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NBA AGC 2022 BOLD TRANSITION
PAGE 1
TARMAC STAR NIGERIA WIRES AND
CABLES
THE EDITOR’S
Your trusted cable certified for all purposes
APATA EDITORIAL
ADDRESS: DD 127 ALABA INTERNATIIONAL MARKET OJO TAKES A BOW PAGE 1
LAGOS PAGE 9
TELEPHONE: 08033342370

NBA AGC 2022
BOLD TRANSITIONS
A CONFERENCE TO RECALL
Lawyers in Nigeria are excited as the 62nd edition of the
Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association
(NBA) kicks off in Lagos with a multitude of over 10,000
legal practitioners converging in one of Nigeria's finest city
Lagos State, the Centre of Excellence. The Conference
hosted in one of Lagos’ First Class Hotels “The Eko
Atlantic”, simply leaves an indelible memory in the minds of
conference delegates.
This great feat, Organising the 62nd edition of the Annual
NBA AGC, is ably anchored by the 2022 Technical
Committee on Conference Planning proudly led by Mr
TOBENNA EROJIKWE as Chairman of the Technical
Committee on Conference Planning TCCP..
The TCCP has no doubts, clearly worked hard in bringing to
fruition, what would only be described as a “world class”
2022 AGC of the No. 1 Bar in Africa. The Nigerian Bar
Association.
BOLD TRANSITIONS is the theme of the NBA AGC 2022.
It is a theme so aptly drawn, as it brings to a conscious mind,
the various electioneering times in our polity, not forgetting
the just concluded NBA General Elections held on July 16,
which saw the emergence of Mr Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, as the new President of the
NBA.
Maikyau is honourably taking over the baton from the
outgoing NBA President Mr Olumide Akpata, who in 2020,
emerged as the first non-silk President of the NBA in the last
10 years of the Association. On the 12th of June 2022,
registration for the 62nd NBA-AGC opened with an early bird
registration which ended on 17th July 2022 spanning a period
of 5 weeks. In fixing the early bird registration window
LAW PARLIAMENT
1 i METROWATCH
The TCCP took into account the fact that previous windows
had historically been fixed for approximately 4 weeks with
an extension typically lasting for 7 days, it therefore, fixed
an early bird registration window of 5 weeks to allow
enough time for members to take advantage of the
discounted rates.
In anticipation of an increase in the number of delegates for
the 2022 NBA-AGC from 11:000 delegates to 13,000
delegates physically present, the TCCP arrived at this figure
of 13,0000 after considering other factors chief among
which were historical attendance figures and of course
conference costs
By way of comparison, at the last NBA-AGC held in the pre-
Covid era, in 2019, and incidentally in Lagos, there were a
total of 11,664 delegates without the option of a virtual
participation, Whereas, for the 2021 NBA AGC which held
in Port Harcourt, a total of 10,147 delegates registered for
the conference, inclusive of virtual delegates.
It was for the above reasons, that the 2022 TCCP increased
the 2022 capacity to 13000 while also making adequate
arrangement for virtual delegates to enjoy a similar
experience from the comfort of their homes or offices.
The virtual platform has capacity to accommodate about
30,000 conference delegates
The 62nd edition of the NBA AGC promises to present a
mind blowing experience as it has assembled, an array of
intellectuals like famous Nigerian writer Ngozi
Chimamanda Adichie, who will take on the podium as
keynote speaker
The conference also earmarks a beehive of other activities
including a male and female football competition, a Talent
show for legal Practitioners to showcase their God given
vocals, the robust plenary sessions, among other exciting
engagements
TRIPLENET MEDIA tops the TCCP in welcoming all
conferees and inviting them to have a classic experience of
the NBA AGC 2022
Welcome!!!
THE EDITOR IN CHIEF TRIPLENET BULLETIN
Mr Aloysius Emeka Daraojimba (JP) is a
seasoned Journalist of repute who has served in
the Federal Civil Service for over three decades
under the auspices of the News Agency of
Nigeria (NAN) ,as one of its foremost journalist
at the time.
Daraojimba is schooled in the field of media
practice and obtained his certification from the
College of Journalism Fleet Street Central
London U.K, where he also acquired an
education in Media Law.
He has served as state correspondent for NAN in Benin City Edo State as well as
Makurdi Benue State respectively, He also worked as a Client’s Relations
Deputy Director in the Marketing Department of NAN, from where he retired in
2012
Daraojimba is an eloquent speaker, a writer, a hardworking and resourceful
personality. Triplenet Bulletin is one of his pet projects
Sadio Mane Named African
Footballer Of The Year Ahead Of
Liverpool And Chelsea Stars
Sadio Mane has become the 10th player to win the African
Footballer of the Year award more than once. The Senegal
icon was announced as the 2022 winner at the Confederation
of African Football's awards ceremony in Rabat, Morocco
on Thursday July 21, 2022.
Mane was in Morocco to collect his award in person, less
than 24 hours after making his Bayern debut in the United
States. Mane topped the vote ahead of former Liverpool
teammate Mo Salah and Chelsea's Senegalese goal keeper
Edouard Mendy. Salah was the stand out player in England's
Premier League last season, winning the Golden Boot with
23 goals and topping the assists chart with 13. But Mane,
who left Liverpool to sign for Bayern in June, twice got the
better of Salah at international level. Mane beat Salah of
Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations final in February and then
again in a World Cup qualification play-off in March.
Mane also played a key role
in Senegal's success, as well
as becoming a Club World
Cup champion with Chelsea
in February. The 30-year-old
is the first goal keeper to
make the top three in an
African Footballer of the
Year vote since 2014 when
Vincent Enyeama came
third. Mane is the sixth player
to have been named African
Footballer of the Year on
exactly two occasions. The
others are Salah, Didier Drogba, Roger Milla, Nwankwo
Kanu and El Hadji. Diouf. George Weah and Abedi Pele are
both three-time winners, while Samuel Eto'o and Yaya Toure
have won the award four times each.
Amusan Breaks 100m Hurdles World Record, Wins
14
Nigeria's First ever Gold Medal in Oregon 2022
Sprint hurdler, Oluwatobi Amusan, won Nigeria's first World
Championships gold medal and a world record of 12.12secs early
hours of Monday July 25 at the Oregon 2022 in USA. Also on the
final day of the Championships, Ese Brume, won a long jump
silver medal for Nigeria with a 7.02m jump. It was a step up for
Brume who won a bronze at the last edition of the Championships
in Doha, Qatar in 2017.
The petit barrier runner, Amusan, in the final race, further
lowered the 12.12 secs she clocked in the semi final with another
world record of 12.06
secs. However, she was
unfortunately denied the
new time as it was
achieved above the legal
wind recorded at +2.5.
Running in a field that
comprised some of the
biggest sprint hurdlers in the world, Amusan burst from the block
same way as he did in the semi final to hit the finish line in
12.06secs. Jamaica's Britany Anderson (12.23) and Jasmine
Camacho-Quinn (12.23) settled for the silver and bronze medals
respectively. The 12.12secs clocked by Amusan in the semi final
earlier obliterated USA's Kendra Harrison's 12.20 secs world
record set in 2016.
The 25-year-old Nigerian lady has been giving signals of her
readiness to become the focal point of the sprint hurdle starting
with racing to an African record of 12.40 to win her heat. It was
the fastest first-round time in the heat of the World Athletics
Championships.
Speaking shortly after the World Record, Amusan gushed: "I
wanted to get out and go," said Amusan. "I did what had to do.
Now I'm looking forward to the finals." Even before the final gold
medal race which was Amusan's main target of the night in
Oregon, she was guaranteed a bonus $100,000 for the World
Record.
