting impact. Let us continue to give boldly and rise together. Happy International Women’s Day! #GiveToGain | #IWD2026 | #NBAWF

NBA WOMEN’S FORUM FCT REPRESENTED AT BODY OF BENCHERS ANNUAL LECTURE.  The Nigerian Bar Association Women’s Forum (NBAWF), FCT Chapter was proudly represented at the Body of Benchers Annual Lecture by a distinguished delegation of women lawyers. The Acting State Lead, Mrs. Roxana Ozoemena Esq, who also serves as the Facilitator for the NBAWF Nyanya/Karu Chapter, led a 12 member delegation to the event, demonstrating the Forum’s commitment to professional development, thought leadership, and the continued advancement of women within the legal profession. This representation follows the temporary absence of the FCT State Lead, Hajia Hadiza Afegbua, who is currently on vacation. In her stead, Mrs. Roxana Ozoemena has been appointed to serve as Interim State Lead pending her return. The participation of the Forum at the prestigious lecture underscores the importance of women lawyers remaining visible, engaged, and influential in conversations shaping the future and ethics o...

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE It is with profound grief and complete submission to the will of Almighty God that I received the heartbreaking news of the sudden passing of Dr. Mentor Oriere, immediate past Treasurer of the Nigerian Bar Association Bwari Branch. Dr. Oriere was a dedicated and dependable member of the Bar whose commitment to service, integrity in stewardship, and loyalty to the Branch distinguished his tenure. His contributions to the growth, financial stability, and institutional development of the Bwari Branch will not be forgotten. He served with quiet strength and admirable responsibility. On behalf of myself and my family, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Chairman, Executive Committee, and entire members of the NBA Bwari Branch, as well as to his immediate family and loved ones.  This is indeed a painful loss, not only to the Branch but to the legal community at large. May the Almighty God grant his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, an...