JUDICIARY
LASG begins review of domestic violence law
The Lagos State Government has begun reviewing its “Protection Against Domestic Violence Law (DVL) 20215,’’ as part of efforts to combat rising cases of domestic violence.
The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) programme of the British Council and Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT) organised a meeting on Tuesday toward achieving this.
The meeting brought together judges, magistrates, police officers, students and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to contribute to the review.
Justice Sherifat Solebo and member of DSVRT, said that the review and reform of the state’s DVL which was enacted in 2007 was long overdue.
Solebo noted that the 14-year-old DVL which is currently enforced in Lagos preceded the Federal Act – the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015, by seven years.
She explained that during the COVID-19 lockdown, there was an increase in the domestic violence cases in the state.
The judge said this informed the calls for a review of the law as well as agitations that Lagos should adopt the (VAPP) Act 2015.
“There were a series of meetings with the wife of governor of Lagos State, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu. Some felt our DVL is adequate while some said it should be brought in line with the Federal Act (VAPP).
“To my mind and understanding, the latter (VAPP) criminalises violence against persons, whereas the DVL protects the rights of persons in domestic violence.
I, therefore, urge us to take a cursory look at the DVL using the VAPP as a guide among other laws and come up with suggestions that are reflective of our peculiar circumstances and situation,’’ she said.
Presenting an overview of the current DVL, Chief Magistrate Kikelomo Ayeye highlighted some areas in the law which needed reform and review.
Ayeye said that there should be an acknowledgement of the mental effects of domestic violence in the new law and not only the physical effects.
“Expeditious access to the justice system should be projected in the new law and it should be simple enough for lay men and illiterates to understand and know how to go about it.
“The new law should look at the best interests of children. Training requirements must be added to the new DVL because of the psychology of judges.
“In addition to the Prohibitive and Protection Orders issued by the courts in domestic violence matters, there is a need for diverse types of Orders such as Intervention Orders.
“The need for independent professional counselors should be mandated to handle domestic violence cases and there should be sections in the law which prohibit perjury and mischief in proceedings,’’ she said.
Justice Tola Oguntade said that men should be sufficiently protected in provisions in the new DVL.
“Prior to sitting at the Family Court, I used to think that domestic violence was perpetuated by men but I was wrong.
“As we say protect women, protect children. I say protect the men.
“The average Nigerian is ignorant of their rights. They think it is difficult to enforce their rights; we need to educate them because domestic violence is a destroyer of lives and livelihood,’’ Oguntade said.
From Hassan Taiye
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Afam Osigwe, SAN, has been praised for his visionary leadership and transformative impact on the legal profession. Since assuming office, Osigwe has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law.
According to Barrister Hamza N Dantani, Osigwe’s leadership has been marked by bold initiatives, fearless advocacy, and groundbreaking reforms. He has restored the NBA’s traditional role of holding leaders accountable and promoting the rule of law, challenging unconstitutional actions and human rights abuses.
One of the notable achievements of Osigwe’s presidency according to Hamza, is the repositioning of the Institute of Continuing Legal Education (ICLE). The introduction of a mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) regime has elevated professional competence and aligned the Nigerian Bar with international standards.
“Osigwe has also been instrumental in promoting human rights and public interest litigation. He has spearheaded campaigns against arbitrary arrests, electoral malpractice, and anti-democratic legislation, and established regional litigation committees nationwide”
“The NBA President’s commitment to technology and innovation has also been noteworthy. The launch of the Digital Annual Practice License and the digitization of the Letter of Good Standing have marked a new era in transparency and efficiency within the profession”
He further stated that ” Osigwe’s administration has prioritized the growth and success of young lawyers. The Nigerian Bar Association–Young Lawyers Forum (NBA-YLF) has introduced tailored mentorship, support programs, and funding initiatives to address the challenges faced by young lawyers”
“The 2025 NBA Annual General Conference, organized under Osigwe’s leadership, was hailed as one of the most successful in the history of the Association. The conference equipped lawyers with practical strategies to navigate contemporary legal and societal challenges.”
“Engine’s leadership style has been described as inclusive, humble, and genuinely committed to serving the legal profession. His detribalized approach has earned him respect across regions, political divides, and professional ranks.”
He expressed optimising that ” As Osigwe continues to lead the NBA, his legacy is expected to leave a lasting impact on Nigeria’s legal landscape. His commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law has restored the NBA’s image as the nation’s conscience”.
Professor Chidi Odinkalu, a legal scholar and judicial reform advocate, has praised the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for her decisive action in addressing misconduct within the judiciary.
The National Judicial Council (NJC) recently sanctioned five judicial officers for professional breaches, including age falsification and other misconducts. The decisions were made during the NJC’s 107th meeting held on November 13 and 14, 2024.
Judges Sanctioned for Misconduct
Among those sanctioned were:
- Justice Chukwuemeka Chikeka, Chief Judge of Imo State, who was recommended for compulsory retirement effective October 27, 2021. Justice Chikeka was found to have falsified his date of birth, with inconsistencies noted between 1956 and 1958. He was also directed to refund salaries and allowances received after his official retirement date.
- Hon. Kadi Babagana Mahdi, Grand Kadi of Yobe State, was also recommended for compulsory retirement after discrepancies in his date of birth were discovered. Records showed three different birth dates, while his actual year of birth was determined to be 1952. The NJC found that he should have retired 12 years ago and ordered him to refund salaries and allowances received during this period.
- Justice G.C. Aguma of Rivers State High Court and Justice A.O. Nwabunike of Anambra State High Court were suspended from duties for one year.
Odinkalu’s Commendation
Reacting to the NJC’s decision, Professor Odinkalu commended the Chief Justice of Nigeria for her swift and decisive response.
“Madam CJN, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has acted swiftly on this matter of age falsification by the Chief Judge of Imo State. She has done the right thing the right way,” Odinkalu stated.
He expressed hope that this move would signal a new era of improved judicial standards under Kekere-Ekun’s leadership of the NJC.
NJC’s Commitment to Judicial Integrity
The NJC emphasized its zero-tolerance for misconduct, reiterating its commitment to upholding integrity within the judiciary. The council urged judicial officers to adhere strictly to professional and ethical standards.
The actions taken are seen as a bold step toward restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system.
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on judges and lawyers to avoid delivering conflicting rulings, which he says undermine justice and governance. His warning follows conflicting judgments that nearly disrupted the local government election in the state.
Speaking at the 2024/2025 Legal Year ceremony in Port Harcourt, Fubara criticized legal professionals who compromise their integrity for personal gain. He emphasized the sacred role of the judiciary in upholding justice and urged judges to remain steadfast in truth.
“You are the god that we are seeing. Your position is to stand and defend us,” Fubara stated, adding that those who compromise justice would face severe consequences, both legally and morally.
Fubara praised the Rivers State judiciary, particularly the High Court, for their support in maintaining stability despite external pressures. He acknowledged threats and assaults faced by judicial officers but encouraged them to remain resolute in their pursuit of justice.
In his sermon, Bishop Rt Rev Wisdom Budu Ihunwo echoed the governor’s concerns, highlighting the negative impact of conflicting judgments on Nigeria’s unity and governance. The bishop warned that those responsible for such actions would eventually face divine punishment.
Governor Fubara concluded by emphasizing the need for strong institutions to safeguard democracy and ensure societal prosperity.
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