The 25-year-old Amusan's Road to greatness started with erasing
Glory Alozie's 12.74 seconds African Games record set in
Johannesburg, South Africa in 1999. She broke the Games record
twice in 2019 in Rabat, Morocco. She ran 12.69 seconds to win
her semifinal heat before running a hundreth of a second faster in
the final to win the gold at the African Games. Next was the 12.68
seconds Alozie ran twice to win a silver medal at the 2000
Olympics in Sydney, Australia which made her the fastest
Nigerian in the history of the quadrennial event.
Amusan smashed that in 2021 in Tokyo with her 12.60 seconds
performance which fetched her a fourth place finish in the event.
The reigning Commonwealth Games champion also consigned
to history the 12.44 seconds Alozie ran at the Monaco Diamond
League in 1998. The time, which also doubled as the African
record at the time was the fastest by any Nigerian in the history of
the event until September 2021 when Amusan ran 12.42 seconds
to achieve a treble
 BUSINESS FORCAST LAW PARLIAMENT
13 2
with his, by asking you to put a security code in your WhatsApp
Account or remotely doing so himself, while you are reading same to
him.
Having successfully hacked a victim's account, the hacker begins to
send spam messages to all the WhatsApp groups in which the innocent
victim is a participant, and can access other group member's' Whatsapp
number without security features, in furtherance of their scam.
Now, just Imagine if you belonged to about 20 WhatsApp groups, it
then means you have just given the hacker, a scam access to about 5000
group members. You will no longer have control over your WhatsApp
account as the hacker utilizes your Whatsapp as if it were you.
The hacker can also send private chats to your loved ones, asking for
CBN has no plan to close Community Associations' accounts—Investigations help or requesting for money, as if you were the person requesting
he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has said it did not direct Deposit Money Banks to seize funds in Community Associations' TECH-SAVY LAWYER OF THE NBA BENIN BRANCH same. The victim in this scenario, has simply compromised his or her
Savings Accounts. There has been apprehension among members of Community Development Associations, Cooperative Whatsapp account, by inputing the hacker’s code on their settings,
T Societies and social Clubs over reports that accounts held by such organizations which were not properly registered with the (THE LION BAR) which the victim unintentionally uses in helping the hacker gain access
Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) or appropriate government agencies would be closed and their funds seized. Anxiety among
to his Whatssap Account.
members of the affected associations heightened following a podcast that had gone viral on social media on the subject. DOUGLAS OGBANKWA HINTS
A lady had claimed in the podcast that all associations which failed to regularise their documentation before July 12, 2022 would lose The hacker can also use your account to spread fake news that may
their funds and advised them to quickly withdraw their savings. She had attached a letter written by a DMB to its corporate account have national security implications and put you in jeopardy or in legal
holders as proof. However, investigations by Vanguard indicated that there was no such directive by the CBN. ON SOCIAL MEDIA PROTECTION harm's way.
A top official of CBN who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “How can a bank take-over anybody's or any group's money? That's Douglas Ogbankwa is a seasoned legal practitioner with his practice It is therefore, advisable for Administrators of WhatsApp groups to
not possible. What the bank said was that associations and the like should regularize their accounts in accordance with CAMA always check their groups intermittently, to ascertain the security and
base in Benin City, Edo State, the heart beat of the nation. He is a lawyer
provisions and nothing more.” As learnt, the associations were expected to register with either CAC or Ministry of Trade &
with a passionate technology drive and is known for his routine insight sanctity of same otherwise, they could be vicariously liable for any
Cooperatives, depending on the status of the organizations and that there was nothing to panic about. The directive of the apex bank, it
was learnt, was to ensure appropriate compliance with the Know Your Customer (KYC) requirement in the Nigerian banking sector. into instructive ways to secure ones communication gadgets as well as crime or criminality perpetuated by hackers on their group according to
It was gathered that some banks failed to strictly adhere to the policy which prompted the CBN to issue the directive to ensure that lending his voice on topical national issues. the Cyber Crime (Prohibition) Act, 2015, which is the extant Law that
members of such associations compiled by regularizing their documents. Ogbankwa speaks on ways to safeguard your WhatsApp account. HE regulates Cyber Activities in Nigeria.
SAID: Safeguarding your WhatsApp Account against hackers. It is now When You start seeing messages of bogus investments plans with
a common feature among scammers to call someone on the phone who is credit alert extracts in your Whatsapp group, that most certainly means
Kerosene hits over N800/litre, Nigerians face hard times in a group to compromise their WhatsApp account, for purposes of that a member's WhatsApp account may have been compromised.
perpetrating fraud or scam. You must therefore, be very careful and
smart when you receive such calls. Never allow them to speak for too WHAT TO DO IF HACKED
he price of kerosene used by several families have jumped to N800 per litre just
as the market is beginning to adjust to the newly increased petrol and gas long, END THE CALL IMMEDIATELY If your Account has been hacked, you can google the contact details of
T prices. Market survey by The PUNCH on Tuesday August 2, 2022 showed that When you are in a WhatsApp Group and you notice that someone's WhatsApp Inc. in America, and report same, and they will help you
one litre of cooking kerosene, sold for N700 last week, now sells for between N800 security code changes, it is most likely that his or her WhatsApp number retrieve your Account as well as track the hacker
and N850 in urban parts of Lagos State, while the price has hit as high as N1000 per has just been hacked. More so, you can delete your WhatsApp Account immediately,
litre in suburb areas at filling stations. In Ghana, the price of a litre of cooking You should reach out to such group member privately via a direct phone download a new one, and then secure same by imputing your 6 digit
kerosene currently sells for GHS 12.044 (N585) per litre. Unlike petrol, kerosene is a
call, to ascertain whether or not they actually did change their WhatsApp security code. Note that if you delete your WhatsApp Account, you will
deregulated product-meaning that prices are determined by market forces. It's a
deregulated market. It is also a function of the dollar to naira rate and the crude price number's security code. If the answer is in the negative, kindly remove automatically exit all groups you belong to, including the ones you
at the international market. Since cooking kerosene is deregulated, prices can go up, the person immediately from the WhatsApp group, until they secure created.
it can also come down, says IPMAN, Mike Osatuyi . their phone code. In view of this development, I strongly admonish you to follow this
As of June, the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics, NBS, had reported an 88 percent rise in This is for the safety of all other members on the group; If your procedure to secure your WhatsApp Account:
prices of cooking kerosene and Liquefied Petroleum Gas within one year. Go to the icons on the right hand side of your WhatsApp home page;
WhatsApp account was hacked you should delete your WhatsApp
According to the NBS report on “National Household Kerosene Price Watch,” the price of cooking kerosene went up by 86.94 percent
Account immediately and download a new one, while ensuring that you Then select settings on your WhatsApp Icons and click on Account.
in one year. The report also said that the average retail price per litre of household kerosene, paid by consumers in May 2022 increased
by 15.21 percent on a month-to-month basis from N589.82 in April 2022 to N679.54 in May 2022. input your 6 digits whatsapp security code known to only you. Click on the Two step verification prompt and enter your 6 digit pin, a
The state profile analysis showed that the highest average price per litre in May 2022 was recorded in Enugu with N868.75, followed HOW THE HACKERS OPERATE pin you can remember and then confirm your pin, For certainty of
by Ebonyi with N861.11 and Imo with N801.67. On the other hand, the lowest price was recorded in Bayelsa with N558.06, followed The hackers could call a name you are familiar with on a WhatsApp purpose, use a pin you are familiar with, or use a synchronized but
by Yobe with N601.39, and Nasarawa with N603.33. In addition, the South-East recorded the highest average retail price per litre of group and claim the person's identity. They will then say: "We are secure pin for all your online transactions, and keep same very secret,
household kerosene with N773.09, followed by the South-West with N738.19, and the North-Central with N668.78, while the North- because once it is compromised, all your accounts and online platforms
holding a WhatsApp meeting in our WhatsApp group by 6p.m today, I
East reported the lowest with N632.06.
want to send you an access code, then you read it back to me" will be in jeopardy.
