The Sultan of Sokoto, Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Saturday, 1st of March, 2025, as the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

He declared that the crescent moon was sighted in almost every part of the country today, Friday,  February 28, which is equivalent to the 29th day of the Month of Shaban and thereby signifies Saturday, 1st of March, as the First day of Ramadan 1446

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-02-28

The Ogun State Police Command on Tuesday said it had launched a manhunt for the accomplices of the suspended Olorile of Orile-Ifo, Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, who is facing trial for assaulting a 73-year-old chief, Areola Abraham.

The police also disclosed that Ogunjobi was arraigned before a magistrate court sitting in the Ifo area of the state on three counts bordering on conspiracy, assault and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.

The Nigeria Police Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed this in a statement on Tuesday.

He said, “The Kabiyesi Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, who assaulted one elderly man in a viral video, in Ifo Ogun State, has been charged to court today February 4, 2025, on three counts of conspiracy, assault and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.

“He was granted bail while the case was adjourned to 06/03/2025.”

The FPRO vowed that justice would be served on the matter.

“The police will continue to uphold the rule of law and the core values of the noble profession,” Adejobi said.

Giving an update on the incident on Tuesday, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Omolo;a Odutola, disclosed that a manhunt had begun for Ogunjobi’s accomplices.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-02-05

The net worth of Ijebu's richest man,Dr Mike Adenuga, has surged by $700 million in 2024, increasing from $6.1 billion at the start of the year to $6.8 billion by December.

Forbes, the U.S.-based business magazine renowned for tracking global billionaire fortunes, reported that Adenuga’s fortune, pegged at $6.1 billion as of January 1, 2024, grew to $6.8 billion by December 31, 2024.

According to Billionaires.Africa news magazine, despite widespread currency depreciation in Africa, including Nigeria, the billionaire businessman maintained his position among the continent’s wealthiest individuals and ranked as the 448th richest person globally.

Adenuga’s business interests span telecommunications, oil production, banking,  real estate, and manufacturing. However, much of his fortune stems from the success of Globacom, Nigeria’s second-largest telecom operator, which boasts over 60 million subscribers.

Globacom, often credited with revolutionising Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, remains a cornerstone of his business empire.

In 2024, Globacom continued to expand its influence by unveiling digital innovation hubs to foster entrepreneurship and technological growth. 

The first hub was launched in  Lagos, with additional hubs planned for Port Harcourt, Ibadan, and Abuja by mid-2025. 

Globacom fintech arm, MoneyMaster Payment Service Bank, also gained momentum by leveraging a network of 100,000 agents to enhance financial inclusion for Nigeria’s underserved population.

Beyond telecommunications, Adenuga’s ventures include Conoil Producing, a major oil exploration company with significant reserves, and Cobblestone Properties, which develops high-end real estate projects.Among many accolades and recognitions,in the year,at the dawn of the new years 2025,Dr Mike Agbolade Adenuga,amongst others, emerged the Titan of the Year 2024,by the editors of ThisDay Newspaper and AriseNews.

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Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-01-04

The Justice Watch Initiative (JWI) has commended the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his bold and transformative reforms aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and professionalism in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). 

In a statement, the President of JWI, Ilechukwu Obiorah, described the IGP’s recent directives, particularly those addressing indiscriminate case transfers, misuse of police authority in civil matters, and frivolous petitions, as landmark decisions that will reshape policing in Nigeria for the better. 

 “The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun has once again demonstrated that he is not only a reform-minded leader but a determined and visionary police chief. His insistence on transparency, professionalism, and accountability as the pillars of policing in Nigeria is a strong statement that the Nigeria Police Force is undergoing genuine transformation. These new directives are far-reaching and timely, and we at Justice Watch Initiative (JWI) fully support his efforts to sanitise the system,” Obiorah stated. 

The JWI President lauded the IGP’s stance against the unwarranted transfer of case files, which he described as a practice that has hampered justice delivery and contributed to corruption within the Force. 

 “For too long, Nigerians have suffered from the endless shuffling of cases from one division to another, leading to undue delays, waste of resources, and outright frustration for victims. This unwholesome practice has also allowed some unscrupulous officers to exploit complainants financially. By putting an end to this anomaly, the IGP has shown his deep understanding of the issues affecting policing and his commitment to solving them,”  he said.

Obiorah also praised the IGP’s order barring officers from meddling in civil disputes, particularly matters of land ownership, which are often manipulated to serve vested interests. 

