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Category: Security

Crisis of Integrity: Nigeria’s Body of Benchers and the Erosion of Ethics in the Legal Profession

Kamal Yalwa06 mins

The Call to Bar ceremony is one of Nigeria’s most revered legal traditions — a solemn ritual through which new lawyers are formally admitted into the legal profession. The event, overseen by the Body of Benchers (BoB), is meant to symbolize integrity, discipline, and the highest standards of legal distinction. However, recent developments surrounding the 2025 Call to Bar ceremony have raised serious questions about the credibility and moral authority of the institution charged with maintaining those values. The BoB, described by law as a body of “legal practitioners of the highest distinction,” is responsible not only for admitting new entrants into the Bar but also for overseeing professional discipline through its Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC). Yet, the criteria for determining who qualifies as a member of “the highest distinction” remain opaque, and in practice, some of its members have been tainted by ethical controversies. Opaque Standards and Questionable Membership The Body of Benchers comprises three main categories of members: Honorary Members – often appointed for political or diplomatic reasons, usually symbolic rather than substantive. Ordinary Members – drawn from top public offices such as judges, Attorneys-General, leaders of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and principal officers of the National Assembly who are lawyers. Life Benchers – members recognized for consistent participation in BoB meetings and events over a four-year period. While these categories seem designed to preserve merit, critics say political patronage and internal favoritism often determine membership more than professional excellence or ethical standing. The Ozekhome Controversy During the most recent Call to Bar ceremony held in Abuja from September 23 to 25, 2025, a controversy quietly unfolded behind closed doors. Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, who had only been conferred as a Life Bencher in January 2025, was asked to withdraw from participating in the ceremony following objections from some BoB members. Their objection stemmed from a UK property tribunal judgment delivered on September 11, 2025, where the judge dismissed Ozekhome’s testimony as “an invention and contrivance.” The case, related to a failed real estate registration application, raised ethical concerns among some members of the legal community. According to Professor Gideon Christian of the University of Calgary, the case illustrated how “politicians hide wealth abroad under false identities, while lawyers—sworn to uphold the law—serve as enablers of fraud.” Despite Ozekhome’s withdrawal, the BoB reportedly went to great lengths to ensure the incident remained a closely guarded secret, underscoring what observers describe as a pattern of selective accountability within the body. A Culture of No Consequence The Body of Benchers’ handling of the Ozekhome issue is emblematic of a larger problem — the failure to enforce ethical standards among senior lawyers. The LPDC, which operates under the BoB, has a long history of inaction in cases involving influential figures. Notably: In 2021, the Supreme Court condemned former Attorney-General Michael Aondoakaa (SAN) for “undermining and subverting the administration of justice.” The court ruled that he should never again hold public office. Yet, no disciplinary action followed from the Bar. Earlier cases include Kunle Kalejaiye (SAN), accused of corrupting a judge, and Joseph Nwobike (SAN), found guilty of manipulating court assignments. Both men escaped meaningful professional sanctions after years of legal maneuvering and technical rulings. A System in Moral Decline The latest episode involving Chief Ozekhome reinforces the perception that Nigeria’s legal elite operates under a culture of impunity. The very institution tasked with upholding ethical standards has instead become a sanctuary for some of the same individuals accused of undermining them. While the BoB publicly extols integrity during the Call to Bar ceremonies, its internal practices suggest a widening disconnect between rhetoric and reality. For many observers, the 2025 incident serves as a troubling reminder that without accountability at the top, the moral foundation of Nigeria’s legal profession continues to erode.

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Tension in Kogi West as Bandits Lay Siege on Yoruba-Speaking Communities