An energy expert, Bala Zakka, while speaking in an exclusive chat with our correspondent, attributed the sharp increase in the price of
the products to Nigeria's continued inability to refine petroleum products for local consumption. Executive Secretary, Depot and PLEASE, Once they send you the code, DO NOT ever read the code Input a valid email address and confirm your email, then save.
Petroleum Products Marketers' Association of Nigeria, DAPPMAN, Olufemi Adewole, said in an interview that the reason behind the back to them because once you do so, they have a soft ware that remotely Therefore, we must all take steps to secure and safeguard our social
continuous rise in prices of cooking kerosene was the exchange rate. “Cooking kerosene is deregulated so prices depend on foreign inputs the code on your WhatsApp Account, while reading it to them. media handles so we can protect others
exchange. A dollar is now N700 from N600 just last month, so prices will surely increase,” he said. The Executive Secretary of the It is worse when you do not have a security code, because when you do
Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria, MOMAN, Clement Isong, could not be reached for his comment on the matter as at the
not have a security code on your WhatsApp account, it can be easily
time of filing this report.
hacked. That means the hacker could substitute your Whatsapp number

LEGAL
PERISCOPE
Adeleke Alex-Adedipe Chairman Capital Market Solicitors
Association CMSA 2022 Annual Business Luncheon speaks on
Mr Adeleke Alex-Adedipe is a partner at Duale, Ovia and Alex-
Adedipe, a full-service commercial law firm. He is Chairman of
the Annual Business Luncheon of the Capital Market Solicitors
Association (CMSA).
In this interview he speaks on the role of the CMSA in the capital
market, its contributions to the development of its legal
framewok, membership and the 2022 luncheon
QUESTION:
Ë Law is seen from different perspectives. What is your
guiding philosophy?
The law is an important tool for social engineering and more
importantly, it should be used as a means of utility. The law is a
double-edged sword and it is our duty as lawyers, lawmakers,
policymakers, etc to wield same in the course of justice.
Ë Does the Capital Market Solicitors Association (CMSA)
have the same philosophy?
The CMSA was established with the primary objective of
addressing the marginalization of solicitors in capital market
operations vis-à-vis other professionals, such as accountants,
and stockbrokers. It is set up primarily as a platform to articulate
and promote the interest of legal practitioners specializing or
dealing in capital market transactions. The Association is also
concerned with developing the legal framework within which
the capital market operates and pursues these objectives by
organizing training sessions, workshops and seminars for its
members on topical issues arising in the capital market.
Ë How have you engaged with the regulators or government
agencies in addressing these gaps?
The Association is recognized by the Securities and Exchange
Commission (SEC) as a registered trade group representing the
interests of solicitors engaged in capital markets activities. We
play a strategic role in the development of the capital market.
More interestingly, we also work with the SEC to ensure we
develop and create a more robust capital market space. We do our
best to implement innovatively, some changes discussed with the
Commission.
Ë How would you rate CMSA in terms of contribution to the
development of the legal framework for capital market
LAW PARLIAMENT
3 AKPATA AND HIS NEW BRIDE
operations?
I believe the Association has done well over the past years to
drive conversation within the sector. For example, we have to
consider the Annual Business Luncheon, which carefully
examines topical issues in the capital market. There is no gain-
saying that the Association has been very impactful and has been
a pillar in the capital market space in Nigeria
Ë .Why the choice of the theme for the 2022 CMSA Annual
Business Luncheon?
The theme was "Capital market and syndicate funding:
Availability of capital market to small scale investors." The
dynamism of Nigeria's capital market has provided an
opportunity for small-scale businesses to explore varying
avenues to access funding. However, due to the peculiar
economic conditions within Nigeria and the scarcity of
information concerning investment options for small-scale,
businesses, entrepreneurs and business owners tend to overlook
the Nigerian capital market when considering funding options.
Ë Who were those qualified to attend the Luncheon?
Professionals within the legal space, capital market ecosystem
and other capital market enthusiasts.
Ë Who were the sponsors of the luncheon?
The Luncheon was organised by the Capital Market Solicitors
Association (CMSA) with sponsorships from member firms,
private companies and other individuals.
Ë Can you run us through the programme by way of recall?
The programme was studded with interesting conversations to
navigate the possibility of startups and SMEs accessing funds
and finances within the capital market. There was a keynote
speech from Temi Poopola of NGX Ltd on the importance of the
event, and a Fireside chat with Mr. Tomiwa Aladekomoon of
Big Cabal on "Capital market startup and financing for SMEs:
Options & current obstacles for capital raising".
Ë Why was SMEs' access to the capital market in focus?
Access to finance is a major factor hindering Small and Medium
Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria from optimally performing their
role as catalysts to economic development. In search of a way
forward, the luncheon focused on how SMEs in the country
could access funding through the capital market. The event held
on June 23, 2022 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Victoria Island,
Lagos. There was also a panel session on "Capital market startup,
financing and syndicate funding: ability of SMEs to access the
capital market". The session was moderated by Mr Vincent
Iweze, Partner, Pentagon Partners and Vice Chairman, CMSA,
while the panellists were Gbadebo Adenrele, MD, United
Capital; Funso Akere, Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Capital;
Zelda Akindele, Partner, Templars; and Olu Oyinsan, Managing
Partner, Oui Capital.
Ë Who qualifies to be a member of the CMSA?
Membership of the CMSA is open to law firms that are registered
with SEC as solicitors and market operators. Upon such interest,
the executives of the CMSA shall audit prospective members on
behalf of the Association.
LAW PARLIAMENT
12
As if to put one more icing on the cake, The NBA President on May THE BIG FIVE WHO DELIVERED THE 2022
14, 2022, took another Bold walk this time down the aisle, and NBA NATIONAL ELECTIONS
became joined to his long time heartthrob, Osayamon Ogbebor
Michelle. The bride is said to be a senior Manager at Central AYODELE AKINTUNDE SAN,
FCIArb (UK), Carb, FBR.
Securities Clearing System (CSCS).
Ayodele Graduated from the
The traditional marriage was held in the bride's compound at
university of ife in 1984 and was
called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985.
Ekenwan Road, in Benin city, Edo State, while the reception was
held at Air Force Military Base, in Airport Road, Benin, Edo State.
He is the founding partner of the
Law Firm of Ayodele Akintunde &
Co. a full service law firm based in
The ceremony saw top notch dignitaries in Nigeria, gracing the lagos, Nigeria with affiliate offices
occasion. Meanwhile, the couple will be joined in holy matrimony in Abuja and portharcourrt
on October 2, 2022 in far-away Mauritius.
Worthy of note is the fact that the various committees initated by the
MABEL EKEKE
Olumide Akpata's administration, has delivered on their respective
Mabel Ekeke is a partner
mandates, to the admiration of lawyers in Nigeria. Whereas, these atBabalakin and Co. and
beehive of landmark achievments by the Akpata Administration has undertakes a broad range of work in
been greeted with widespread commendations from lawyers, who the firm’s litigation, corporate and
commercial, financing and dispute
all agree that Akpata has effectively blazed the trail in the legal
resolution practice group. she also
space as the best NBA President in recent past, It is also important to work closely with the energy and
note that the list of his achievments as chronicled in this feature, are natural resources group
by no means exhausive. Posterity holds better details in the court of
history.
AKPATA INDEED, CAME, FOUGHT AND CONQUERED
AISHA ADO ABDULAHI
Aisha who is the Registrar of
the institute of chartered
mediators and conciliators is a
practicing Lawyer and the
managing partner of Green
LAW PARLIAMENT Edge Attorneys.