 “For decades, Nigerians have watched in dismay as the police are wrongfully used to settle civil disputes. This has damaged the credibility of the Force and eroded public trust. By clarifying that the police should not intervene in purely civil matters except where there is a criminal element, the IGP has demonstrated leadership and integrity. His directive that State Commissioners of Police must take full responsibility for all investigations is a game-changer that will ensure greater accountability,” he said.

The JWI President further commended the IGP’s introduction of stricter regulations on petitions, which now require complainants to declare the authenticity of their claims to curb the rising trend of false and malicious petitions. 

 “This is a brilliant step toward ensuring that justice is not weaponized for personal vendettas. Too often, powerful individuals use fraudulent petitions to harass and intimidate innocent citizens, dragging them through unnecessary police investigations. The IGP’s insistence that petitioners must declare the authenticity of their complaints and will be sanctioned if they provide false information is a strong deterrent against such abuse. This move will free up police resources and allow officers to focus on real crimes.” 

Obiorah saluted IGP Egbetokun’s overall commitment to police reform, describing him as a leader determined to polish the image of the Force and make officers work harder in line with international best practices. 

 “IGP Egbetokun is not just making speeches, he is implementing real, actionable reforms that will fundamentally change the way policing is done in Nigeria. His zero tolerance for corruption, his push for transparency, and his resolve to hold officers accountable for their actions show that he is a leader with a clear vision and an unshakable commitment to excellence. 

 "Under his leadership, officers and men of the Force are now being driven to work harder, more ethically, and with greater professionalism. He is restoring pride in the uniform and ensuring that the Nigeria Police is seen as a force for good, not fear. This is the kind of leadership we need to build a more credible, effective, and citizen-friendly police system in Nigeria,”  he said.

The Justice Watch Initiative (JWI) pledged to continue supporting the IGP’s reforms while urging all police personnel to embrace the changes and work diligently to improve security and justice in the country. 

Obiorah concluded by calling on civil society organizations, legal practitioners, the media and the general public to support the IGP’s transformation agenda, stressing that a reformed police force is critical to Nigeria’s progress and development. 

 “We must all play our part in ensuring that these reforms are not only announced but also fully implemented. The Nigeria Police Force belongs to all of us, and we must work together to ensure that it functions as an institution of justice, discipline, and service to the people,” he concluded.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-02-12

Timothy Adegoke Murder! Appeal Court affirms Ramon Adedoyin to die by hanging

The Court of Appeal in Akure, Ondo State has upheld the death sentence of a hotelier, Ramon Adedoyin in connection with the murder of Timothy Adegoke, a former Master’s student at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.

In its ruling on Thursday, the appellate court affirmed the decision of the Osun State High Court which earlier convicted Adedoyin and sentenced him to death.

Adegoke lodged at Adedoyin’s Hilton Hotels and Resorts in Ile-Ife, Osun State upon his arrival from Abuja on November 5, 2021, to enable him to arrive early for his examination at the OAU Distance Learning Centre, Moro, in the state, on November 6 and 7, 2021.

He later went missing and was found dead buried in a shallow grave following an investigation by the police.

“The judgment of the High Court of Osun State stands. Adedoyin’s appeal is dismissed in part. The Court of Appeal held that Adedoyin was properly convicted and sentenced to death,” the appellate court’s judgement read.

It further noted that the “Order of forfeiture of Hilton Hotel quashed and set aside. Order of education scholarship to children of Timothy Adegoke by Adedoyin and others quashed and set aside.”

Adegoke was found dead in November 2021 at Adedoyin’s Hilton Honours Hotel, Ile-Ife, where he (the deceased) had lodged.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-01-23

An Osun State-based clergy, Bishop Shina Olaribigbe of Rapture Empowerment International, Osogbo, was in the early hours of Thursday stabbed to death while settling a fight between a couple.

Although details about the couple involved were not immediately available, security sources hinted to our correspondent that the woman fighting her husband was attending Olaribigbe’s church located around BCGA Area, where she served as an interpreter.

PUNCH Metro also learnt that the couple had a history of incessant fights, which made them live apart, even though they were not officially divorced.

The cause of the latest fight was however not known, but the late Olaribigbe, it was learnt, always mediated in their fights.

A source who attends Olaribigbe’s church, and craved anonymity for security reasons, admitted to our correspondent that, “It was in that anger that the man took a knife and stabbed the clergy in the chest. He died immediately. Olaribigbe had gone to the house to see the woman, who had been sick for some time.

