Women Make Up Almost 50% of Nigeria's Population, But Only 4% of Parliament - Ogwuche
Rwanda has 63.5% women in parliament, while Nigeria ranks 54th out of 54 in Africa for women's representation. Globally, we rank 174th out of 182. Campaigning for reserved seats for women is not symbolism or tokenism; it's a socioeconomic imperative backed by World Bank research showing a potential $229 billion GDP boost by closing the gender gap.
Osasu Igbinedion Ogwuche, Founder, TOS Foundation Africa
@Ms_Jera The birth of Christ is a major milestone too. Cos if he wasn’t born, chances are that he wouldn’t have died and then resurrected. However, I totally understand your point.
@KhloeUmoh My dear chronic poverty is the root cause and nothing more. The privileged few know this and that’s why they would do every thing within their powers to keep the people improvised. Poverty has become a weapon in the hands of a privileged few.
Dear colleagues,
I am excited to personally invite you to register for the 2025 Nigerian Bar Association @NigBarAssoc Annual General Conference, set to take place in the beautiful city of Port Harcourt. This year’s conference, themed ‘Stand Out, Stand Tall,’ promises to be an enriching experience filled with insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and innovative sessions designed to elevate our profession to greater heights.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and be part of impactful conversations that will shape the future of the legal profession in Nigeria.
Registration is open, and I encourage you to take advantage of the early bird rates. To register, visit: https://t.co/DdAMEwYPuZ
See you in Port Harcourt!
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President, Nigerian Bar Association
On January 15, 2025, I had the honor of attending the 21st Anniversary of Fawehinmiism, the Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture, organized by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch. Themed “Nigeria: 15 Years After Gani,” the lecture provided a powerful platform for reflection on the life, legacy, and enduring contributions of the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN.
In my speech, I charged the audience to imbibe the virtues that defined Chief Gani Fawehinmi—courage, unwavering commitment to justice, and an unrelenting pursuit of the rule of law. Chief Gani’s life was a testament to the power of standing firmly for what is right, regardless of the challenges or opposition faced. His dedication to championing the rights of the downtrodden and his bold advocacy for good governance remain an inspiration to all of us.
I took a moment to commend the Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch, for their remarkable dedication to consistently hosting this annual lecture. Their commitment to keeping Chief Gani’s ideals alive is a service not only to the legal profession but also to the nation at large. By fostering critical conversations on national progress and justice, the branch continue to uphold the values that Chief Gani so passionately championed.
As we reflect on 15 years after Gani, let us, as legal practitioners and citizens, draw strength from his legacy to address the challenges confronting our nation. By advocating for the rule of law, holding government accountable, and defending the rights of the oppressed, we honor his memory and contribute to building a better Nigeria.
The NBA remains committed to fostering dialogues that inspire action, unity, and progress. May we all continue to uphold the values of justice, courage, and integrity in our individual and collective pursuits.
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President, Nigerian Bar Association
We wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year in Advance. Thank you for your support always #merrychristmas#soarsupereagles 🎄🌲
Dear Colleagues,
As we stand at the threshold of Christmas, I am filled with immense gratitude for the boundless love and blessings that God has showered upon us. The gift of Jesus Christ reminds us of the transformative power of love, compassion, and selflessness.
This special season invites us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with our loved ones, friends, and colleagues. Let us cherish the triumphs we've achieved together as a Bar, and humbly learn from the challenges that have tested our resolve.
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, may His teachings inspire us to recommit ourselves to the noble values of our profession: justice, empathy, and service to humanity. May our hearts be filled with compassion, kindness, and generosity.
On behalf of the Nigerian Bar Association @NigBarAssoc, I wish you and your families a joyous, peaceful, and love-filled Christmas. May the New Year usher in renewed hope, greater opportunities, and immense progress for us all.
Merry Christmas!
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President, Nigerian Bar Association
NBA CONDOLES THE FAMILIES OF STAMPEDE VICTIMS AND CALL FOR CAUTION
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) expresses its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives in recent stampedes in Anambra, Abuja, and Oyo States during the distribution of relief items and monetary gifts. These heartbreaking incidents claimed the lives of over 67 individuals, including 37 citizens in Oyo, 10 at a Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and 20 more in Okija, Anambra State.
While death is a natural part of life, the loss of lives under such preventable circumstances is deeply painful and demands our collective reflection. These tragedies remind us of the critical need for adequate safety measures to avoid a recurrence.
The NBA commends the generosity of Nigerians who, particularly in this festive season, have chosen to share resources with the less privileged. However, we strongly urge individuals and organizations engaging in charitable acts to prioritize the safety and well-being of beneficiaries by adopting the following measures:
1. Organizers must implement effective crowd control strategies to prevent chaotic situations. This includes designating orderly distribution points and ensuring systematic arrangements for receiving relief items.