FEMALE LAWYER OF THE MOMENT
Theodora Kio Lawson
BASIL UDOTAI, Esq.,
Basil is the Managing Partner of
Theodora Kio Lawson worked as in-house counsel and Law Technology Advisors LLP, a
editor at the Business day Newspaper, which is Nigeria's technology law practice. He played
most influential business newspaper. pioneering roles in the legal and
Kio-Lawson has over the years, proved that women can regulatory reforms of the ICT
achieve great milestones in any aspect of human endeavours sector in Nigeria. Nowadays, he
they wish, once the zeal, will power and focus is present. works to position local and
She is a complete embodiment of a focus-driven legal international businesses to succeed
practitioner, who has played a prominent role in the growth in the digital economy.
of the Nigerian Bar Association section on Business Law
(NBA-SBL.) Kio-Lawson is the Pioneer Chairperson of the PROF. CHIDI ODINKALU
Lawyers in the Media LIM and is also director of the Chidi Anselm Odinkalu is a
Loorbrandbox Consult. Nigerian human rights activist,
Her diligence is revealed in the quality of her reports even as lawyer, professor and writer. He is
then editor in Business Day. the Chairman of Nigeria's National
A most amazing attribute of Kio-lawson is her passion for Human Rights Commission
quality work. She is open to anything' positive and treats (Nigeria) and was recently the
humanity with care, caution and a milk of human kindness. senior team manager for the Africa
Ladies and Gentlemen of the bar, presenting to you our Program of Open Society Justice
female lawyer of the moment THEODORA KIO-LAWSON Initiative
 LAW PARLIAMENT LAW PARLIAMENT
11 4
REMUNERATION COMMITTEE certain administrative matters are left to competent career NBA
This committee is to ensure that NBA members have better staff. The committee comprising 15 members is chaired by Joe
working conditions and earn decent wages. The committee is Abah, and co-chaired by Desmond Yamah.
made up of 15 members DIGITAL NBA COMMITTEE:
The committee, said to be closely related to the restructuring of
LEGAL EDUCATION COMMITTEE the secretariat, is to help the association to achieve its goal of
It was set up to drive the association's mandate of promoting and
digitising "most of its processes at the NBA and build a
advancing legal education in Nigeria as stipulated in the NBA
formidable platform that will allow for an easy and seamless
Constitution. It also comprises 15 members interface between members of the legal profession and the
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMMITTEE: Association". It also comprising 15 members
The NBA President said the #ENDSARS movement and the FINANCE COMMITTEE:
COVID-19 pandemic had significantly brought to the fore, theThe committee is saddled with the responsibility of preparing
need for the NBA to be at the forefront of the fight to defend
annual proposals for consideration by the National Executive
fundamental human rights in Nigeria. He also noted that there NBA BENIN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE NIGERIAN LEGAL COMMUNITY
Committee, exploring ways and means to raise funds for the WELCOMES 150 NEW WIGS TO THE BAR
were reports of unlawful arrests and detention, extrajudicial
association. Additionally, developing a framework that will make
AND PDSS HAILS EDO CP
killings and other forms of human rights violations across the
it easier for lawyers to access finance at concessionary rates for
ON SANITISATION PROCESS
Nigeria on Wednesday July 27, 2022 got a new batch of 1,507
country. He said while the NBA under his watch had in keeping
their capital expenditure and working capital purposes in order to The Nigerian Bar Association, Benin Branch, (Lion Bar) Human lawyers who were called to her Bar amid tight security provided
with the association's motto of 'Promoting the Rule of Law', it "has
enhance their practices. It is also made up of 15 members, Rights Committee (HRC) and Police Duty Solicitors Scheme by various security agencies in the country.
not relented in its quest to ensure that it remains the leading
DISPUTE RESOLUTION COMMITTEE (PDSS) has commended the Commissioner of Police, Edo State The new wigs were inaugurated at the Body of Benchers
watchdog organisation in Nigeria. The committee is constituted and empowered to resolve disputes CP Abutu Yaro (FDC), for Sanitising the Process of complaints at Complex in Abuja against Nigerian Law School premises,
He noted that "to better institutionalise our approach", the Human
between members of the association and will be supported to the Edo State Police Headquarters. owing to security concerns. Directory General of the Law
Rights Committee was set up "to drive the NBA agenda of carry out its functions as outlined in the NBA constitution. It is
School Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma revealed at the ceremony
promoting and protecting the Rule of Law and respect for the
made of 15 members and it is chaired by Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, In a statement issued in Benin City on Monday the 1st of August, that the event had to be hurriedly shifted from its customary
enforcement of fundamental human rights. It is a 15-member and co chaired by Nella Adem-Rabanna, SAN. 2022, by Chairperson of the NBA Benin HRC, Mrs Paula venue, to the Body of Benchers Complex
committee. EDITORIAL BOARD: Agbale, with the consent of Amaechi Nwaozer Esq., Team Lead, The Law School Director-General thanked the Chief of
LAW REFORM COMMITTEE: The Editorial Board is saddled with producing a reputable journal and the NBA Benin PDSS, they stated as follows: Defense Staff, Chief of Army, inspector General of Police,
This committee was set up to help the NBA quickly intervene in
for the NBA for the promotion and advancement of legal "We find it heartwarming and commendable that the Director General of State Service (DSS) Civil Defense
the legislative and law space in Nigeria. The committee, comprises
education, continuing legal education, advocacy and Commissioner of Police Edo State-CP Abutu Yaro, will allow Commandant and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for
of 15 members. jurisprudence. The committee has 15 members only Complainants or their Counsel, to initiate complaints before jointly providing adequate security and wise security
PUBLIC INTEREST LITIGATION COMMITTEE GENERAL PURPOSE COMMITTEE the Commissioner of Police Edo State. We stand with the counseling…
This committee was responsible for the filing of NBA's suit The committee, which has already been inaugurated, is Commissioner of Police in this regard even as we attest to the He said the new wigs have been found worthy in character and
challenging "the unconstitutional extension of the tenure of the
established by the NBA constitution and charged with the cooperation the CP, his Officers and men have extended to us in in academics, hence their induction into the Nigerian Bar as full
Inspector of General of Police beyond that provided under the
responsibility of screening prospective candidates for the award our activities. We also commend the CP's Zero Tolerance to fledged lawyers. Addressing the new lawyers, legal luminary
Police Act 2020." The association encouraged its members toof the rank of SAN in accordance with the provisions of the Legal impunity and Human Rights Abuses. and Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Chief Wole
approach the committee with issues of public importance that
Practitioners Act and performing other specific functions that We call on Members of the Public who have issues that require Olanipekun SAN charged them to be prepared to serve the
require the NBA's intervention through litigation. The committee
may be assigned to it from time to time. It is made up of 15 the Intervention of the Lion Bar with the Police in Edo State to country and humanity diligently without fear or favour.
is made up of 15 members members. call the following contacts: He reminded them that law is a noble profession that must be
ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMITTEE SPORTS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE Paula Agbale-Chairman protected and counseled them to always adhere strictly to the
The committee was set up to help the NBA actively support the
It is tasked with the responsibility of organising sports, Lizy iyamu Ojo- Secretary Human Rights Committee Code of Conduct of the profession.
fight against corruption, as a duty to the society. It is a 15-member
recreational and wellness programmes and activities for members +2348055232158, He further charged the new lawyers to always show respect and
committee across the country. It comprises 15 members with Yahaya Maikori Amaechi Nwadzor PDSS good conduct to their seniors as required by the code of
DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE designated as the chair and Cecilia Ugbuji as the co-chair.. Emmanuel Okorie -08032301666-PDSS. professional conduct.