Kamal Yalwa03 mins

By Trend Brio News| October 12, 2025 KOGI STATE, Nigeria – Fear and uncertainty have gripped the Kogi West Senatorial District, the Yoruba-speaking region of Kogi State, as escalating bandit attacks continue to terrorize residents across the area’s seven local government areas. Once known for its peaceful, agrarian communities, the region has become a hotspot of insecurity, with villagers abandoning their homes and farmlands in droves. Those who remain live in constant fear, unable to farm or move freely as armed gangs launch frequent assaults on settlements. According to local sources, numerous lives have been lost, including those of policemen and vigilante members, in recent attacks. The bandits, believed to have migrated from parts of the North-West and North-Central regions, are said to be operating from dense forest hideouts where they plan kidnappings and raids on travelers and farmers. “The forests that once gave us food and peace are now where death lives,” lamented a resident of Kabba, who described how entire communities have been forced to relocate. Poor Roads Fuel Insecurity The deteriorating infrastructure in Kogi West has worsened the crisis. Key roads, such as the Ilorin–Omuaran–Kabba Highway, have reportedly collapsed after years of neglect by both state and federal authorities, leaving several communities inaccessible and vulnerable to criminal activities. Only a handful of towns—mainly local government headquarters—have paved roads, making it nearly impossible for security forces to respond quickly to distress calls or patrol remote areas. A Region in Distress For many locals, the insecurity is only the latest chapter in a long history of government neglect. Despite the region’s contributions to agriculture and commerce, residents say they have been marginalized in infrastructure and development projects. “Our people can no longer go to the farm or market without fear,” said a community leader. “We have been forgotten by those in power.” As the situation worsens, calls are growing for urgent government intervention, including improved road access, better policing, and coordinated security operations to reclaim the forests and restore peace to the embattled region.

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Court of Appeal Berths in Abeokuta as Abiodun Assures Judicial Officers of Support

Fola Badmus06 mins

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has revealed that the Federal Government has approved the establishment of the Court of Appeal in Abeokuta, the state capital. Governor Abiodun made the revelation at a special church thanksgiving to mark the 2025/2026 legal year, held at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta. He said the establishment of the Appellate Court would bring justice closer, ensure quick dispensation, and help take the load off the Ibadan Division. He said: “We have finally received the formal approval for the establishment of the Ogun State division of the Federal Court of Appeal in Abeokuta. “This is indeed a landmark achievement of an initiative proudly and aggressively championed by our administration to bring justice closer to our people and to ease the heavy caseload currently on the Ibadan division. “As a government, we recognize that justice is the foundation of every prosperous society, and we appreciate the fact that the Ogun State judiciary has not only maintained its independence but has also taken commendable strides towards improving access to justice, reducing case backlogs, and embracing reforms.” The governor pointed out that justice could not thrive without integrity, impartiality, and courage, admonishing the judicial officers to renew their dedication to a system where the scales of justice remain balanced, the most vulnerable voices heard, and where it provides an opportunity for every man, woman, and child to be protected by the law. While acknowledging that a strong, independent, and upright judiciary provides a pathway to good governance, economic development, and social stability, Governor Abiodun said that as a responsive and responsible administration, it appreciates the place of the judiciary in entrenching the ideals and practices of democracy. “Our administration will continue to provide the necessary support and resources to enhance judicial efficiency and uphold the integrity of the legal system in our dear state. “We will continue to prioritize the welfare and accommodations of judicial officers by making adequate housing arrangements and providing other essential support for our judges and other judicial staff who may be posted to serve in the Ogun State division of the Court of Appeal,” he said. He lauded the State Chief Judge for repositioning the judiciary through impactful reforms and the judicial officers for maintaining the state’s position as the beacon of the legal profession in the country. In a sermon, the Bishop of Ijebuland South/West Diocese, the Rt. Rev’d Babatunde Ogunbanwo, described the judiciary as the most powerful arm of government that gives or takes life, dethrones or enthrones kings, as well as sacks elected officers or brings those who lost elections to power. He urged judges to always act justly by being fair to all manners of people, irrespective of their social or economic status, noting that society would only thrive when justice reigns. The clergyman reminded judicial officers about the place of mercy while dispensing justice, saying it is imperative to be firm with the law but to have a heart of compassion, as justice without mercy could be cruel. While calling on the judiciary to be bold and ready to confront the negativities of the system, Bishop Ogunbanwo urged them to make fairness their watchword and allow their conscience to speak louder, knowing that they will give an account of their stewardship to God, the ultimate Judge. The Chief Judge of the State, Hon. Justice Mosumola Dipeolu, read the only Bible passage taken from Colossians 3:8-17.

