NEWS
Why court freed Nigerian judge accused of corruption
A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory on Wednesday discharged a judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja of all 18-count charges of fraud brought against him, his wife and a senior lawyer.
The judge, Adeniyi Ademola, and his wife, Olabowale, as well as Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Joe Agi, were accused of fraudulent diversion of huge sums, ranging from local and foreign currencies, possession of firearms and involvement in illegal collection of gratification.
The defendants, particularly the first and second defendant, Mr. Ademola and his wife, a former Head of Service in Lagos State, were alleged to have abused their offices by conspiring to and consequently collecting gratification, in negation of their constitutional duties as public officers.
They had prayed the court to determine that they had no queries to answer, after the prosecution closed its case at the last adjourned date.
Delivering the judgement on the application for ‘no case submission’, Justice Jude Okeke who presided over the matter said the prosecution failed to prove its allegation before the court with facts, hence the court would not rely on speculations.
The judge said his observation of the matter proves that the case was built on “high level suspicion and speculation” fuelled by the very important fight against corruption.
Mr. Okeke said the allegation of collecting gratification, as made by the prosecution should have indicated clearly that the alleged gratification was corruptly collected and that the reasons for such corrupt transfers were related to the alleged offence.
Regarding the alleged transfer of N10 million for example, between the first and third defendants, Mr. Okeke said the prosecution failed to show clearly the official function of Mr. Ademola, in respect of which the N10 million was illegally offered as gratification.
He added that the prosecution was duty bound to state clearly the ingredients of offences alleged against the defendant. He said the failure of the prosecution to do so, renders unnecessary the requirement of a defence by the accused.
Mr. Okeke further said the prosecution, having alleged that the sum of N30 million was given as gratification to Mr. Ademola ‘spoke from both sides of the mouth’ when in another breath the prosecution, through its witnesses, said they do not know why the said sum was offered to the defendant.
Regarding the allegation of gratification through the collection of a car which was said to have been transferred through Mr. Ademola’s son, Mr. Okeke said the witness who had spoken in court about the purchase of the said car ‘did not in the remotest way’ indicate that Mr. Ademola’s son, an adult, was acting on behalf of his father.
On the allegation of embezzling huge sums of foreign and local currencies, Mr. Okeke said the witness brought to court by the prosecution to speak regarding the matter had agreed that judges were entitled to estacodes which were usually given in foreign currencies; particularly in U.S. dollars.
He said the witness also told the court that the said currencies could be further transferred into other foreign currencies, based on the particular location, where a judge intends to travel.
“The prosecution witness derailed, rather than supported the allegation”, said Mr. Okeke.
Concerning the alleged discovery of N85 and N90 million, respectively transferred by Mr. Ademola to a company, Danpaca and sons, for the purchase of a property, the judge said the witness brought to court by the same prosecution had testified to the fact that a sum of $520, 000 was found in one of Mr. Ademola’s account.
He added that according to the testimony of the witness, the foreign currency was part of proceeds from the sale of properties belonging to the parents of the judge which were shared among himself and his siblings.
Mr. Okeke said the first defendant had stated that his legitimate income did not only include his official earnings as a judge, but his inheritance, from a grandfather who was once a Chief Justice of Nigeria and a father who had risen to the height of a Justice of the Appeal Court.
“There is nothing that prevents the first defendant from benefiting from the inheritance of his father,” said Mr. Okeke who added that; “The fact that judges are expected to live humbly does not mean that every judge is church mouse”, that cannot afford to live comfortably.
On the allegation of attempting to collect N25 million as gratification from a defendant, Sani Teidi, while presiding over his case, Mr. Okeke said the witness who had testified in court, “made the allegation hopeless” by failing to show any direct evidence that Kingsley, O. through whom the ‘bribe’ was intended to have been collected, was actually acting on behalf of the first defendant.
“It is the duty of the prosecution to prove that the first defendant ‘and no one else’ attempted to collect the alleged N25 million, not an agent.
“The calls must be shown to have been made by the first defendant,” the judge added, stressing that no link was also created between Mr. Kingsley O. and the first defendant.
Also speaking about the allegation of illegal possession of firearms, Mr. Okeke said section (3) of the Robbery and Firearms Special Provision Act “limits the offence to possession of firearms contrary to the provisions of the act”.
Mr. Okeke said the decision of the prosecution to add the phrase; “Without valid licence in the charge; makes it inconsistent with the provision of the said act”.
Mr. Okeke called on security agencies and the law enforcement officers to ensure proper investigation of matters before proceeding to court, stressing that the court of law cannot rely on mere speculations to condemn any defendant.
Mr. Ademola was one of the judges whose homes were raided last October by the State Security Service, SSS. His case is the first to be ruled upon after he asked for expeditious trial.
NEWS
Nigerian Born Int’l Journalist, Livinus Chibuike Victor, attempts to attain Interviewing Marathon of 72hours 30 Seconds
Journalists plays an essential role in promoting transparency, challenging power, and giving a voice to the voiceless. Despite increasing threats to press freedom across the world.