It was set up to investigate cases of complaint of professional
CONSTITUTION REVIEW COMMITTEE: We will respond accordingly with dispatch. While celebrating their success as new lawyers, Olanipekun
impropriety or other misconduct against members of the bar and to
The committee is charged with coming up with a holistic review
warmed them against dancing in club houses with their bibs and
make appropriate recommendations. It is Made up 15 members,and amendment of the NBA constitution that can stand the test of The NBA Benin Branch runs a very robust engagement with the gowns adding that punitive action would be invoked against
FUTURE OF LEGAL PRACTICE COMMITTEE: time. Made up of 15 members, the committee is chaired by Yusuf Edo State Police Command, which includes the constitution of such conduct.
The committee is tasked with facilitating a significant Asamah Kadiri, SAN, and co-chaired by Afam Osigwe. the NBA Benin Bar Police Monitoring Committee led by He urged the new wigs to exhibit due respect for seniors at the
improvement in the quality and standard of the legal services that
TECHNICAL COMMITTEE ON CONFERENCE PLANNING Douglas Ogbankwa Esq. and the NBA Benin Edo State Police bar and desist from getting enrolled in a PHD which he
lawyers render to 21st century clients and lay the foundation for
FOR 2022 NBA AGC This latest committee was connstituted to Joint WhatsApp situation room, made up of officials of the Benin explained to mean PULL HIM OR HER DOWN. According to
the desired future. The committee is made up of 15 members.plan the 2022 Annual General Conference of the NBA Bar and the Police Management Team in Edo State, the only one him, the new lawyers must learn to appreciate those who blaze
SECRETARIAT RESTRUCTURING COMMITTEE: It is headed by Mr Tobenna Erojikwe as Chairman of the of its kind in Nigeria .We wish everyone a Happy New Month of the trail instead of seeking for their downfall..
The committee is to help the NBA entrench and institutionalise the
Committee as well as additional number of members of both the August. He wished all newly enrolled lawyers' success in their
ideals of a more professional and member-friendly national TCCP and the Local Organising Committee of the 2022 Signed :Mrs Paula Agbala, Chairman, NBA Benin Human endeavors
secretariat which run in an efficient manner and will ensure that
conference Rights Committee.

16TH ANNUAL BUSINESS LUNCHEON
OF THE NBA-SBL
The Public and Private Sector Can work together to redistribute risk if
positive trend is sustained says CEO Ghana Enterprise Agency (GEA)
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Enterprise Agency (GEA)
Kosi Yankey Ayeh has underscored the need for sustenance of positive
trend in the country to boost both public and private sector.
Ayeh made this known at the 16th Annual Business Luncheon of the
NBA Section of Business Law held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in the
FCT Abuja.
The Conference is themed Recent Development in the Business Law
Environment. She started by expressing delight to be in Nigeria which
she said felt just like home to her. According to her, Ghana and Nigeria
although not sharing similar borders surprisingly have a lot in common.
Speaking on the session tilted "New Trends for enabling business
startups in Africa a representative of the Ghana Enterprises Agency"
Ayeh noted that the instruments for creating a strong legal environment
are all in the NBA.
"The instruments for creating a strong legal environment are all in this the final voters register stood at 59,392 while about 3,000 were
Association, lawyers, prosecutors, judges and even some politicians. disenfranchised due to inability to verify their data.
This is a task no one can do but you as the NBA. This will prepare a
favorable landscape for the Nigerian entrepreneur to thrive and reach
their full potential," she said,
According to the CEO, "If current positive trends are sustained, I believe
the private and public sectors can work together to redistribute risk and
enhance financial flow to our innovators and entrepreneurs.
"Our goal must be to encourage enterprise within the context of fairness
and social progress” she said. Speaking on the Ghana Government's
intervention on the Youstart, Ayeh noted that between 2017 to 2021,
GEA, provided various interventions to over 680,000 persons with more
than 60% of these beneficiaries being women. She said that the support
included business formalization, access to finance, improvement in
productivity, and market access among others, adding that we are doing
our bit in preparing businesses to take advantage of the African
Continental Free Trade Area by forming partnerships with relevant
institutions to provide support to SMEs in branding and packaging, e-
Commerce and product certification through the Food and Drugs
Authority (FDA) and the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA).
Meanwhile, explaining the Transformation of NBSSI to GEA she said
"I took up the most obscure institution the National Board for Small
LAW PARLIAMENT
5 LAW PARLIAMENT
Scale Industries. Even the President asked if I was sure this was the
institution I wanted to run. I was clear in my mind what I could do and
what I wanted. For 20 years everyone wanted to change the ACT. Three
different documents. What changed? the policy, the bill and the act.
"We need to create the law and implement it. This was to create the
enabling environment to bring the stakeholders to the table.
"To enable business startups in Africa and in Ghana, something had to be
done. "This was done at the right time because the world changed a few
months after the transformation," she said,
Triplenet Law Parliament reports that the conference had in attendance
a large turnout of legal Practitioners from diver's fields
YAKUBU CHONOKO MAIKYAU SAN
TAKES THE LEAD AS NEW NBA PRESIDENT
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr
Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, has
emerged the 31st President of the
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA),
Tr i p l e n e t ' s L a w P a r l i a m e n t
reports.that Maikyau emerged as
winner, during the NBA elections
held on Saturday July 16, 2022 from
12.00.a.m. to 11.59 p.m. of same day.
He polled a total of 22,342 votes to
defeat two other contenders, Messrs
Joe-Kyari Gadzama (SAN), Chairman of the NBA Securities Agencies
Relations Committee; and Jonathan Taidi, a former General Secretary of
the NBA.
According to the Chairman of the NBA Electoral Committee, ECNBA,
Mr Ayodele Akintunde (SAN), who announced the results at a hybrid
press briefing held on Sunday July 17, 2022 the total number of people on
"A total of 59,392 records were received as people on final voters register,
and we were able to upload 59,388 records with four records being
invalid contact information. He said "A total of 34,809 votes were cast
representing 58.61 per cent of the total number of eligible voters, while
1,314 ballots opened but were not cast,".
Furthermore, Maikyau polled 22,342 votes representing 64.6 per cent of
votes cast for the office of the president, while Gadzama polled 10,842
votes and Taidi polled 1,380.
Triplenet reports that other winners at the elections include Mrs Linda
Bala as NBA First Vice President with a total of 21,717 votes
representing 66.3 per cent of votes cast for the office.
Mr Clement Ugo was elected NBA Second Vice President with a total of
11,377 votes representing 38.6 per cent of votes cast for the office.
Mrs Amanda Demechi-Asagba, President of the African Women
Lawyers Association, emerged NBA Third Vice President with a total of
19,602 votes representing 64.6 per cent of votes cast for the office.
Mr Adesina Adegbite won election for the office of NBA General
Secretary with a total of 18,536 votes representing 56.2 per cent of votes
cast for the office.
Mr Daniel Kip emerged NBA Assistant General Secretary with a total of
and he had assured them of his administration's commitment to
running an all-inclusive Bar.
EASE OF DOING BUSINESSES AT THE CAC:
Prior to his election into office, there had been numerous
complaints about the delay in service delivery at the CAC. Given
the central role that the CAC plays in the professional lives of
members, the Akpata-led administration had set up a Presidential
Task Force to look into the complaints, identify the issues and
engage the Registrar-General of the CAC with a view to finding
workable solutions.
ELIGIBILITY FOR SAN RANK
The Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee ("LPPC") had
published the names of potential awardees of the prestigious rank
of SAN for 2020. To assist with the process of selecting the most
suitable awardees for the rank, the administration had
empanelled the General Purposes Committee (one of the standing
committees under the NBA Constitution) which was charged
with screening prospective candidates for the award of the rank of
SAN in accordance with the provisions of the Legal Practitioners
Act.