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Court Grants EFCC Interim Forfeiture of Property Linked to ₦986m Diesel Fraud

Fola Badmus03 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: August 1, 2025 Justice Dehinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the interim forfeiture of a property located at No. 29 Oyindamola Shogbesan Street, Park View Estate, Ago Palace Way, Lagos, over its alleged link to a ₦986 million diesel supply fraud. The order followed a motion ex-parte filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) through its counsel, Chineye Okezie. According to the EFCC, the property was allegedly acquired using proceeds from a fraudulent Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) transaction involving Hannah Ify Nwaguzor, Ajayi Edward Olushola, and others. The commission said it received a petition from Chukwulota Benneth Onuoha and two companies—G3 Solid Farms & Agro Allied Industries and Bohr Energy Ltd—claiming they were defrauded in a diesel supply deal. The petitioners alleged that they were introduced to the suspects in May 2024 by one Irene Abidemi, after which Bohr Energy Ltd transferred ₦986 million to Mozann Global Merchants Ltd. However, no diesel was delivered, and the funds were allegedly diverted. Investigations revealed that ₦500 million was traced to Hola Jayu Nigeria Ltd, from which ₦261 million was allegedly paid to Orobosa Michael Ubogu for the purchase of the said property. The EFCC stated that the funds used to acquire the property are suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity, in contravention of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006. In its submission, the EFCC argued that interim forfeiture is a preventive measure to preserve suspected proceeds of crime, citing the Supreme Court decision in Dame Patience Jonathan v. FRN, which established that a conviction is not required under Section 17 of the Act to grant such an order. An affidavit by EFCC investigator Waziri Abdullahi supported the motion, asserting that the property was not acquired from legitimate income. Justice Dipeolu granted the interim forfeiture and directed the EFCC to publish the order in a national newspaper, inviting any interested party to show cause within 14 days why the property should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government. The matter was adjourned to September 2, 2025, for hearing on the motion for final forfeiture.

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Nigerian Army Eliminate 24 Boko Haram Insurgents, Recover Weapons

Fola Badmus05 mins

In continuation of the series of coordinated offensive operations across the North East Theatre of operations, troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), bolstered by close air support from the Air Component and collaboration with Civilian Joint Task Force and hunters, have carried out successful kinetic operations against Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in theatre between 4 – 9 July 2025, eliminating several terrorists. In one of the ambushes conducted at Platari on 4 July 2025, the gallant troops, while lying in wait, made contact with JAS/ISWAP terrorists mounted on bicycles moving from the Sambisa Forest axis to the Timbuktu Triangle. The terrorists were immediately subdued with heavy fire, leading to the neutralization of 3 terrorists. Similarly, following intelligence on movements of the insurgents around Komala general area, troops sprang another ambush on the terrorists, neutralizing another fighter. On exploitation of the general area, troops recovered motorcycles and spare parts, knapsack sprayers, pesticides, and terrorists’ food items. Relatedly, troops conducted a night ambush on the same day at terrorists’ hideouts around the Kawuri general area in Konduga Local Government. During the deliberate operations, the resilient troops came into contact with the insurgents. Consequently, 2 terrorists conveying logistics were immediately eliminated, while others fled with gunshot wounds. Troops also recovered packets of salt, food seasoning, detergents, and other sundry items. In the same vein, troops on 5 July 2025, intercepted terrorists attempting to access the Madarari Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp in Konduga Local Government Area. The troops swiftly engaged the insurgents, killing one terrorists, while others escaped with traces of gunshot wounds. Troops subsequently recovered several rounds of ammunition during the exploitation of the area. In another development, troops conducted a fighting patrol to terrorists’ enclaves at Leno Kura. Resultantly, the troops came into contact with the insurgents and engaged them with simultaneous gunfire from different directions. Accordingly, 3 terrorists met their Waterloo, while troops continued exploitation of the area. Furthermore, on 6 July 2025, troops carried out a night ambush at a suspected terrorists’ crossing point along the roads Ngoshe – Gava, Ngoshe – Ashigashiya, as well as Amuda – Gava areas.Troops made contact, and an insurgent was neutralized while others fled. On 7 July 2025 also, troops sprang another ambush following an intelligence report close to Sabsawa village. During the operation, troops made contact with terrorists’ logistics suppliers and successfully neutralized 2 insurgents. On exploitation of the area, the gallant troops recovered bicycles, sacks of slippers, several torchlights, batteries, detergents, salt, and rubber shoes, amongst other sundry items. On 8 July 2025, troops in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force, under close air support provided by the Air Component of OPHK, conducted clearance operations at Bula Marwa, a known ISWAP/JAS enclave. In the course of the operation, the troops eliminated an insurgent and recovered a gun, terrorists’ uniforms, while their life-supporting structures were totally destroyed. Additionally, troops in a joint operation with hunters and the Civilian Joint Task Force, conducted fighting patrol at terrorists’ hideouts at Pambula village in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State. During the patrol, contact was made with JAS/ISWAP terrorists, who were immediately engaged with a high volume of fire, forcing the terrorists to disperse in disarray. The troops neutralized a terrorist, recovering four motorcycles and his weapon. The determined troops continued exploiting the general area to rid it of any terrorists activities.

