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Court voids Ondo’s probe of Chief Judge

Published

5 years ago

June 17, 2021

A Federal High Court in Abuja has set aside all steps taken by the Ondo State Governor, the state’s Attorney General and the House of Assembly in relation to the probe of allegations of official misconduct raised against the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Oluwatoyin Akeredolu in a viral video made by one of her relatives, Olupelumi Fagboyegun.

Fagboyegun had, in the video that was made public on social media, accused Justice Akeredolu of among others, abusing her office and influencing his prolonged detention.

In a judgment on Thursday, Justice Inyang Ekwo upheld Justice Akeredolu case, to the effect that the governor, the AG and the House of Assembly lacked the constitutional powers to engage in the probe of the allegations of official misconduct made against the state’s Chief Judge by Fagboyegun in his video.

The judgment was in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/2016/2021 filed by Justice Akeredolu against the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), the National Judicial Council (NJC), the Governor of Ondo State, Ondo AG, the state House of Assembly and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), alleging that the Ondo governor, AG and House of Assembly were plotting to remove her from office.

Justice Ekwo held that there is no law that empowers the Ondo AG or the state governor to conduct any investigation in relation to allegations of official misconduct against the State’s Chief Judge and recommend such investigation to the House of Assembly.

He further held that it is only the NJC that is empowered under the Constitution to probe allegations of official misconduct against any judge.

Justice Ekwo, who earlier dismissed the notices preliminary objection raised by the AGF and NJC, frowned at the publication of the purported probe of the plaintiff on the social media.

“It is apparent from Exhibits JSO and JSO 3 that the fourth defendant (Ondo AG), without any constitutional backing, was embarking on a charade meant to attract negative public attention to the office of the plaintiff by purporting to be conducting investigation on the allegations against the plaintiff.

“The process of dealing with allegations of misconduct of judicial officers generally, is well stated in the JDR (Judiciary Disciplinary Regulation) of the second defendant (the NJC) and ought to be adhered to.

“The purported investigation into any allegation of misconduct by a judicial officer, like the plaintiff, is a solemn constitutional matter that must be kept out of social frenzy. The supremacy of the Constitution and the sanctity of the office must be preserved.

“I believe the fourth defendant, being the Chief Law Officer of Ondo State, is aware that where the law provides a procedure for doing a thing, any other method employed to do such a thing is excluded.

“Any officer of the law who breaches the provision of the very Constitution that creates his office is not worthy of the office. He is a terror to all conscientious beings.

“Upon perusing the processes in this case and the exhibits tendered, I am unable to see where the fourth defendant (Ondo AG), or the third and fifth defendants (Ondo governor and the House of Assembly) complied with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) or JDR 2017 with respect to the act of investigating the office of the plaintiff.

“They ought to be stopped forthwith. In conclusion, I find that the case of the plaintiff has not been effectively challenged by the first and second defendants, and, has not been challenged at all by the third, fourth, fifth and sixth defendants.

“The judge proceeded to grant all the reliefs sought by the plaintiff including an order of perpetual injunction, restraining all the defendants from further taking any steps in relation to the case.

“An order is hereby made setting aside, nullifying and putting away any decision of the third, fourth and fifth defendants (Ondo governor, Ondo AG and House of. Assembly) and or any other steps taken thereon and in particular, the purported investigation report of the 3 and 4″ Defendants released on social media on 18″ February 2021 by the third and fourth defendants in so far as it relates to the office of the plaintiff as the Chief Judge of Ondo State, the same being inconsistent with sections 36(1), 153 of the 1999 Constitution and Item 2i(d) of the Third Schedule (Part 1), thereto read together with sections 271 and 292 of the same constitution,” Justice Ekwo said.

Justice Akeredolu had stated in a supporting affidavit that after the video by Fagboyegun was allegedly published online by Dele Momodu and Femi Fani-Kayode, the then AG of Ondo State, Charles Titiloye said he investigated the claim by Fagboyegun that the CJ instigated his detention for three years and found the claim to be false.

The plaintiff added that despite the AG’s finding that Fagboyegun’s claims were false, “the same Hon. Attorney General of Ondo State, in further demonstration of the script he acted, said in the report that: This matter is further referred to Ondo State House of Assembly for investigation.”