KIDNAPPED LAWYER
A lawyer, Mr. Uyi Frank Obayagbona, of the NBA Abuja Branch
was kidnapped around Edo State in the month of September
2020. Working closely with the Commissioner of Police Edo
State, the NBA was able to secure his release from the kidnappers.
BRANCH VISITS
In keeping with the campaign promise of visiting as many
branches as possible during his tenure, the Akpata-led
administration commenced visit to NBA 125 branches in
September 2020, with a view to creating a synergy between the
branches and the national body, understanding the peculiar
challenges of each branch and working with their leadership to
proffer solutions. The administration visited and had interactive
sessions with legal practitioners in Lafia, Keffi, Ungongo, Kano,
Warri, Effurun, Asaba among others.
In his visit to Nasarawa and Kano States, he had urged the
Governors to pay more attention to the Judiciary in the areas of
financial autonomy, infrastructure of courts and Judges' welfare.
IKEJA BRANCH CRISIS
There had been a brewing crisis threatening to engulf the Ikeja
Branch of the NBA as a result of the forthcoming elections of the
branch which had resulted into at least two separate lawsuits. To
forestall a full-blown and intractable crisis, the NBA had
convened a meeting of stakeholders of the branch to deliberate
and brainstorm on the way forward. At the end of the meeting, the
NBA had directed a postponement of the elections at the time,
which was originally fixed for 29 September 2020) utill further
notice in order to allow for a proper resolution. The Akpata
administration had also set up a caretaker committee to manage
the branch following the expiration of the term of the caretaker
committee appointed by his predecessor.
SUPPORTING THE WELFARE OF JUDGES
The administration also traveled to Port Harcourt to participate in
the commissioning of JCA Quarters donated to the Court of
10
Appeal by the Rivers State Government and the Chinwe Aguma
Judges Quarters built and furnished by the Rivers States
Government for serving Judges of the State High Court on an
owner/occupier basis. He had decided to participate at both
events because the welfare of judicial officers is crucial and
directly affects the ability of lawyers to practice their profession
proficiently and profitably.
WELCOMING NEW WIGS
On 14 September 2020, the administration attended a meeting of
the Body of Benchers which was a prelude to the Call to Bar
Ceremony, and also joined the Benchers in welcoming 1,758
"new wigs" into the profession and into the NBA.
INVASION OF HON. JUSTICE MARY ODILI'S (Rtd) HOME
The Akpata-led NBA had condemned in strong terms, the
October 29, 2021 invasion of Supreme Court judge, Mary Odili's
home. In a statement, Akpata, had described the act as an "affront
on the judiciary, designed to intimidate and ridicule it".
Following the outcry by the NBA, as well as its bold and effective
steps taken in this regards, some culprits were apprehended by
the police.
COMMITTEES OF THE NBA
The Akpata-led NBA had also set up standing committees on
various thematic areas including the judiciary, human rights,
anti-corruption, among others. Akpata had noted that section 12
of the NBA constitution "establishes 11 Standing Committees
and provides their terms of reference" but added that the
constitution "also empowers the National Executive Committee
(NEC) to constitute Ad hoc Committees to deal with issues and
matters as circumstances may dictate. He noted that in this
regard, his administration have set up the Standing Committees
as well as Ad hoc Committees with terms of reference that covers
several thematic areas that require urgent intervention in a bid to
realise NBA's resolve to build an association that works for all.
THE SECURITIES AGENCIES RELATIONS COMMITTEE
(NBA-SARC)
Following the surge in cases of maltreatment of legal
practitioners by security operatives whilst discharging their
official duties and obligations to clients the Akpata led
administration of the NBA had at its NEC meeting set up the NBA
- Securities Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC) to
work in liaison with all security agencies across the country to
forestall the ugly trend. In furtherance of the above, the
Committee was inaugurated on the 7th day of January 2022.
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE:
It was set up to "ensure a systemic and coordinated approach to
dealing with the judiciary, and to ensure a continually improved
bar and bench relationship". The committee with 15 members is
chaired by Babatunde Ajibade, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria
(SAN), and co-chaired by Ade Okeaya-Inneh, SAN.
WELFARE COMMITTEE
It was constituted to implement a workable healthcare insurance
scheme and negotiate an upward review of benefits under the
NBA Life Assurance Policy with the association's insurance
policy provider. The committee comprises 15 members

OLUMIDE AKPATA AND THE NBA UNDER HIS WATCH
The Man who Came, Fought and Conquered (A Bold Transition)
Corporate Lawyer and Senior Partner at Templars, Olumide
Akpata On August 28, 2020 was sworn in as the 30th President of
the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). Akpata, made remarkeable
history as the first lawyer to emerge president of the NBA before
attaining the revered rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
He had contested against two SANS Messrs Delle Adesina and
Babatunde Ajibade, in an election conducted by the legal body
between July 29 and 30, 2020
The swearing-in ceremony, was held at the NBA building in
Abuja, coinciding with the hallmark of the 60th Annual General
Conference of the Association. Akpata was sworn in before a
large number of lawyers by his predecessor in office, Mr. Paul
Usoro SAN., after which Akpata performed his first assignment
of swearing in other members of his cabinet.
In his inauguration speech, the NBA president had promised to
run an all-inclusive Bar, and had pledged to work hard towards
justifying the confidence reposed in him and his executive.
"The Bar I want to lead is that which is united as one force; But
this task cannot be achieved if we divide at a time we should be
united." Akpata had said “He also promised numerous reforms,
including the body's electoral process, which he said, ought to be
the standard for others to follow, as well as establish an efficient
data management system for NBA, as lack of database of voters
was a threat to credible elections.”
S O M E H I G H L I G H T S O F T H E A K P AT A - L E D
ADMINISTRATION'S ACHIEVEMENTS
ELECTORAL AUDIT AND REFORMS COMMITTEE
The Administration of Olumide Akpata established an Electoral
Audit and Reforms Committee, comprising distinguished
practitioners of the highest calibre to audit the 2016, 2018 and
2020 elections and recommend reforms for future electoral
systems and processes. This was considered important so as to
restore the confidence of lawyers and the society in the NBA
electoral system. The committee was thus, inaugurated.
LAW PARLIAMENT
9 10,071 votes representing 31.7 per cent votes cast for the office.
PARLEY WITH NORTHERN LEADERS:
The Akpata's Administration also held a crucial meeting with
the Chairmen of about 40 branches of the NBA in the Northern
Geopolitical Zone and some leaders of the Bar in the North.
That meeting was to reassure every one of the administration's
interest in uniting the Bar and running a truly egalitarian
association in which each member's rights will be respected. All
40 Chairmen and leaders had reaffirmed their support for, and
commitment to, the NBA.
DEATH SENTENCE APPEAL
You may recall that a certain Yahaya Sharif-Aminu was
sentenced to death by the Kano State Upper Sharia Court for
alleged blasphemy and was denied access to lawyers for his
appeal. As a mark of the Akpata led NBA's commitment to
human rights and rule of law, the NBA intervened to provide
him with access to justice. The Administration also visited the
Kano State Grand Khadi and, on that visit, commended the
affirmation of Yahaya Aminu's constitutional right of appeal.
CHIEF JUDGE OF CROSS RIVER STATE
The office of the Chief Judge ("CJ") of CRS had remained
vacant for about a month following: (i) the refusal, by the State
House of Assembly to confirm Hon. Justice Akon Ikpeme as
substantive CJ; and (ii) the expiration of the 3-month tenure of
Hon. Justice Maurice Odey Eneji, who took office in acting
capacity. The NBA intervened by stressing that Hon. Justice
Akon Ikpeme be appointed in line with the recommendation of
the National Judicial Council ("NJC") and the judicial tradition
of appointing the most senior judicial officer as Chief Judge.