As the world reflects on the vital role journalists play in upholding democratic values, Livinus Chibuike Victor, Imo State born globally acclaimed journalist, proudly announce a historic Guinness World Record attempt for the longest interviewing marathon, with the Theme (NIGERIA OUR STRENGTH) scheduled to take place from 28th September to October 1st 2025, at Tangier Hotel, 34, Ekukinam street, Besides ABC Transport, Utako, Abuja.
The record attempt according to Victory, aims to highlight the enduring impact of journalism in a democratic society, a profession that continues to educate, empower, and hold those in power accountable. In an age where truth is often under siege, this initiative seeks to draw attention to the essential need for a free, ethical, and fearless press.
“Democracy is impossible without an informed public, and journalists are the ones who make that possible, “This attempt is not just about setting a new world record; it’s about celebrating truth, integrity, and the powerful role journalism plays in building and sustaining open societies.
The Guinness World Record attempt will feature a series of activities designed to engage the public, celebrate press freedom, and honor the sacrifices made by journalists around the world.
Members of the public, media professionals, and civic leaders are invited to witness and support the event as it unfolds over three inspiring days at the Tangier Hotel, Ekukinam Street, Utako,.Abuja, Nigeria.
About Livinus Chibuike Victor
Livinus Chibuike Victor is a Nigerian journalist known for his fearless reporting and advocacy for Press Freedom. He has worked tirelessly to promote transparency and accountability in society through his work.
The immediate past National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chief Dr. Chris Isiguzo (MFR), has been celebrated with a Lifetime Achievement Award by journalists from the South East Zone C during a special homecoming held in his honour at the NUJ Enugu Council Press Centre.
Speaking at the event, NUJ Vice President (South East), Comrade Ezenwa Adiuku, said the recognition was in appreciation of Isiguzo’s remarkable leadership and contributions during his tenure as National President. He described him as “a pathfinder, a trailblazer, a mentor, and a leader,” noting that he positioned the South East as a strong voice within the Union.
Chairman of the occasion and SSA to the Enugu State Governor on External Media Relations, Mr. Uche Anichukwu, stressed the importance of quality leadership recruitment in a democracy, urging citizens to reject vote buying and selling. He charged the media to intensify civic education to ensure credible leadership choices.
The current NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, praised the South East leadership for honouring Isiguzo, adding that it was the first time a sitting national president would honour his predecessor. He expressed confidence in the new Enugu Council leadership under Comrade Obinna Ogbuka, urging members to give full support.
In his response, Isiguzo expressed gratitude to the Union, recounting his administration’s achievements such as member registration, creation of the NUJ website, restoration of peace in councils, improved relations with state governments, and enhanced staff welfare.
Delivering a keynote address on “Leadership Recruitment Amid Challenges of Poverty: The Role of the Media”, UNN Vice Chancellor, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, represented by Prof. Olaiwola Usman, linked Nigeria’s poverty crisis to poor leadership choices, stressing the media’s role in promoting credible recruitment of leaders.
The high point of the ceremony was the presentation of the NUJ South East Zonal Lifetime Achievement Award portrait to Isiguzo by Comrade Yahya, alongside tributes from NUJ and NAWOJ leaders.
The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has expressed deep sorrow over the lives lost in the recent fire at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos.
The Fund said its thoughts are with the families, colleagues, and organisations affected, including the Federal Inland Revenue Service, United Capital Plc, UBA, Afriland Properties, and others.
NSITF’s Managing Director and Chief Executive, Barr. Oluwaseun Faleye, sent heartfelt condolences, saying: “Our hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones. We stand with you in this time of grief.”
He also commended the courage of emergency workers and the swift action of the Lagos State authorities in containing the situation.
To support those affected, NSITF has activated its Lagos support desk to work with employers, families, and government agencies. The desk is helping with incident reports, claims processing, and benefits under the Employees’ Compensation Scheme.
This covers dependants of the deceased as well as rehabilitation support for survivors. “Our case officers are ready to guide families and employers every step of the way,” Faleye assured.
The Fund noted that the tragedy highlights the importance of workplace safety and the need for organisations to take precautions to prevent such disasters.
NSITF urged all employers to: Strengthen workplace safety measures and emergency protocols, especially in high-rise buildings and around backup power systems.
Report incidents quickly to NSITF so support can be provided without delay.
Ensure their organisations are registered with NSITF and that Employees’ Compensation contributions are up to date to guarantee full protection for their workers.
“These measures can save lives, reduce risks, and ensure timely support for those in need,” Faleye stressed.
On behalf of NSITF’s Board, Management, and Staff, he extended the Fund’s deepest sympathies to all those affected, pledging continued collaboration with the Federal Government and Lagos State authorities to protect Nigerian workers.
May the souls of the departed rest in peace.
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