2. Involving law enforcement and safety personnel during such activities is essential to maintain law and order, prevent overcrowding, and ensure the safety of all participants.
3. Public messaging on the importance of calmness and patience during relief distributions can significantly reduce the risks associated with large gatherings.
4. Exploring safer and more efficient methods, such as digital transfers or staggered distribution schedules, can mitigate risks and ensure equitable access to aid.
As we celebrate during this festive season, let us collectively strive for safer celebrations. Every Nigerian life is precious, and preventing such avoidable tragedies must remain a shared responsibility.
The Nigerian Bar Association remains committed to advocating for measures that uphold the dignity of all Nigerians and prevent such unnecessary loss of life. We urge government agencies, private organizations, and individuals to prioritize safety as they extend goodwill to others.
May God comfort the bereaved families and grant eternal rest to the departed souls.
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President, Nigerian Bar Association
Earlier today, I had the honour of delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Nigerian Bar Association @NigBarAssoc at the Annual Justices’ Conference of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, themed “Judicial Introspection.”
This occasion provided a platform to celebrate the unwavering resilience of our judiciary while addressing the critical challenges confronting justice delivery in Nigeria. In my remarks, I emphasized the importance of judicial independence, the integration of technology to improve efficiency, and the urgent need to tackle systemic issues, such as delays in justice delivery and the misuse of appellate processes.
I further highlighted the necessity for innovative measures to address the insecurity that has led to the closure of some Court of Appeal divisions. I stressed that justice must never become a casualty of the difficulties facing our nation.
The Nigerian Bar Association remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborating with the judiciary to ensure that our legal system continues to inspire confidence, deliver justice, and serve as a pillar of hope for all Nigerians.
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President, Nigerian Bar Association
STATEMENT BY THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION ON THE ARREST OF DELE FAROTIMI AND ALLEGED INVASION OF HIS LAW FIRM
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) @NigBarAssoc is gravely concerned about the arrest of Dele Farotimi @DeleFarotimi on allegations of libel, as well as the reported invasion of his law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises. These actions constitute a troubling breach of the rule of law and the sanctity of the legal profession.
While the Nigerian Police Force has the authority to investigate crimes, this power must be exercised within the confines of the law and in respect of offenses recognized under Nigerian law.
We must reiterate that the alleged offense of libel, for which Dele Farotimi was reportedly arrested, is not recognized as a criminal offense under the laws of Lagos State. The Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 repealed the criminalization of defamation by omitting it from its provisions. This progressive legislative move aligns with global best practices, which treat defamation as a civil wrong rather than a criminal offense.
The Supreme Court in Aviomoh v. Commissioner of Police & Anor (2021) affirmed this position. Justice Helen Ogunwumiju, JSC, unequivocally held that defamation ceased to be a criminal offense in Lagos State following the enactment of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011. This authoritative pronouncement leaves no room for doubt.
Furthermore, under Sections 4 and 24 of the Police Act, 2020, the Nigerian Police Force is mandated to act only about conduct that constitutes a criminal offense under Nigerian law. Arresting individuals for non-criminal matters, such as defamation in Lagos State, is not only unlawful but also a blatant violation of the principles of legality and the rule of law.
Of equal concern is the reported invasion of Dele Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises. Reports that phones were confiscated from lawyers and staff during this invasion highlight a severe disregard for the sanctity of legal practice and the constitutional rights of individuals. The legal profession is a cornerstone of justice and democracy, and any attempt to undermine its independence is a direct assault on the rule of law.
The NBA unequivocally condemns the invasion of Mr. Farotimi’s law firm, the harassment of its lawyers and staff, and the unlawful seizure of their phones. Such actions are not only a violation of the constitutional right to dignity and privacy but also an affront to the independence of the legal profession.
We, therefore demand the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, as his arrest lacks any basis under the laws of Lagos State. The authorities must swiftly launch an investigation into the invasion of his law firm, with the findings made public and those responsible held accountable.
We urge law enforcement agencies to prioritize the principles of legality, fairness, and respect for human rights in their operations. These principles are foundational to justice, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ freedoms.
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President
Nigerian Bar Association
I have a clear and compelling vision for our esteemed association, coupled with the experience necessary to make a significant impact from day one.
Join me on this journey toward creating a Proactive Bar, where we anticipate challenges, embrace opportunities, and foster an environment of continuous improvement and innovation.
As I proceed to engage each and everyone of you, follow the journey on all my Social Media Platforms:
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