In addition, the administration visited the Chief Justice of
Nigeria at the time, (in his capacity as Chairman of the NJC),
alongside the Attorney-General of Cross River State to seek the
CJN's intervention in the matter.
RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT 2007 ("RPC")
In 2020, The RPC was purportedly amended by the Honourable
Attorney-General of the Federation ("HAGF"). With regards to
the above, the Akpata-led administration had met with the AGF
and had also written to him and made it abundantly clear that the
purported amendments cannot stand having been made contrary
to extant law. Akpata had stated that While he believes that the
RPC and the Legal Practitioners Act were due for amendment,
these amendments must be comprehensive and reflective of the
21st century realities of the Nigerian lawyer and must follow
due process.
LAWYERS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
The administrator had also met with the Association of Lawyers
with Disabilities in Nigeria to discuss and understand their
peculiar challenges within the Bar. He had pledged that the
NBA will be more sensitive to the needs of not just lawyers with
disabilities but also every senior citizen in the NBA.
AN ALL INCLUSIVE BAR
The administration had a meeting with the leadership of the Law
Officers Association of Nigeria during which he got a better
appreciation of the salient issues affecting law officers in
Nigeria
LAW PARLIAMENT
for the honour done to me and my team by this election. I cannot thank
6
Mrs Caroline Anze-Bishop was elected NBA Treasurer with a total of you enough. I also appreciate all members of the Branch for the support,
12,012 votes representing 37.4 percent of votes cast for the office. words of encouragement, and congratulatory messages in respect of this
Ms Chinyere Obasi emerged NBA Welfare Secretary with a total of election. Kudos to all elected members of the Executive Committee.
10,452 votes representing 32.4 per cent of votes cast for the office. As opined by my immediate predecessor Mr J.T. OGUNNIYI in July,
Mr Habeeb Lawal was elected NBA Publicity Secretary with a total of 2020, "this is a joint ticket'. I look forward to a robust working
17,650 votes representing 53.5 per cent of votes cast for the office. relationship with you towards delivering maximally on our campaign
Mr Charles Ajiboye won election for the office of NBA Assistant promises. As you are aware, it is sacrosanct that we must deliver on the
Publicity Secretary with a total 17,811 votes representing 57.1 per cent social contract we have with our members.
of votes cast for the office. Once again, I indeed appreciate and celebrate all the outgoing Executives,
The elections were through electronic voting. for keeping the branch together these past two years. I have learnt
Maikyau succeeds Mr Olumide Akpata who was elected in 2020. humility, love and maturity from the actions and unsaid words of our
Akpata had made history as the only NBA President in the past 10 years noble Chairman - Mr. J.T. Ogunniyi who has tremendously built
who is not a senior advocate of Nigeria. monumental legacies after the revolutionary legacies of our Chairman
Emeritus, Isaac Omuta Ogbah. I wish each and every outgoing Executive
member the best in their future endeavours. We will surely consolidate on
EMERGES NEE BRANCH CHAIRMAN the legacies of our heroes and successive administrations.
OF NBA OTA BAR I commend the friends of ADEGOKE ADEWALE and, especially, my
campaign team for a job well done. I specially commend Learned Seniors,
Otunba Olumide Akinbinu and Akin Folarin, for their sagacious words of
encouragement. I commend our Emeritus Secretary, Pius Abraham, for
his lavish positive influences. I must appreciate our VC Emeritus, Ismail
Akinfenwa for his invaluable support. Words will not be enough to
express my appreciation to Ademola Ige. [DG, Campaign), Funmilola
Williams [Mrs], Alao Oluremi [Mrs.] Ajibola Olaolu, Okeke
Onyekachukw Esq, Chinelo Olayanju [Mrs] for their tenacity,
steadfastness, and hard work. It has finally turned to praise. I commend all
bar leaders particularly Chief Ibukun Oremodu, Ipade Awolowo. and
A.O. ADEGOKE ESQ. ACIAbr
Monzor Owoyemi, for their supports. I cannot repay the debt of gratitude
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ota Branch, well known and
owe you all.
referred to as the "UTTER BAR" on Tuesday, 28th June, 2022 elected
I once again thank everyone who contributed in one way or the other to the
its officers that would pilot the affairs of the Branch for the next two (2)
success we are celebrating today. It is my prayer that God Almighty will
years, effective 22nd of July, 2022. In an election that was reportedly
reward everyone a zillion fold. I must commend members of the Branch
peaceful, cordial and devoid of any rancor or disaffection, MR. A.O.
Electoral Committee for a job well done despite daunting challenges. I
ADEGOKE emerged as the Chairman elect with MR. AYODEJI
commend the Chairperson, R.E. Itua [Mrs.], Kareem Kelani, Odunfa
ISIOLAOTAN ESQ. emerging as the Vice Chairman elect.
Adedapo. & Miss Adenike Adeleke for their wisdom and dexterity in
Other elected officers include:
delivering the election without strife, let me seize this opportunity to state
O.T. AJELE ESQ. (SECRETARY)
that this Branch belongs to all of us. The welfare of members is of
A.K. ABDULKAREEM ESQ. AICMC (TREASURER)
paramount importance to us and we shall deliver on this covenant.
F.S. ADEGBESAN ESQ. (SOCIAL SECRETARY)
We expect everyone of us to contribute his/her quota to the growth and
O. A. OKEKE ESQ (ASST. SECRETARY)
development of the Branch by participating in different committees and
A.A. IGE ESQ. (PROVOST)
programmes of the Branch towards raising the luster of our Branch in the
The newly elected NBA Chairman has so rolled out his acceptance
comity of NBA branches and repositioning our Branch as the Branch to
speech below.
beat as we take steps to usher in greater impacts for our members and the
ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY ADEGOKE ADEWALE, ESQ. -
Branch. On our part, we promise to uphold the Nigerian Bar Association
CHAIRMAN-ELECT, NBA OTA BRANCH
Constitution, enabling Bye-laws and implement programmes that will
Distinguished Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Elders of our Great
bring massive developmental impacts to the affairs of the Branch.
Branch, Learned Seniors, and Honourable Colleagues, permit me to
God bless us all.
express my profound gratitude to God Almighty for this peaceful
Long live NBA Ota Branch!
election. I thank every eligible voter who took time out of their busy
Long live Nigerian Bar Association!
schedule to vote at the NBA Ota Branch election of June 28, 2022. Your
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
determination and keen interest leading to your qualification to vote and
your actual exercise of your voting obligation today is highly ADEGOKE, A.O. ESQ.
commendable. Word are not enough to convey my deep appreciation Chairman NBA Ota Branch

NBA SBL 2022
ANNUAL BUSINESS LAW CONFERENCE
Conference framer and Chairman NBA SBL, Mr. Ayuli Jemide
sheds light on Choice of 2022 theme, Venue and keynote speaker
“He says the 2022 Conference is his last conference as NBA-SBL
Chairman.
” The 2022 Edition of the NBA SBL Conference which kick
started on July 20, 2022, came to an end on July 22, 2022 after all
the robust plenary sessions had been beautifully driven home by
the carefully selected resource persons.
The Chairman of the NBA SBL, Mr Ayuli Jemide who is the
conference framer gave an insight as to the choice of the
conference theme 2022. He said: A few things about this year's
conference:
ON THE THEME OF THE CONFERENCE:
As a central theme, we thought we should have conversations
pertaining to "Recent Developments in the Business Law
Environment". A lot has been happening in the lawyering
landscape that is worth talking about, from new legislations, to
new trends, to recent law firm management successions, and
several other topics worth talking about.
