Elections in Burkina Faso are not a “priority” compared to “security”, the country’s military leader Captain Ibrahim Traore said Friday on state TV, almost a year after coming to power in a coup.
Traore, who had promised a return to democracy with presidential elections by July 2024, also announced planned changes to the constitution to make it representative of the “masses”.
“It’s not a priority, I’ll tell you that clearly, it’s security that’s the priority” in a country plagued by jihadist violence, he told reporters, referring to the elections.
When Traore seized power he gave himself “two to three months” to improve security in Burkina Faso, but one year on, jihadist attacks still blight the West African nation.
Judgement: Tinubu’s Minister, Deputy Governor, Senator Storm Ogun Tribunal
Journalists barred from covering Sokoto Tribunal judgment
At 34, Traore was the world’s youngest leader when he was sworn in as interim president, vowing to win back territory and support a transition leading to elections in July 2024.
Traore said he planned a “partial change” to the country’s constitution, saying on state TV the current text reflects “the opinion of a handful of enlightened people”, to the detriment of the “popular masses”.
Burkina Faso said on Thursday that four officers had been detained a day after the military government announced it had thwarted a coup attempt.
The junta said late on Wednesday that the intelligence and security services had foiled the attempt the previous day.
The military government said it would seek to shed “all possible light on this plot”.
President Bola Tinubu has called for the support of the citizens as Nigeria marks its 63rd Independence anniversary celebration.
Represented by the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, at the Public Lecture and Special Juma’at Prayer with the topic: “Renewed Hope In The Face of Socio-economic Challenges in Nigeria: Islamic Model”, the president said Nigeria in its journey of nationhood has not done badly when compared to other countries of the world.
He said Nigeria can only succeed if the leaders and the led come together to bring prosperity to the country furthered that the government has been working on how to bring relief to Nigerians through the N500 billion released to bring succour to Nigerians through palliatives which have commenced in some states of the federation.
“We should all thank Allah for being able to make us witness this very very important anniversary which is the 63rd year of our nationhood. And that we should further congratulate all of us on this very important anniversary. And that we should realise the fact that our country when compared to other countries that got independence about the same time we have done very well while others have done better than us. Therefore as we celebrate this anniversary we should use this period as a time reflection: what have we done successfully and what are our failures? That is why the theme of the topic of this lecture delivered by Prof Luqman is very germane. We should look forward to where we have succeeded and look at our failures so that we can make amendments in order to bring prosperity to our nation.
“It is a time that we have to make and also contribute as individuals and as collective people of this country in making sure that we all work hand in hand with the government of the day in bringing prosperity to this country.
“The Sultan has said and I want to emphasize as well that the government is doing everything within its powers to make sure it brings succour to the entire people of this country. On this note, the government has gone ahead to provide funds of N500 billion in order to bring about a package of palliatives to bring succour and to reduce suffering being experienced as a result of the removal of the oil subsidy. Already some amount of money has been disbursed to the states and the process of delivering this palliative has started and more and more will come later in with what is contained in the package. Therefore we need to give support to the government and pray for the government. The task of leading the nation does not reside on the shoulders of the leaders alone. It is something that lies on the shoulders of all of us. Therefore not let us not look at it as government alone. It is only if you pray and support us that we will achieve our desire to make this nation greater.
“The Sultan also talked about the issue of strike and NLC. Please, I also call on behalf of the president and the entire government that is not the time for a strike. It is too early. Let’s dialogue. Let’s sit together. Let’s understand ourselves and let us look at the prevailing situation in the country. How we mend this country, the challenges ahead and the current challenges. It is only through dialogue that we will be able to solve our problems collectively. May the almighty make this country a place of prosperity and continue to be a land of economic Eldorado.
…Sultan, Oluwo Too
The Sultan of Sokoto and the President, the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs in Nigeria and the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba AbdulRasheed Akanbi, have called on the organised labour to have a rethink about the proposed strike slated for next week Tuesday, October 3, 2023. The monarchs, while pleading with the labour unions to give the government more time for dialogue, said the strike would inflict more pain and suffering on Nigerians. They however called on the government to find ways of providing the needs of every Nigerian.
According to Sultan, “People are impatient and we have every reason to be impatient because our lives matter. The government must find every way and means to ensure that there is food on the table of the common man and that is why (the leaders) they are elected. As I have said and I have this fervent belief that the president is a listening president and when issues are taking place he will look at such issues. And that is why I’m an advocate of dialogue. I don’t believe we should embark on this strike in the next couple of days because the common man will suffer more than the leaders you are targeting. President Tinubu will not know because he is in The Villa where everything is at his comfort. So is the SGF. So is the Deputy Senate President. I think I’m the only one who would feel that there is a strike because people will come to me. My house must open I can’t ask anybody to go out.