Justice Akeredolu stated that the Ondo State governor, the AG and House of Assembly “have vowed to remove her from her office as Chief Judge of Ondo State on the trumped up allegations being sponsored on social media as aforesaid.

“That the third to fifth defendants (Ondo State governor, the AG and House of Assembly) have elicited the political support of the first and sixth defendants (the AGF and IGP) to illegally remove her from office when she has not been investigated by the second defendant (NJC), which has the constitutional duty to do so.”

She added that all the defendants, except the NJC “are planning to and will use unlawful means to remove her from office as Chief Judge of Ondo State and interfere with the performance of her judicial functions unless this court intervenes.”

News

Tinubu Declares End to “Broken Revenue System”, Unveils New Economic Reforms

Published

1 hour ago

April 14, 2026

Trends Admin

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Tinubu Declares End to “Broken Revenue System”, Unveils New Economic Reforms

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria has entered a new phase of economic transformation, insisting that the country will no longer operate a “broken, inefficient and unfair revenue system” as his administration intensifies fiscal and tax reforms.

Tinubu made the remarks in Abuja during the commissioning of the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) headquarters, where he reaffirmed that ongoing reforms are aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s tax system, improving revenue generation, and restoring public confidence in governance.

He described the reforms as a “covenant with Nigerians,” stressing that they are not political rhetoric but a deliberate effort to rebuild the country’s economic foundations and ensure long-term stability.

According to him, Nigeria is gradually transitioning “from uncertainty to renewed hope” through structural reforms designed to improve efficiency, fairness, and transparency in revenue administration.

The President emphasized that no country can achieve sustainable development with a weak fiscal structure, adding that his administration deliberately embarked on overhauling the system to eliminate leakages, improve compliance, and ensure that national revenue is effectively deployed for development.

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“No nation achieves lasting prosperity on a weak and fragmented revenue system,” Tinubu said, adding that government must earn public trust through a fair and transparent tax structure.

He noted that the reforms are focused on simplifying tax processes, reducing distortions, and creating a more investment-friendly environment that encourages both local and foreign investors.

Tinubu also highlighted early signs of progress, pointing to improvements in fiscal stability, stronger reserves, and increased investor confidence as indicators that the reforms are beginning to yield results.

He attributed these gains to what he called “deliberate policy choices and national discipline,” insisting that the government remains committed to long-term structural changes rather than short-term economic fixes.

The President described the newly commissioned NRS headquarters as a symbol of institutional renewal and administrative efficiency, noting that it represents more than just a physical structure.

“This building is more than concrete and steel. It is a symbol of professionalism, transparency, efficiency and service delivery,” he said.

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Tinubu also tasked the Nigerian Revenue Service with evolving beyond revenue collection into a trust-building institution that reflects accountability and fairness in its operations. He stressed that taxpayers must see clear value for their contributions through improved public services and national development.

“The Nigerian Revenue Service must not only collect revenue, it must build trust,” he said, adding that institutions must demonstrate integrity and responsiveness to citizens.

He further acknowledged the challenges associated with economic reforms, noting that while such policies may cause short-term hardship, they are necessary for long-term prosperity and national stability.

Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of ongoing reforms, saying sustainable development requires shared sacrifice and collective commitment.

The President also reiterated that Nigeria’s future depends on deliberate policy choices and strong institutions capable of driving inclusive growth and global competitiveness.

“We have chosen reform, we have chosen discipline, we have chosen progress,” he said. “We will stay the course until the promise of Nigeria is matched by the performance of its institutions.”

The commissioning of the NRS headquarters marks a key milestone in the federal government’s broader economic reforms in Nigeria, particularly in tax administration and public finance management, as authorities push to diversify revenue sources beyond oil dependence.

Tinubu Declares End to “Broken Revenue System”, Unveils New Economic Reforms

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JAMB 2026: Police Dismiss Threat Rumours, Deploy Nationwide Security for UTME Centres

Published

1 hour ago

April 14, 2026

Trends Admin

JAMB 2026: Police Dismiss Threat Rumours, Deploy Nationwide Security for UTME Centres

The Nigeria Police Force has ramped up security preparations ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), dismissing circulating reports of threats to candidates as false while deploying personnel and rapid response teams across the country.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Force spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the police were aware of “recent unfounded rumours” concerning the safety of examination centres, particularly in parts of the North-Central region. He stressed that the claims lack credibility and should be disregarded by the public.