ON THE CHOICE OF VENUE:
The 2022 Annual Conference was SBL's first physical Annual
conference since 2019 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. We
thought to choose a venue capable of accommodating the number
of people itching to attend a physical SBL Conference and Abuja
seemed a natural choice for reasons of access and infrastructure.
As expected, we had a surge of prospective attendees and had to
close registration at 850 physical persons in attendance.
CHOICE OF KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Last year we had our first
female keynote speaker in the person of Wendy Okolo. Wendy
Okolo is a Nigerian-American aerospace research engineer in the
Intelligent Systems Division at NASA Ames Research Center.
She is the first Black woman to obtain a Ph. D. degree in
aerospace engineering from University of Texas at Arlington.
She has also been the youngest Keynote speaker at an SBL
Conference at the age of 32.
This year we decided to field yet another young and dynamic
female keynote speaker in the person of Kosi Yankey Ayeh who is
currently the Chief Executive Office Ghana Enterprise Agency.
LAW PARLIAMENT
7 LAW PARLIAMENT
APPRECIATION
I will want to give special thanks to every single member of the
Conference Planning Committee for the wonderful experience at
this year's conference. I must specifically mention:
CPC Chairman: Mr Chike Obianwu,
CPC Vice-Chair: Ayoyinka Olajide-Awosedo
Fundraising Co-Chairs: Folasade Alli, Sola Dosunmu and
Mofesomo Tayo-Oyetibo, Osahon Uhuangho
Programs & Content Chairperson and Vice-Chairman: Bukola
Bankole & Chudi Ofili
Technology Co-Chairmen: Rotimi Ogunyemi, Moses Faya
Venue and Accommodation Chairman: Perenami Momodu
Sponsorship Benefits Chairperson: Christine Sijuwade
Chair, Media & Publicity Theodora Kio-Lawson
Local Organizing Committee Chairmen: Marx Ikongbeh &
Chinenye Uwanak
For me in particular, this year's conference is my last conference
as SBL Chairman and the last Conference for SBL Council 2020
to 2022. That said, I will like to seize this opportunity to salute
those former SBL Chairmen who have held the helm in the past in
the sequence of George Etomi, Mfon Usoro, Gbenga Oyebode,
Asue Ighodalo, Olumide Akpata and Seni Adio SAN.
The NBA SBL in line with its tradition of a seamless transition
will be holding elections this month of August 2022 and changing
guards on the 25th of August 2022. I use this time to wish the
incoming brigade (Council 2022-2024) the best of luck and
greased elbows.
Before close, I would like to leave them and the entire SBL
community with this quote by Albert Einstein: "Life is like riding
a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving". SBL
has kept moving from inception and needs to just keep moving.
Once again thank you all
40 LAUDABLE SNIPPETS OF ACHIEVEMENT
OF THE PIUS I. OIWOH LED BENIN BRANCH OF THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION,
1. Presentation of budget to
the General House for
approval, the first of its
kind in the history of NBA
Benin Branch.
2. Provision and distribution
of High quality Lion
Diaries and Journals to
members for two years
now, becoming an annual practice to members with
updated information of the Courts across the Country and
Security helplines, synergizing with Civil Society
Organizations in calling on the relevant authorities to
shore up the security architecture of the State.
3. Organizing the very first NBA Benin Children's
Christmas party under the office of the Social Secretary.
4. Celebration of Human Rights Day
5. Navigation of Social Media Platforms of the Branch
from multiple WhatsApp platforms to one single official
telegram platform and a Single Socials Telegram
Platform.
6. Advocacy and intervention on Security Related
Matters concerning the Vulnerable that has resulted in
the release of countless persons.
7. Organizing an exquisite Annual Dinner with a
Ceremony, that was the talk of the Town with lavish
food and exquisite drinks.
8. Tightening the noose on fake lawyers which has led to
the arraignment of some fake lawyers at the Magistrate
Court.
9. Intervening in the arrest of persons in the aftermath of
the End-Sars protest that led to the release of countless
number of persons found innocent.
10. Prompt intervention in any matter involving lawyers
with Security Agency by mobilizing the Legal Adviser
and Welfare officer to any Security Outfit with
promptness.
11. Intervention in the health Affairs of Members by
galvanizing support for members in ensuring that
financial support is provided for them.
12. Constituting through the NBA Benin Young Lawyers
Forum a Robust Legal Team to provide Free Legal
services to the Vulnerable in the Justice Ada
Ehigiamusoe led Edo State ENDSARS Panel.
13. Policy Advocacy on important issues of state
concerning the three organs of Government.
14. Setting up a covid-19 Regulations Human Rights
Watch Committee to ensure observance of respect for
Human Rights in the enforcement of Covid-19
Regulations in Edo State.
15. Organizing with Civil Society Organization in calling
on the relevant authorities to shore up the security
architecture of the State.
16. First ever nine lesson and carol jointly organized by
the NBA and the Edo State Judiciary.
17. Acquisition of land and rapid development of some to
have the NBA recreation centre and multipurpose
building.
18. Provision of NBA Branded podium.
19. Changing the chairs at the Constance Momoh Hall.
20. Complete re-roofing of the Bar House with step tiles to
solve the long standing problem of leakage and plans to
completely beautify the Hall with POP.
21. Installation of WIFI services at the Bar House by Dele
Edokpayi Esq, tightening the noose on fake lawyers
which has led to the arraignment of some fake lawyers at
the Magistrate Court.
22. Construction of a Gymnasium and guest House at the
Bar House extension,
23. Rejuvenation of social media platforms of the Branch
WhatsApp group.
8
24. Giving out of stipends to members who got married
and members who were bereaved.
25. Stationeries and meeting signposts donated by Chief
Nosa Edo-Osagie.
26. Refurbishment of the conference room with the full
compliments of conference tables, chairs and electronic
devices, servicing of all the air-conditioners at the Bar
House for optimum use.
27. Refurbishment of the offices of the Chairman and
Secretary with brand new furniture and repainting of
same.
28. Ensuring members get their stamp and seal promptly at
no extra cost.
29. Improved relationship with the Judiciary under the
dynamic leadership of the Hon. Justice J.I. Acha, Acting
Chief Judge and his predecessor in office, Hon. Justice
E.A. Edigin, which has led to the provision of a parcel of
land to the Bar.
30. Provision of a cloak room and spaces for the Bar notice
board donated by Jefferson Woghiren, strengthening the
various committees of the Bar through invitation to
regularly update members at monthly meetings.
31. Galvanizing support for sick members by paying
visits, raising funds and making donations to them.
32. The appointment at a goal of 4 new Senior Advocates
of Nigeria, distinguished Members of the Lion Bar.
33. Regular and unbroken requests by Distinguished
Members of the Bar to host at monthly meetings where
members are lavishly treated.
34. Training of over 100 Lawyers with certifications in
dispute resolution under the sponsorship of a German
firm, Edo State Multi doors Court House and other
trainings by ROLAC, Rule of Law and Anti Corruption.
35. . Improved relationship between the Bar and other
bodies through courtesy visits and synergy
36. Establishment of Police Duty Solicitors Scheme
PDSS, and LACT, Legal Aid Coordinating Team, under
the sponsorship of ROLAC.
37. Organizing a health week for members under the office
of the Welfare Secretary amongst others.
38. Approving a new fees regime for Lawyers to meet with
the present economic reality thus enhancing the welfare
of Lawyers.
39. Putting in place a stress-less and convenient mode of
payment of dues and BPF by deployment of Bank
officials to station in the Bar House.
The above lists are by no means exhaustive as the
administration of Pius Oiwoh has done exceedingly
beyond expectations for the benefit of the Lion Bar
Well done to a noble man of repute