“The common man will suffer the more and that is why we are against anything strike from anybody. Give the government the chance to see what they can do. Give them (the government) a couple of months and see if they are honest enough. If they are not we are the ones who will even come out and say look, this government has failed. You cannot assess a government within the first three months, it is not possible because there is no government in the first place. They are just settling down.
“They are still in the court distractions here and there. So for God’s sake, for Allah’s sake, for peace to reign in our great country, anybody that want to go on strike should have a rethink and allow the government to call these people at state level, at the national level, at every level to discuss some of these issues. But of we see things going wrong, we will even be the one to say go on strike. Strike add woes on the common man. There is no electricity, there is no transport, there is no fuel. If you shut everything down, how will there be development? We are talking of social economy challenges. How do you face these challenges when you don’t have anything?
“We are clamouring for those that want to go on strike to have a rethink. Let the government give them another opening, let them give government too another opening and see how they can sit together. Unfortunately for me, I have been involved in this dialogue since 20007 whether it is ASUU or what I have been part of this and I know what transpired. We will be worse off than we are now than we will be in the next couple of months if this strike holds. And that is a fact. But if you feel you don’t love this country and you want the country down, then you can do what you think is right for you but for us, it is not right and I will keep on saying it,” the Sultan stated.
“I believe the government has good intentions and plans and I believe they will do their best for the country. This government came with a passion for the country and I believe this country will be great.
“I’m appealing to the NLC and other labour unions to shelve their strike and allow the government to work. A lot of things have been damaged. And things that have been damaged must be repaired. We have to be patient for that repair work to be done.”
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has cancelled the Independence Day celebrations in the state.
The event was billed for Sunday, October 1st, 2023 to mark Nigeria’s 63rd year of independence.
But in a statement by Olawale Rasheed, his spokesman, Governor Adeleke Osun people to pray for the continuous peace and prosperity of Nigeria.
“Let us use Independence Day to meditate and pray on the state of our nation. Our people are passing through tough times. It is time to take stock and seek divine intervention and guidance in the affairs of our nation,” Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying.
“I greet Osun people and Nigerians in general as the Independence Day knocks at our doors. Here in Osun, we will celebrate with meditation and prayers.”
The Indigenous People of Biafra, on Friday, said it will shut down every nook and crannies of the South-East geo-political zone on October 1 (Independence Day), vowing the event will not be held in the region.
The group said events in the country as ‘spearheaded’ by its leadership in the past 63 years did not show South-East was part of Nigeria, stressing, “Anyone seen celebrating the Nigeria flag Independence in Biafraland will regret his or her life.
It further called on the governors of the region and other political leaders to shun the exercise, saying no “Nigerian flag will be hoisted in the zone”, in the zone on October 1.
The group’s Director of Media and Publicity, Emma Powerful, said this in a statement on Friday, a copy of which was made available to Saturday PUNCH.
The statement read, “The global family and movement of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), ably led by the Supreme leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu hereby call on Biafrans both home and in diaspora to shun participation in the Nigeria Independence Day Celebration on 1st October 2023.
“Every sensible Biafra citizen must understand that Nigeria detests Biafrans, particularly Ndigbo. Nigeria has rejected all our efforts to be treated as equal citizens. Nigeria has marginalized Biafrans politically and economically.
“Since Nigeria has rejected us, we have also rejected Nigeria and her celebrations. The Nigeria Government and Nigeria citizens have time after time demonstrated that we are not part of them; and therefore, we must do everything possible to liberate ourselves from the bondage of Nigeria.
“As Nigeria’s government plans to celebrate her flag Independence from Britain, we advise eastern region governors and political leaders to shun the October 1st Independence celebration in our region.
“Moreso, we advise Biafrans not to attend any Independence celebration anywhere within Biafra territory or outside of it. Hence, IPOB has banned the Independence Day celebration and flying of Nigeria flags in any part of Biafraland on October 1st, 2023.
“After 63 years of flag independence of Nigeria from Britain, there is nothing to show for it. Ordinary electricity, security, or good roads Nigeria can’t provide for her citizens.
“As little as conducting free and fair election has been impossible in the most fantastically corrupt nation in the world called Nigeria. Every institution in Nigeria has been polluted and corrupted by bribery and stealing.”
It further maintained the leaders of the country were paying lip-service towards protection of lives and property, adding, “Nigeria is a destiny destroyer for all nations inside it and every citizen therein.”
“Other smaller African nations can boast of providing a safe, secure, and productive country for their citizens, but Nigeria keeps going from bad to worse.”