“The man and his wife were immediately arrested and taken to the Dugbe Police Division in Osogbo, where they are currently being detained.

“The remains of Olaribigbe had been deposited at the morgue of UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Osogbo.”

While speaking with our correspondent,  the Osun Police Command Public Relations Officer, Yemisi Opalola, confirmed the incident.

Opalola said, “They are a couple but not living together. They are not separated by law yet. The Pastor (Shina Olaribigbe) used to settle the fight between the couple.

“We were told the pastor was at the wife’s place today when the estranged husband got there. We were also told the husband stabbed the pastor. We were also told the deceased was on the wife’s bed when the incident happened.

“The husband stabbed him several times and he died. It was learnt the husband acted on the suspicion that the pastor was sleeping with the woman.”

Meanwhile, grief-stricken friends and acquaintances of the clergy flocked his Facebook page to mourn him.

One of them, Oyeleye Isaac, wrote on the page of the deceased, “BREAKING AND VERY SAD NEWS, WE LOST ONE OF OUR HEROES, Bishop Dr Olaribigbe Greatness. Why! Why! Why?”

Another Facebook user, Mr Bimbo, in a post, wrote, “You called to wish me Happy Birthday yesterday.”

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-01-03

Binta Nyako, judge of a federal high court in Abuja, has adjourned the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), indefinitely.

Nyako adjourned the suit on Monday following Kanu’s insistence that the judge cannot preside over his case since she had recused herself.

On September 24, Nyako recused herself from Kanu’s case after an oral application by the defendant.

“I hereby recuse myself and remit the case file back to the chief judge,” she had said.

Kanu directly told Nyako that he no longer had confidence in her handling of his trial.

However, John Tsoho, chief judge of the federal high court, returned the file to Nyako on the ground that Kanu’s application must be formally brought before the court through a motion on notice.

Consequently, in a letter dated December 5, 2024, and addressed to the deputy chief registrar, Adegboyega Awomolo, the prosecution counsel, asked the court to fix a date for the commencement of trial.

Opposing the request for a trial date, Aloy Ejimakor, Kanu’s counsel, in a letter dated December 9, 2024 said the ruling of the judge recusing herself remains valid.

Subsequently, Ejimakor asked that the case be transferred to a federal high court in the south-east if no judge in Abuja is willing to preside over it.

ROWDY COURT SESSION

At the resumed session on February 10, Awomolo told the court that the prosecution counsel have filed and served all necessary processes in the suit and that they were ready to proceed with trial.

However, Ejimakor insisted that was not the issue before the court.

Nyako explained that although she does not want to preside over the case, the chief judge has refused her recusal and directed the defendant to file a formal motion asking for a reassignment of the case to another judge.

While the lawyers in the suit argued over whether a formal motion was required, Kanu interjected: “I want to speak”, he hollered. 

Asked by the judge if he wanted to take over from his lawyer, the defendant said: “Yes, I want to take over.”

The separatist said he was only in court because of the respect he had for the court, but that Nyako no longer had the jurisdiction to preside over his case following her recusal in September.

Raging at the prosecution counsel, Kanu said: “A grown-up man like you who should be in the village and who should be making sure that things are done properly is here subverting the law.”

Addressing the judge, he bellowed: “I don’t recognise the authority of this court to preside over my case. Everything you said here is meaningless to me.

“Why is it that when it comes to my case, everything is turned upside-down?”

He said the memo sent by the chief judge returning the case file to Nyako cannot override the enrolled order of the court made on September 24.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-02-11

Joy and elation enveloped the Idotun Community Junior High School, a suburb of Lekki, on Thursday when Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, in partnership with Dangote Fertilisers Limited, awarded scholarships to 473 students from 10 secondary schools and 7 tertiary institutions. In addition, the company donated eight hundred and four (804) tables and chairs to secondary schools in their host communities of Ibeju-Lekki.

Students, parents, teachers, and community leaders expressed their immense joy as the scholarship certificates were presented to the beneficiaries, alongside educational materials, including textbooks and notebooks, as part of the 5th Edition of the Dangote Scholarship Award Programme.

Group Vice President of Oil & Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, remarked that the event symbolised a shared vision—a partnership between Dangote Industries and the host communities, designed to build a foundation for sustained growth, one that is rooted in education, innovation, and opportunity.

He further emphasised that the initiative is not merely a celebration of achievements but a reaffirmation of the group's commitment to nurturing potential, empowering communities, and shaping a brighter future for the leaders of tomorrow.