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Court Sentences Man to Death for Murder of NYSC Member in Nasarawa

Court Sentences Man to Death for Murder of NYSC Member in Nasarawa

Fola Badmus02 mins

The High Court sitting in Lafia, Nasarawa State, has sentenced Oluwatimileyin Ajayi to death by hanging for the murder of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Salome Eleojo Adaidu. Delivering judgment on the case, Justice Simon Aboki found the 32-year-old defendant guilty of culpable homicide, contrary to Section 221 of the Penal Code of Northern Nigeria. Ajayi, a gospel singer, was convicted of killing and dismembering the 24-year-old corps member, whom he identified as his girlfriend. Ajayi was arrested on Sunday, January 12, 2025, in possession of the victim’s severed head while allegedly attempting to dispose of it. The incident occurred in the Papalana area of New Karshi, Karu Local Government Area, where the victim had reportedly visited him. During police interrogation, the convict confessed to the crime, claiming it was triggered by suspicions of infidelity. He admitted to killing the victim but denied that the act was premeditated. The court, however, held that the evidence presented proved beyond reasonable doubt that Ajayi committed the offence. He has been sentenced to death by hanging.

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Benue Killings: Seadogs Call on FG to End Cycle of Bloodshed

Fola Badmus06 mins

The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) is outraged and deeply pained by the continued orgy of violence and bloodletting that has once again erupted in Benue State, where armed marauders, widely reported to be Fulani herders, have laid siege to communities, leaving in their wake death, destruction, and displacements. In a statement issued on Tuesday by the NAS Capn, Dr Joseph Oteri, the association said it was in solidarity with the traumatised and bereaved families of Yelewata and other communities who are victims of this senseless carnage. The statement read, “It is unconscionable that in the year 2025, entire communities in Nigeria still live under the shadow of fear, unable to sleep, farm, or assemble freely, because their lives are constantly under threat from well-armed killers who operate with brazen impunity. “Reports of the recent massacre in Yelewata, with over 100 lives reportedly lost, should shake the conscience of every Nigerian and spur the government into decisive, responsible action. Tragically, that has not been the case. “We strongly condemn not only the heinous acts of violence committed against innocent villagers but also the lukewarm response of the authorities whose duty it is to protect lives and property.” While we acknowledge President Bola Tinubu’s recent directive to security chiefs and the deployment of Special Forces to Benue State, the National Association of Seadogs emphasised that these actions must not become yet another reactive gesture that fizzles out once the media spotlight fades. “This must mark the beginning of a sustained, coordinated, and transparent security strategy to end this national shame,” it added. According to NAS, equally disturbing is the divisive rhetoric coming from some quarters of government, particularly the attempt by Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to blame victims for their misfortune by insinuating internal collaboration with attackers. “This unfortunate narrative only deepens mistrust, polarises communities, and diverts attention from the real threat, armed bandits masquerading as herders, terrorising citizens, and threatening national unity,” it said. As a way forward, the association urged the Federal Government to establish a hybrid task force comprising the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Police, and trained community protection volunteers. “This force must be rooted in local intelligence, equipped with technology, and mandated to dislodge armed militias and secure borders around Benue and adjoining states,” it said. In the same vein, NAS tasked the Federal Government to prosecute perpetrators and sponsors of this extreme violence. “The cycle of impunity must be broken. The security forces must go beyond chasing shadows; they must identify, apprehend, and prosecute the masterminds, financiers, and armed field operatives behind these attacks. Justice must not only be done but seen to be done,” NAS said. The organisation also urged the federal government to convene a national summit to resolve the protracted conflict between farmers and pastoralists once and for all. “This must include the urgent adoption of ranching policies, prohibition of open grazing in vulnerable areas, and provision of support systems for livestock management. “Thousands have been displaced and are now at the mercy of hunger, trauma, and hopelessness. A special humanitarian intervention should be mobilised by NEMA and donor agencies to provide food, shelter, and psychosocial support for displaced persons in Benue. “As a people united by a common identity and as an organisation driven by the ethos of justice and human dignity, the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) demands a definitive end to the bloodletting. We require leadership, not platitudes. We demand accountability, not blame games. We demand action, not condolence letters. “To the grieving people of Benue, we send our heartfelt condolences and unyielding solidarity. Your pain is our pain. Your struggle is our cause,” it added.