But when contacted, the Ebonyi State Police Command said operatives of the police force will ensure round-the-clock security surveillance in all the nooks and crannies of the state.
The spokesperson further said, “Residents should go about their lawful businesses without fear of threat or intimidation, and report any suspicious person or thing to the nearest police station.”
Meanwhile, a former governor of the old Anambra State and Chairman, Igbo Elders Consultative Forum, Chukwuemeka Ezeife, has said there is likelihood that President Bola Tinubu will release the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, as special gift to the South-East for the celebration of the country’s 63rd Independence anniversary.
Kanu was arrested in June 2021, by operatives of the Department of State Services.
He has also spent three years in their custody but his continued detention has been greeted with several reactions as people clamoured and pleaded with the federal government for his release.
Several groups and leaders in the Southeastern part of the country had urged the Federal Government to release the IPOB leader, saying it was the only way peace could be restored in the region.
Speaking in an interview with Saturday PUNCH, Ezeife said while former President Muhammadu Buhari was still in office, some leaders from the South-East region met with him to solicit Kanu’s release.
He added that Buhari gave them the impression that Kanu would be released after the meeting but he still remained in the custody of the DSS under the instruction of the federal government.
According to him, their expectation was that when President Bola Tinubu officially resumed his presidential duties, one of the things expected to be pronounced by him was the release of the IPOB leader, noting that other concerned leaders met with him (Tinubu) on Kanu’s matter.
He further urged that the Federal Government should pronounce Kanu’s release to surprise the region, especially as the country celebrates its 63rd Independence Day on Sunday, October 1, 2023.
Meanwhile, the Igboezue International Association Nigeria and the Diaspora, also urged the South East governors to make the release of the leader of IPOB, top on their agenda during the South-East Security and Economic Summit starting on Friday in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
He further urged that the Federal Government should pronounce Kanu’s release to surprise the region, especially as the country celebrates its 63rd Independence Day on Sunday, October 1, 2023.
The group, through its National President, Chief Pius Okoye, insisted that the release of Kanu would return the needed peace and meaningful security back to the South-East, urging the governors to ensure that Ohanaeze Ndigbo did not only participate in the summit but their views should be accepted and implemented to the letters for peace to return to South-East.
The Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, on Friday said the process that would lead to the emergence of his successor ahead of the governorship election in 2024 must reflect fairness, equity, and a sense of inclusion.
The governor, who disclosed this while addressing journalists on Friday, said his administration was focused on finishing strong.
He said, “It is not in my place to now determine, appoint, or anoint any successor but all I know is that in the process of seeking my successor, there must be fairness, equity, and a sense of inclusion because our goal is to keep Edo as one.
“For me, that is the only issue I understood that may be a problem and that should not stop us. The important thing for us as an administration is for us to finish strong and try to complete everything we told Edo people we would do for them during our campaign.”
On his relationship with the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, the governor said, “I have nothing personal against the deputy governor and never had. For me, the issues are very straightforward.”
The Nasarawa State Police Command has apprehended suspected kidnappers, cultists and armed robbers terrorising the state.
The Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Ramhan Nansel, presented a comprehensive report of recent achievements in combating crime within the state, during a press briefing held on Friday at the Police Command Headquarters in Lafia.
The Police disclosed that individuals involved in a kidnapping syndicate responsible for multiple abductions in Nasarawa Eggon, Akwanga, and Kokona Local Government Areas (LGAs) were arrested, and firearms were also recovered from them.
In another operation, the Police apprehended a member of a kidnapping syndicate operating in Gudi and Garaku.
The Police said the suspect, who had been on the wanted list, is cooperating with authorities to apprehend other gang members.
Nansel said the Police operatives also conducted a successful operation at a notorious cultist hideout, resulting in the arrest of several individuals.
Items recovered from the suspects included a locally fabricated pistol, live cartridges, black berets with inscriptions of Neo-Black Movement Confraternity, a Black Axe, a sword, a machete, a mask, and other occultic items.
Nansel added that the fight against crime and criminality remains a top priority for law enforcement in Nasarawa State and warned criminals to leave the state or face decisive defeat.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has failed to attend the dialogue to avert the October 3 nationwide indefinite strike with the Federal Government.
THE WHISTLER reports that the NLC and TUC, had on September 26, declared indefinite strike starting from October 3 over the FG’s failure to meet their demands.
The meeting was scheduled to hold at 3:00pm today at the Aso Villa Conference room of the office of the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.
The invitation letter sent to the Unions dated September 29 was signed on behalf of the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, by the Director, Trade Union Services and Industrial Relations, Emmanuel Igbinosun.