"Education, as we all know, is the passport to the future. At Dangote, we believe that education is not just a privilege but a right that every child deserves. This belief has fueled our dedication to supporting students and schools in our host communities since the year 2019 when we launched the Scholarship Award Programme as a key pillar of our Community Development Plan, with year-on-year progress," he said.

Praising the students for their academic dedication, which he acknowledged has resulted in remarkable growth over the years, Mr. Edwin highlighted the impressive year-on-year progress—from 56 students in 2019 to 450 beneficiaries in 2024. He stated that the company is deeply inspired by their determination and is confident that the resources provided will empower them to realise their dreams.

He also noted that the decision to donate the 804 tables and chairs to schools was part of the company’s broader commitment to enhancing the learning environment. This gesture, he emphasised, is a testament to the company’s dedication to ensuring that every child has access to a conducive environment for learning, where they can grow, dream, and thrive.

"To the scholars here today, you are at the heart of our initiatives. Your dreams, aspirations, and hard work inspire us to continue making a difference. As you embark on your academic journeys, remember that the support you receive today is a seed sown in fertile ground. Nurture it with dedication, perseverance, and a spirit of excellence, and it will yield remarkable fruits in your future.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our community leaders, dedicated school administrators who work tirelessly to ensure the success of these initiatives. Your partnership and support are invaluable, and we are honored to work alongside you in empowering the next generation," he added.

The Managing Director of Dangote Industries Free Zone Development Company (DIFZDC), Olayinka Akande, urged the beneficiaries to uphold excellence, which he identified as one of the core values of Dangote Industries Limited. Emphasising the importance of dedication and diligence, he encouraged the students to aim high, noting that with such attributes, some of them could rise to become governors, ministers, captains of industry, or even the next 'Edwin' in the future.

The Head of Social Performance at Dangote Petroleum & Petrochemicals, Ogunleye Mojisola, highlighted that the education intervention is one of the four pillars of the Community Development Plan, which was jointly designed with the community. Reflecting on the scheme’s success since its inception in 2019, Ogunleye expressed gratitude to the management for consistently providing the necessary resources to sustain the programme.

"The increase in the number of beneficiaries each year is a clear indication that the initiative is fulfilling its purpose, motivating students to study hard and achieve academic excellence," she remarked.

The Aro of Lekki Kingdom, Chief Adewale Salami, who represented the Oni of Lekki, conveyed his appreciation for the intervention, affirming that the company is helping to shape the future of the community. He also expressed the kingdom’s continued support for Dangote Industries Limited.

The Chairman of the Lekki Coastal Area Development Association, Alhaji Wasiu Ayeola, praised the founder and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, for transforming what was once a hunting ground of rabbits and lizards into a multibillion-dollar investment that benefits not only the local community and Lagos but also Nigeria and the world. He emphasised that education is the most effective way to shape the future of the community.

Several beneficiaries, including Atibere Peter from Lagos State University, Dauda Omolara from Community Senior High School, Magbon Segun, and Ganiu Ayomide from Community Senior High School, Akodo, among others, expressed their heartfelt gratitude. They noted that the scholarship and support would motivate them to study harder and alleviate the financial burden on their parents and guardians.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-01-21

Fellow Nigerians,

As we enter 2025, I wish everyone a happy and prosperous New Year. May you be rich in joy, success, and good health.

As the new year dawns, it brings many hopes, aspirations, and prospects for better days. By the grace of God, 2025 will be a year of great promise in which we will fulfill our collective desires.

Though 2024 posed numerous challenges to our citizens and households, I am confident that the New Year will bring brighter days.

Economic indicators point to a positive and encouraging outlook for our nation. Fuel prices have gradually decreased, and we recorded foreign trade surpluses in three consecutive quarters. Foreign reserves have risen, and the Naira has strengthened against the US dollar, bringing greater stability.

The stock market’s record growth has generated trillions of naira in wealth, and the surge in foreign investment reflects renewed confidence in our economy. Nevertheless, the cost of food and essential drugs remained a significant concern for many Nigerian households in 2024.

In 2025, our government is committed to intensifying efforts to lower these costs by boosting food production and promoting local manufacturing of essential drugs and other medical supplies. We are resolute in our ambition to reduce inflation from its current high of 34.6% to 15%. With diligent work and God’s help, we will achieve this goal and provide relief to all our people.

In this new year, my administration will further consolidate and increase access to credit for individuals and critical sectors of the economy to boost national economic output.