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CHTI Urges Community-Led Solutions to Crime, Reintegration at Ottawa Hope Conference

Fola Badmus35 mins

Local leaders, advocates, and changemakers convened at the Ottawa Public Library – Beaverbrook Branch on Saturday, May 17, for Hope Conference 1.0, an inaugural event hosted by the Canadian Hope Transformation Initiative (CHTI). Under the theme “Collaborative Pathways to Community Safety,” the conference ignited a bold, citywide call for community-driven solutions to crime prevention, systemic inequality, and reintegration of marginalized individuals. In his keynote address, Emmanuel Tobi, Founder and COO of CHTI, challenged both the community and policymakers: > “We can’t continue treating crime prevention like it belongs to the police alone. This is a community issue—our issue. Real change starts when we build bridges, not walls.” His speech, “Redefining Safety: Community-Led Solutions,” underscored the need for a more holistic approach to justice, one that prioritizes community involvement in both prevention and reintegration efforts. That message of shared responsibility was amplified by Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, who, in a goodwill letter, praised the conference as “a forum to examine crime prevention through education, collaboration, and community empowerment.” Cathy Curry, Councilor and Deputy Mayor Ward 4 Kanata North, in a video message, echoed the importance of collective leadership, commending CHTI for “creating space where young people, service providers, and leaders can work together to build the kind of city we all deserve.” A Conversation Rooted in ChangeThe panel discussion brought together a diverse lineup of voices with professional, technical, and lived experience—each contributing insight into the deeper causes of crime and possible paths toward safer communities. Geoff Haskell, a Toronto-based criminal defense lawyer and former member of the Canadian Armed Forces, drew on both his legal and military backgrounds to examine systemic injustice. He spoke candidly about how imbalances in the justice system often punish people for a lifetime over a single mistake: “Justice isn’t just about what’s legal—it’s about what’s fair.” Bridging the conversation between justice and opportunity, Temi Sam, a DevOps Solutions Architect at NetApp and CEO of CodeHero, highlighted the potential of technology to disrupt cycles of crime, especially among youth: > “The same tools used to build the world’s tech empires can be used to redirect our youth from cycles of crime. We must invest in their minds and give them reasons to dream.” Adding a raw, deeply personal perspective to the dialogue was Chris Draper, a CHTI board member and speaker with lived experience. Draper shared his story of incarceration and transformation, urging more compassionate reintegration approaches: > “Everyone deserves a second chance, not a lifetime sentence outside of prison.” Rounding out the panel was Ifeoma Okonji, a social impact strategist whose advocacy centers on equity and community development. She emphasized the need for increased grassroots involvement in shaping reintegration policies: > “True empowerment happens when communities are not just consulted but co-create the systems meant to serve them.” Together, the panelists painted a compelling picture of what is possible when institutions, community members, and policymakers collaborate across silos. CHTI now hopes to build on the momentum of Hope Conference 1.0 by fostering more cross-sector dialogue and policy innovation around crime prevention, restorative justice, and community reintegration.

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