The letter titled “Impending labour union strike invitation to a meeting”, read in part: “I bring you greetings from the Honourable Ministers of Labour and Employment.
“I am directed to invite the leadership of the Trade Union Congress Nigeria (TUC) for a meeting with the Chief of Staff to Mr. President on the above subject, scheduled as follows Date: Friday, September 294, 2023; Time: 12 noon. Venue: Aso Villa, Conference Room of the Office of the Chief of Staff to Mr. President.”
However, present at the Aso Villa was Gbajabiamila, Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong but there were no representative from the Labour Unions as of 5.30 pm.
This led to the cancellation of the proposed meeting by the FG
In a response to the Minister, the NLC, TUC in a letter dated September 29 and signed by Emmanuel Ugboaja, NLC’s General Secretary, and Nuhu Toro, TUC’s Secretary General, demanded a new date next week.
The letter titled ‘Re-impending labour union strike: Invitation to meeting”, read: “We extend our warm regards to you and the entire team at your Ministry.
“We wish to express our sincere regrets for our inability to attend the proposed meeting between us and the Federal Government, scheduled for today the 29th Day of September due to already scheduled engagements our officials have outside Abuja.
“Regrettably, the short notice provided for this meeting has posed significant logistical challenges for the majority of our leadership, rendering their participation unfeasible at this time.
“In light of this, and in the interest of ensuring that any discussions held are representative of the NLC’s and TUC’s collective stance, we find it imperative to request the rescheduling of the meeting.
“We trust that this request for a rescheduled meeting will be taken into consideration, and we look forward to your understanding in this matter.”
The Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB) has banned any form of Independence Day anniversary celebration in the South East region.
The group’s spokesman, Emma Powerful in a statement on Friday urged Biafrans both home and abroad to shun any participation in the Independence Day celebration.
The statement reads in Part: “The global family and movement of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) ably led by the Supreme leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu hereby call on Biafrans both home and in diaspora to shun participation in the Nigeria Independence day celebration on 1st October 2023.
“Every sensible Biafra citizen must understand that Nigeria detests Biafrans, particularly Ndigbo. Nigeria has rejected all our efforts to be treated as equal citizens. Nigeria has marginalized Biafrans politically and economically. Since Nigeria has rejected us, we have also rejected Nigeria and her celebrations.
“As government plans to celebrate her flag Independence from Britain, we advise Eastern Region Governors and Political leaders to shun the October 1st Independence celebration in our region.
“Moreso, we advise Biafrans not to attend any Independence celebration anywhere within Biafra territory or outside of it.
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“Hence, IPOB has banned the Independence Day celebration and flying of Nigeria flags.”
The Acting-Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abdulkarim Chukkol, on Friday, said the perception that Nigeria is a “419” hub has been erased.
Chukkol said this at the Passing out Parade of 332 Detective Assistant Course 4 Officers at the Police Mobile Training College, Ende Hills, Akwanga, Nasarawa State, when he said, “Through the efforts of the commission, odious image of Nigeria as a 419 hub with the attendant negative effect of the economy is erased.”
He stressed that the Commission has made a huge difference in the affairs of the country.
Chukkol said, “The commission’s investigation activity has led to the recovery of assets running into billions of Naira.
“Last year, 2022, the Commission secured a total of 3785 convictions, the highest by any law enforcement agency in Nigeria in a single year.
“Between January and now, the Commission recorded 1688 convictions.
“The figure is bound to increase as more cases are brought to conclusion in the courts,” the EFCC boss said.
He therefore charged the newly- graduated cadets of the Commission to shun indiscipline and other acts of corruption.
“I must also sound a note of warning that the Commission will not condone any indiscipline, as violation of the established code of conduct will be met with appropriate sanctions”, he said.
Speaking on the preventive mandate of the Commission, Chukkol assured that the EFCC will continue to pursue it with relentless vigour through engagement with different stakeholders.
“The Commission recently broke new grounds in this endeavour with the commencement of test transmission of its radio station, EFCC Radio 97.3.
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“The initiative promises fresh vista of opportunities for public engagement as the Commission strives to get the people to own the fight against corruption,” he said.
The Bayelsa State government has described as false the claim by the Labour Party (LP) candidate in the November 11 governorship election, Udengs Eradiri, that the state government spent N30 billion on 10.2km of road half completed by his predecessors.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Bayelsa State Governor, Daniel Alabrah, on Friday frowned at Eradiri’s claim explaining that the current government inherited the project which he started afresh because it was abandoned.