To achieve this, the federal government will establish the National Credit Guarantee Company to expand risk-sharing instruments for financial institutions and enterprises.

The Company—expected to start operations before the end of the second quarter—is a partnership of government institutions, such as the Bank of Industry, Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation, the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Agency, and Ministry of Finance Incorporated, the private sector, and multilateral institutions.

This initiative will strengthen the confidence of the financial system, expand credit access, and support under-served groups such as women and youth. It will drive growth, re-industrialisation, and better living standards for our people.

On a personal note, thank you for placing your confidence in me as your president. Your trust humbles me, and I promise to continue serving you diligently and wholeheartedly.

We will continue to embark on necessary reforms to foster sustainable growth and prosperity for our nation.

I seek your cooperation and collaboration at all times as we pursue our goal of a one trillion-dollar economy. Let us stay focused and united.

We are on the right path to building a great Nigeria that will work for everyone. Let us not get distracted by a tiny segment of our population that still sees things through the prisms of politics, ethnicity, region, and religion.

To all citizens, your sacrifices have not been in vain over the past 19 months. I assure you they will not be in vain even in the months ahead. Together, let us stay the course of nation-building.

The New Year will bring us closer to the bright future we all desire and the Nigeria of our dreams.

God bless you all, and may God bless our beloved country, Nigeria.

Happy New Year and a prosperous 2025 to you all!

Bola Ahmed Tinubu,

President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

January 1, 2025

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-01-01

The suspended traditional ruler of Orile Ifo, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, has been remanded at the Ilaro Correctional Centre in Ogun State after failing to meet his bail conditions.

The spokesperson for the correctional facility, Yinka Odukoya, confirmed this to PUNCH Online on Wednesday, stating that the monarch remained in custody as he had yet to perfect his bail.

Odukoya said, “Yes, he is in our custody, which means he has been unable to meet the bail conditions granted by the court yesterday. However, as soon as he does, he will be released.”

The Ogun State Police Command had on Tuesday arraigned the suspended monarch over a viral video in which he was seen assaulting a 73-year-old man, Abraham Areola.

According to the charge sheet (MH2b8c/2025), the suspended monarch was accused of conspiracy, assault, and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.

The charge read: “That Abdul-Semiu ‘m’ and others at large, on 21st January 2025, at about 1100 hrs at Sojuolu Street, Ifo Magisterial District, did conspire to commit a misdemeanour, to wit: assault and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace, thereby committing an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 517 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State of Nigeria, 2006.

“That you, Abdul-Semiu ‘m’, and others now at large, on the same date, time, and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District, did unlawfully assault one Areola Abraham by slapping him on the face and ear, thereby committing an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 351 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State of Nigeria, 2006.

“That you, Abdul-Semiu ‘m’, and others at large, on the same date, time, and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District, did conduct yourselves in a manner likely to cause a breach of the peace by forcing one Areola Abraham ‘m’ to kneel down and assaulting him in public, thereby committing an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 249 (d) of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State of Nigeria, 2006.”

The accused, who appeared before Magistrate F. A. Iroko, pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.

The court granted him bail with two sureties in the sum of N5m each, who must reside within the court’s jurisdiction.

The case was adjourned to March 6 for a hearing.

A viral video showing Ogunjobi verbally and physically assaulting Areola sparked widespread condemnation.

In the two-minute footage, Areola was forced to kneel on the road while Ogunjobi berated him with curses and accused him of conspiring against him and his family.

The suspended monarch, reportedly a retired sergeant police officer, boasted about his connections within law enforcement and threatened to have Areola jailed.

At one point, one of Ogunjobi’s aides struck the elderly man and ordered him to prostrate before the monarch.

Meanwhile, the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Ogun State has commended the state government for swiftly suspending the monarch.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Comrade Solomon Bankole, on Tuesday, the group condemned the assault and called for full prosecution.

Similarly, the state Police Community Relations Committee commended both the government and the police for taking swift action to ensure justice for the victim.
The PCRC also called on the police to arrest the individual who slapped the victim.

The State PCRC Chairman, Samson Kunle Popoola, assured the public of the committee’s impartial stance on matters affecting the fundamental human rights of Ogun State residents.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-02-05

Veteran socialite and businesswoman, Khadijat Adebisi Edionseri, popularly Cash Madam,is dead.She was 89years oild.

The Ogun State-born business woman, who became popular for over six decades due to her charity lifestyle, died in Abeokuta, her hometown.