According to the police, there is no verified intelligence pointing to planned attacks on UTME centres. However, the Force noted that concerns raised by Nigerians—especially regarding the safety of candidates—have been taken seriously, prompting proactive measures to ensure a secure environment nationwide.

To guarantee security at UTME centres, the police confirmed the deployment of both overt and covert personnel, including rapid response teams, patrol units, and surveillance operatives positioned strategically across examination venues. These efforts are aimed at preventing disruptions and ensuring a smooth conduct of the examination.

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The UTME, organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is scheduled to commence on April 16, 2026. As one of the most critical examinations in Nigeria, the JAMB 2026 UTME will see hundreds of thousands of candidates sit for entry into tertiary institutions nationwide.

The police further disclosed ongoing collaboration with other security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and response coordination. Authorities warned that any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process would be identified and dealt with decisively.

Candidates and parents were reassured of adequate security during JAMB exams, with advice for candidates to arrive early at their centres, comply with all examination regulations, and promptly report any suspicious activity to security personnel.

The Force also cautioned against spreading misinformation, emphasizing that fake security alerts could create panic and undermine public confidence. Nigerians were urged to rely solely on verified updates from the police and JAMB.

Reaffirming its commitment, the Nigeria Police stated that safeguarding lives, property, and national activities remains a top priority, assuring the public of a peaceful and orderly examination process across the country.

JAMB 2026: Police Dismiss Threat Rumours, Deploy Nationwide Security for UTME Centres

News

Akpabio: Insecurity in Nigeria Will End Two Weeks After Elections

Published

1 hour ago

April 14, 2026

Trends Admin

Senate President Godswill Akpabio

Akpabio: Insecurity in Nigeria Will End Two Weeks After Elections

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has attributed Nigeria’s rising insecurity to political activities ahead of upcoming elections, expressing confidence that the situation will subside shortly after the polls. Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja at the commissioning of the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) Corporate Headquarters, Akpabio said the surge in violence is being driven by individuals allegedly sponsoring unrest due to desperation linked to the electoral process.

According to him, Nigeria insecurity, election violence, and political unrest are interconnected, stressing that the trend will reverse once elections are concluded. He stated that within two weeks after the elections, insecurity across the country would significantly reduce, insisting that those behind the acts are politically motivated. His comments come amid growing concerns over banditry in Nigeria, terrorism, and kidnappings, which continue to affect several regions.

Akpabio also strongly defended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the government is making progress despite criticism. He argued that opponents of the administration, unable to counter its performance, are resorting to sponsoring instability. The Senate President urged Nigerians to remain patient, noting that ongoing reforms under the current government would yield positive results.

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Taking a swipe at the opposition, Akpabio suggested that it is fragmented and lacks direction. In an apparent reference to Peter Obi, he criticised what he described as political inconsistency, claiming that opposition figures are abandoning their platforms while blaming the ruling party for the country’s challenges.

The Senate President also used the occasion to commend the Executive Chairman of the NRS, Zacch Adedeji, describing him as a tax administrator widely accepted by Nigerians. He noted that unlike traditional perceptions of tax officials, Adedeji has earned public trust and is driving reforms in the country’s revenue system.

The high-profile event was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. Several governors were also present, including Babagana Zulum, Charles Soludo, Caleb Mutfwang, Hope Uzodimma, and Usman Ododo.

The newly commissioned Nigerian Revenue Service headquarters is described as a world-class facility designed to enhance tax administration in Nigeria and boost revenue generation. The complex features three towers spanning 16 floors, with capacity to accommodate about 3,000 personnel. The development follows the signing of the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act in June 2025 by President Tinubu, transforming the former FIRS into the NRS as part of broader economic reforms in Nigeria.

Akpabio’s remarks have sparked debate among analysts and stakeholders, with many questioning the claim that insecurity is largely politically sponsored. While the Senate President maintains that the end of elections will bring relief, experts argue that addressing Nigeria security challenges requires deeper structural reforms beyond the political cycle.