The Labour Party candidate had claimed Douye Diri, the governor, who’s seeking reelection on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, had spent N30 billion to complete the 10.2km phase two of the Glory Drive dual carriageway.
The Labour Party governorship candidate was also quoted in a report as querying “how the road project, which former Governor Seriake Dickson almost completed, could cost N30 billion.”
Eradiri recalled that while former Governor Timipre Sylva completed the clearing component of the project, Dickson carried out the sand-filling aspect, and Diri was expected to asphalt the road.
Alabrah said Eradiri’s claim is an “outright falsehood and a terrible lie” that should be completely disregarded.
Diri’s spokesman berated the Labour Party candidate for frequently making what he called mendacious statements and churning out inaccurate statistics in a bid to grandstand and attract attention to himself.
“To place the issue in context, the Governor Diri administration re-commenced the second phase of the 10.2km Glory Drive project in 2021 more than 10 years after it was started by the Timipre Sylva administration.
“The Sylva administration paid the ‘contractor’ the sum of N9bn for a project that was less than 5% done. So, his successor, Senator Seriake Dickson, queried the amount paid, which his predecessor claimed was for 50% of the job done.
“The disagreement resulted in a litigation by the contractor that eventually stalled the project throughout the eight-year duration of the Dickson administration,” the statement explained.
It emphasised that the legal action prevented the Dickson government from touching the project. “So, it is actually ridiculous that Eradiri, who was a Commissioner and member of the state executive council in that administration, could concoct such a blatant lie.
“By the time the Diri administration assumed office in 2020, the 10.2km stretch of the project had become a huge forest. The administration had to start afresh with clearing, excavation of the soil, sand-filling, asphalt-laying and installation of solar-powered lights on the dual carriageway.
“It is therefore pathetic for Eradiri to engage in revisionism just to score cheap political points.
“It is also clear that the LP candidate lacks understanding of what it takes to govern Bayelsa. Often, he displays crass ignorance on issues bordering on the development of the state.
“If Eradiri thinks spewing falsehood would bolster his chances in the Bayelsa governorship race, he needs to be reminded that the Bayelsa electorate does not reckon with him due to his unenviable record from his days as Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) president.
“Given Governor Diri’s prudent management of the state’s resources coupled with his visible developmental impact, no amount of lies, misinformation and calumnious campaign against him can sway people of the state from re-electing their performing governor.
“The LP candidate must also note that no matter how far lies travel, the truth will always catch up and overtake them,” the statement added.
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Dear All,
October 4th -7th 1967 Asaba Massacre — This Years Memorial Reflections
The Committee of the Asaba Massacre Memorial wishes to convey its appreciation for all past labours from our illustrious Sons, Daughters, well wishers and several Nigerians who in different ways have contributed to our memorial efforts to keep this sad incident alive in the mind of our Country.
Given the tumultuous nature of what the Country has just gone through in her governance process we have decided that this years memorial should be meditative and in this regard we respectfully suggest that the following steps should please be taken during the period for this year's memorial: 1) We appeal that all of us should please observe a one "Minute Silence" on Saturday 7th October 12 noon 2) That in the same spirit we implore our esteemed Representatives in both the State House of Assembly — Hon Bridget Anyafulu — and in the House of Representatives Hon (Ogbueshi) Ngozi Okolic to please urge their various Houses to observe a one minute silence on the Ch of October at anytime convenient to the House in memory of our fallen heroes who died for the Cause of "One Nigeria". We consider this the least we should ask for on this occasion from patriotic Nigerians. 3) We urge you all to please book a Mass in their memory on the 8th of Oct ( for Cathoilics ) and for other Christians to please ask their various churches to pray for them specially on the 8th of October during the Sunday Service.
It is said that charity begins from home. In this way we can all participate in doing something to keep the flame of remembrance alive and robust. There is always something each of us can contribute and this invitation calls upon us to step up and do the needful. The Soul of a people is best demonstrated by what they choose to remember and memorialize.
Dalu
Profile: Demola Bakre, Nigerian Judge Appointed as Justice of the Supreme Court of the Eastern Caribbean
AdminHon. Justice Bakre Ademola Tunde Ahmed has had an exemplary career spanning three decades as a legal practitioner and a High Court Judge of three separate Commonwealth jurisdictions. His commitment to the legal profession is marked by the notable ability to adjudicate over a wide range of criminal and civil cases. His journey as a private legal practitioner and in the judiciary has remarkably contributed to the Jurisprudence both Nigeria and the Gambia as exemplified in his arguments before the Supreme Court of Nigeria and his tested judgments through the appellate courts both in Nigeria and the Gambia. He is noted for comprehensive interpretation of intricate technical legal issues.