According to a statement by the family on Monday  Cash Madam, who passed on yesterday evening, would be laid to rest at her residence in Abeokuta, by 4.00 pm, according to Islamic rites.

The statement reads, “With deep gratitude to Allah for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Princess Kadijat Abike Adebisi Edionseri (née Elegbede), who returned to her Creator on 5th January 2025 at the age of 89, following a brief illness.

“Her life was a shining example of grace, dignity, and unwavering faith. Princess Edionseri touched the lives of many through her wisdom, kindness, and dedication to both her family and her community. She taught us the importance of love, resilience, and faith in Allah, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

“As we grieve this monumental loss, we also celebrate the remarkable life she lived. Her laughter, warmth, and the values she instilled will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us as we navigate life without her physical presence.

“The funeral will take place according to Islamic rites on Monday, 6th January 2025, at 4:00 PM at her residence in Abeokuta GRA.”It would be recalled that the deceased had assisted many who had financial troubles including late Ayinla Omowura, after he had an auto crash that would have resulted in the amputation of his legs.

Meanwhile,Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State,has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Cash Madam. "I,on behalf of myself and the people pf Ogun state,expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of Alhaja Chief Adebisi Edionseri.Alhaja Adebisi's contributions to the business community and her vibrant social presence,will be reference points for generations yet unborn.Her influence extended far and wide,making her a cherished figure,in the hearts of many.As the state mourns the loss of such a formidable personality, the legacy of Chief Adebisi Edionseri will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and social leaders',Governor Abiodun said.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-01-06

The Chief Magistrate Court, sitting in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State capital, has granted bail to the human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, in the alleged defamation suit against him by the police.

Farotimi was arrested on December 3, 2024, in  Lagos by operatives of the Ekiti State police command over allegations of defamation against him.

He was accused in a 14-count charge of defaming a renowned lawyer and founder of Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, in his book titled, ‘Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System,’ where he alleged that Babalola corrupted the Supreme Court to procure a fraudulent judgment in the service of his clients.

In the last two court sessions on December 4 and 10, the court could not grant the defendant bail and remanded him in prison after opposition by the prosecuting counsel, Samson Osobu, who alluded that Farotimi is a flight risk if granted bail.

During the proceeding on Friday, the Chief Magistrate, Abayomi Adeosun, while granting the bail application by the defence counsel, said the offence of defamation preferred against Farotimi is bailable despite taking note of the issues raised by the prosecuting counsel.

He ordered that Farotimi must provide a N30 million bond with two sureties who are responsible citizens of the country, with one of them a house owner in Ado-Ekiti.

The court also barred Farotimi from granting media interviews or making comments on the issue pending the determination of the substantive suit in the court, and that he should submit his international passport.

The head of the defence counsel, Adejare Kembi, informed the court that the defendant’s international passport has been dropped at the Federal High Court earlier as part of his bail conditions on a different suit on alleged cybercrime against him.

The magistrate ruled that the defence team should provide a written document from the registrar of the Federal High Court confirming the receipt of the passport.

He said, “I have taken note of the fear of the prosecution counsel that he is a flight risk, and I have balanced it with the fact that the alleged offence is still a bailable one, and I decided to grant the application on the promise that the defendant will promptly appear for the case.”

“Bail is therefore granted to the defendant on the following conditions: N30 million bond; the defendant shall produce two sureties who should be responsible individuals in Nigerian society, one of whom must be a house owner in the metropolis of Ado-Ekiti.

“He shall submit his international passport and refrain, in the meantime, from media interviews or comments whatsoever, whether in the electronic or print media, during the course of the case.”

Adeosun, before adjourning the trial of the case till February 13, 2025, ruled on the pending application on the appearance of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, for the defendant in the court.

Citing the principle of judicial precedent relating to the judgement of the Ibadan Division of the Appeal Court on the case between the Commissioner of Police and Bamgboye, the court ruled that senior lawyers (SAN) are not permitted to appear at the Magistrate Court.

Speaking with newsmen, Kembi, while commending the ruling on the bail application, said the defence team would work towards perfecting the bail conditions in record time for the defendant to have his freedom from prison custody.

The lead counsel to the nominal complainant (Afe Babalola), Owoseni Ajayi, said the team alongside the prosecuting counsel would run the case, adding that, “the defendant has scandalised not only Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, but the entire judiciary; this is a heavy allegation against him that he must defend.”

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2024-12-21