Born in 1966 to Hon. Justice G. A Ademola Bakre and Alh. Olayide Bakre, Justice Bakre attended UMC ibadan for his elementary school and moved on to Comprehensive High School Ayetoro and African Church Grammar school Abeokuta for his secondary school education. In 1984 he was at Ogun state polytechnic for his A level classes but he could conclude that, he gained admission to Ogun State University in 1985 to study English Arts. He returned to Ogun State university in 1989 for his law program and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1993.
Justice Bakre started his law career with two other friends in a partnership in Surulere Lagos in the name of Onabolu, Soremi and Bakre in 1994. He later joined Chike Chigbue and Co as head of Abuja Office in June 2000, he moved on to join Chief Afe Babalola as head Abuja office in 2001 after the demise of late Chike Chigbue.
In 2003 December, Demola Bakre opened his owned practice under the name of Law office of Demola Bakre. He represented a number of establishments, organizations and high net worth individuals especially the political elites.
In 2013, he was appointed a judge of the High Court in Ogun state where he sat at the Ota Judicial Division for almost 5 years.
In 2018 June, the National Judicial Council nominated his Lordship with two other Nigerian Judges to serve in a commonwealth support program in the Judiciary of The Gambia for a 3yr contract. Upon expiration, Justice Bakre was the only one of the three whose contract was renewed for another 3 year term in 2021 which contract was to expire in 2024.
On the 30th of June 2023, The Supreme Court of Eastern Caribbean appointed Justice Bakre a Judge based on his background and achievements. He is to commence on the 1st of October 2023.
Hon Justice Bakre is married to Bukola Bakre his university days girlfriend and they are blessed with two wonderful boys Boluwatife Bakre and Tiwaloluwa Bakre.
Nigerian Judge, Demola Bakre's Speech At His Swearing-in As A Justice of the Supreme Court of the Eastern Caribbean
AdminYour excellency the Gov. General of Antigua and Barbuda, Your Ladyship the Hon. Chief Justice and all my other lords and ladies, all other protocols duly observed.
Today marks a special day in my life as I stand before God and mankind to take my 4th oath of Office as a Judge. I have worked as a judge in 2 other jurisdiction apart from the Eastern Caribbean. In Dec 2013, I was sworn as a Judge In Nigeria. In June 2018, I was sworn as a judge in The Gambia. Today I took another oath to serve in the Eastern caribean.
I say that this is my 4th oath because I took another oath which is significant in my career.
On the night of my 1st oath of office, my dad, who himself is a retired Judge in Nigeria, came to my house late in the night and called my wife and I. He said the oath you took today before everyone is ceremonial. You certainly have committed before everybody to be just and fair. You have no idea what you have done as you have no idea what challenges lay ahead of you. It is important at this age to make another oath between you and your God that you will never use the position you have been entrusted for any other purpose than the benefit of mankind.
He asked me to take the holy book. Go alone into my room and make an oath with God, that to the best of my God-given ability I shall be fair to all concerned. I took the said oath, and this oath has been my most significant oath of office that has guided me all my career.
Today, I stand before the people of Eastern Caribbean that I shall be fair to all concerned.
I thank God the almighty who has taken me thus far. I also thank the Hon. Chief Justice of Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and the entire faculty of the court for finding me worthy to take this position.
I carry on my shoulder the enormous reputation of the entire black Africa to show in the Caribbean that Africa is reliable. So help me God.
Once again I thank His excellency the Gov. Gen of Antigua for this honor.
Thank you all.
Hon Justice Tunde AHMED BAKRE.
Communique Issued By The Nigerian Bar Association At The Close Of Her 63rd Annual General Conference Held From The 25th August To 1st Of September 2023 At The M.K.O Abiola Stadium, Abuja
AdminThe 63rd Annual General Conference with the theme "Getting it Right; Charting the Course for the Nigeria's Nation Building" held at the M.K.O. Abiola Stadium. in the Federal Capital Territory. Abuja. Nigeria. from the 25th August to in of September 2023.
There were 16,340 (sixteen thousand three hundred and forty) registered conferees. The Conference comprised of 6 plenary sessions, 21 breakout sessions, 26 speakers, 99 panelists and 23 moderators.
The Conference was declared open by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The Keynote Speaker at the opening ceremony was Mr. Tony Elumelu,CFR. Chairman, Board of Governing Council Tony Elumelu Foundation.
The President of the NBA, Yakubu Maikyau, OON. SAN delivered the opening address.
Goodwill messages were received from:
- The President, Court of Appeal
- The Chief Judge, Federal High Court
- The Honourable Attorney- General of the Federation & Minister of Justice
The Working sessions of the Conference focused on three main themes: Economy, Administration of Justice, and Security. After exhaustive discussions on the papers and extensive deliberations on the themes of the conference, the conference rose with the following observations and recommendations. ECONOMY Observations Conference observed that Nigeria's economic potential has been constrained by many structural issues, including inadequate infrastructure, tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade, fundamental obstacles to investment, uncertain government policies and reluctance of previous governments to take the necessary bold steps required to achieve sustained economic growth.
Conference expressed disappointment over Nigeria's paradoxical situation of having natural resources that are not adequately utilized for Nigeria's industrial development, one of which is clearly seen in the energy sector. Despite substantial gas reserves the nation is still unable to explore gas to achieve adequate electricity generation.
Conference recognized Nigeria's potential in terms of mineral wealth and human resources, emphasizing the enormous opportunities available. However, challenges like power shortages, oil theft, kidnapping, insecurity, and divisions among citizens have prompted the need for robust, long-term economic decisions to revive the economy.
Recommendations
Conference resolved that sustained broad based economic growth and poverty reduction are critical to Nigeria's economic growth and stability.
Specifically Conference called on the Federal & State Governments to refocus efforts on infrastructure development, improve power generation, improve agricultural productivity, and expand jobs in rural areas. There should also be greater attention on youth employment through education and entrepreneurship skills training.
Conference issued a cautionary message, highlighting the diminishing relevance of Nigeria's current natural resources in the face of the imperative shill towards renewable energy solutions driven by climate change concerns. It stressed the urgency of embracing the new economic realities of the 21st century that will overshadow the significance of present natural resources.
Beneficial policies for the revitalization of the Nigerian economy must be formulated and implemented for the sake of not just the current generation but for future generations as well. Some of these policies may have consequences that are not immediately comfortable but will be beneficial for the overall economy and in the long term. Citizens are therefore encouraged to be patient in the renewed hope for the development and growth of the economy of this great nation.
ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE
Observations
The need to reform the justice sector has permanently been a subject of national discussion since Nigeria's return to democracy in 1999. Several high-level committees were set up by successive administrations to review specific institutions within the justice sector. In particular, the Judiciary, Police Force and Correctional Services have at several times been subjects of multiple reviews.
Many of the problems identified include poor coordination among the different actors in the sector; long delays in hearing cases; a lack of effective legal aid to help the poor to access justice; overcrowded detention facilities; critical allegations of corruption within key institutions and poor conditions of service across the sector.
While the reports of these committees have largely gone unimplemented there have been many interesting and useful initiatives to improve the justice system. The enactment of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, the Administration of Civil Justice Laws in Delta and Ekiti States. Correctional Services Act, The Police Act, the National Human Rights Commission Act, and the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria Act, are some of the important legislation in support of justice sector reform.
Conference observed that inspite of these developments there are still formidable challenges ahead to achieve a justice system that works in the interest of Nigerians. Public confidence in the justice system remains at very low levels.
Conference notes that every aspect of the infrastructure of our justice system requires fundamental rethinking including our approaches to policing adjudication bail, sentencing and imprisonment. There was also a call to adherence to judicial decisions, adoption, and integration of technological advancements for the judiciary, and fostering improved relationships between the different branches of government.
Recommendations
Achieving the desired justice system will be a process not an event. Nevertheless, change must be accelerated to keep up with the expectations of Nigerians particularly those of the poorest and most vulnerable communities. Such change must be properly planned and carefully managed.
The importance of a strong independent judiciary was emphasized. Conference affirmed the need for an urgent: upward review of judicial remuneration. Conference recommends the separation of Judicial Remuneration from public sector including the removal of the remuneration of judicial officers from the purview of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and — Fiscal Commission [RMAFC]. Conference also recommended an independent salary scale for judicial officers. Conference recommends that urgent attention be paid
to the plight of magistrates and other lower court judges.
Conference recommends that the Federal and State governments extend financial support to pro bono schemes in Nigeria to bolster their effectiveness. That there must be collaborative efforts between the Nigerian Bar Association and other relevant stakeholders to enhance the provision of pro bono services and narrowing the gap in access to justice.
SECURITY
Observations
Conference analyses the critical issue of national security and its intertwined relationship with economic prosperity and effective administration of justice.
Conference acknowledged the severe impact of insecurity on the nation's development and examined the various factors contributing to this challenge.
Key observations included the devastating effects of terrorism. non-participation of communities in security efforts, unemployment's link to unrest, and the need for regional cooperation and intelligence sharing.
The Conference recognized the detrimental role of porous borders. globalization’s influence on crime dissemination, inadequate security personnel training, contentious land allocation, indiscriminate release of suspects government's inaction against insecurity, and the presence of ungoverned spaces.
Recommendations
Conference identified the need for greater investment in the Military including providing support for civil-military coordination framework as well as a comprehensive endowment framework for critical military facilities and equipment.
Conference recommended practical strategies to address security concerns. These include community involvement in policing. youth engagement through Job creation, enhanced regional cooperation, media sensitization, comprehensive police reforms, religious school regulation, strengthening the judiciary, and observance of human rights. The adoption of State security forces. proper land management, international resource acquisition, and meticulous implementation of approved plans were also suggested.
Conference urged citizens to actively contribute to combating insecurity by being vigilant and speaking up. It called upon the legal community to explore ways of enhancing Nigeria's access to finance to support the fight against insecurity. Overall. the Conference underscored the need for comprehensive. multi-faceted efforts to address the nation's challenges.
Conference recommended legislative intervention to address gaps in the Armed Forces Act and other legal frameworks. enhancing regulations and accountability for military personnel involved in low intensity conflicts.
Conference recommended that military raining and operations incorporate human rights studies so that the military observes human rights principles and gain international credibility and uphold its constitutional role in safeguarding citizens.
The Role of the Legal Practitioner (Members of the NBA)
Observations
‘The attention of conference was drawn to the immortal words of Sir Christopher Alexander Sapara Williams. who said that “The legal practitioner lives for the direction of his people and the advancement of the cause of his country”.Conference also noted the words of Theodore Roosevelt, who said “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care”.
The above was what informed the medical outreach held in the sidelines of the Conference. The medical outreach which will continue until 7 September 2023, was organized in partnership with the Kebbi State Government, the Medicaid Cancer Foundation. Garki Hospital Abuja. with volunteers from the Moses Lake Medical Team (MI.MT) from the United States of America and the South American Country of Chile: Doctors from the University College Hospital (UCH).Ibadan: volunteers from Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kebbi
and other chapters from all over Nigeria: and doctors and nurses from the NYSC.
The outreach has, so far. attended to the health needs of over 1,700 (One Thousand Seven Hundred) Nigerians. lawyers. and non-lawyers. About 44 surgeries have been successfully performed so far.
Conference reviewed the Legal Practitioners’ Remuneration (For Business. Legal Service and Representation) Order. 2023 and Rules of Professional Conduct and NBA Rules and Guidelines on Anti- Money Laundering and Counter- Terrorism Financing
Conference emphasized the need for advocacy, awareness campaigns. and value delivery for fees as well as educating the public on the provisions of the new Legal Practitioners Remuneration (for Business. Legal Service. and Representation) Order 2023 which provides a framework for ethical charging and transparency.
Conference recommended that Legal Practitioners familiarize themselves with the Money Laundering Rules (ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM)
In addition to reports from National Officers, Conference received reports of several statutory bodies. These are National Human Rights Commission Council of Legal Education, Legal Aid Council. Law Reform Commission.
The following resolutions were reached: Suspension of Proposed Constitutional Amendment
By a majority voice vote of members present at the AGM, it was resolved that the proposed amendment of the NBA constitution 2015 (as Amended in 2021) be and is hereby rejected in its totality while the subsisting constitution be retained.
Poor Funding of Statutory Bodies
AGM decried the poor funding of statutory bodies such as the National Human Rights Commission, Legal Aid Council and the Council of Legal Education and called for continuous engagements between the NBA and the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to facilitate proper funding of statutory bodies for effectiveness and performance.
ANNUAL GENERAL CONFERENCE, 2024
AGM resolved that the 2024 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association would hold from 23" to 30"'August 2024. The venue is to be determined in due course.
CONCLUSION
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the legal profession as a whole must remain unwavering in the pursuit of justice and effective governance. As the voice of the people, the legal community holds the responsibility of ensuring equitable treatment for all, irrespective of their status. Upholding the principle of equality before the law is paramount.
The NBA’s influence should extend beyond the courtroom. It must actively contribute to economic growth and stability by advocating for policy adherence to the rule of law in policy making and implementation. To bolster the economy, the legal community should focus on nurturing the judiciary and key regulatory bodies.
The Conference emphasizes that the outcomes and recommendations from this gathering should be earnestly embraced and executed. The profession's commitment to justice must remain unswerving. By doing so, the Nigerian legal sector will stand out globally. acknowledged for its exceptional administration of justice and adherence to legal principles.
These recommendations reflect the collective commitment to strengthening legal institutions and promoting justice, human rights, and professional integrity with the ultimate goal of Getting It Right.
- Dated this 2nd Day of September, 2023
