squib log

MEETING GOVERNOR FASHOLA - WITH LETTER OF PROTEST

2012-01-21T05:25:00.000-08:00

On 20th January 2012, NBA Ikeja branch members were received by Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola S.A.N and the Lagos State Attorney-General & Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye.

The branch chairman, Adebamigbe Omole on behalf of the branch first commiserated with Governor Fashola on the recent loss of his uncle and then stated its concerns: embarrassing developments in Lagos State - specifically the presence of soldiers on its streets which was a breach of the fundamental rights of the people and which was uncalled for, there being no state of emergency to warrant their (soldiers) presence and so something had to be done.

Branch Chairman Omole, a senior branch member - Mr. Femi Falana and the branch’s General Secretary, Adesina Ogunlana then presented the Letter of Protest to Governor Fashola. Thanking the Bar for coming, the Governor stated that he had written to the President on the matter. He said politicians must learn to tolerate criticism of their policies and that the story about the soldiers being members of Operation MESA (a team created and funded by the Lagos State Government) was untrue. “Operation MESA does not occupy streets and they go about their duties in their branded vehicles, “ he stated. Governor Fashola added that Lagos state was doing something about the situation and people should remain calm and peaceful that the people of Lagos had fought and won many battles and this would be no different.

TRUNCATED STRIKE

2012-01-17T00:05:00.000-08:00

NBA IKEJA PRESS RELEASE AT:
http://www.nbaikejapressrelease.blogspot.com

Monday, 16th January, 2012 at about 11.30 a.m, NBA Ikeja branch members got to the Gani Fawehinmi Park at Ojota. There we discovered that a ring of police, navy and army officers had cordoned off the Park. We demanded access into the Park as it was our constitutional right to be able to assemble there and we were directed down the lines to their leaders until we got to one Lt. Col. A.A. Alabi. We read him Section 40 & 41 of the Constitution. We told him that their Commander-in-Chief had sworn an oath to obey the Constitution. He was polite but unyielding – they had been instructed not to allow people into the Park. We then went to the Labour House at Yaba. We were still there when we heard the announcement that the leadership of the NLC/TUC had called off the strike!

OUR POSITION: The NBA Ikeja intends to sue the Federal Government for preventing us from exercising our fundamental rights as well as seek the possibility of extending opposition to the N97 fuel price which is unacceptable.

8th Chief Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture +Fuel Hike Strike Update

2012-01-15T21:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday’s, ‘8TH CHIEF GANI FAWEHINMI ANNUAL LECTURE’ was very well attended with a packed hall. The people (from Lagos and Oshun states) who followed the Guest of Honour, Governor Rauf Aregbesola alone numbered over a hundred. All the invited Guests including Justice Pius Aderemi (Chairman) and Professor Omotoye Olorode (Guest Speaker) came in good time.

The programme started with an inter-law faculty quiz among 4 universities. This year’s Lecture was one of the best ever in terms of scholarly depth and analysis of the topic which was made from the socialist perspective of the Nigerian situation. The Guest Speaker (Prof. Olorode) concluded that revolution was inevitable in Nigeria ; rebellion against the status quo arrangement of the economy and politics. According to him, “Nigeria is being run by leaders brainwashed by western world perspective which is the perspective that can only lead to further exploitation of the Nigerian state.” The Lecture was received with a standing ovation. Governor of Osun State, Engr. Rauf Aregbesola on his own part warned against the hijack of the struggle by military forces which would only pull the nation back. At the programme’s end, a hundred people smiled home with 3 free books (including law reports) each.

THE STRIKE CONTINUES. HOWEVER WHETHER SIT-AT-HOME AND/OR RALLIES? NBA IKEJA MEETING AT THE BAR CENTRE BY 7 A.M TODAY 16TH JANUARY, 2012.

FUEL PRICE HIKE PROTEST DIARY (DAY 5 OF STRIKE)

2012-01-14T07:36:00.000-08:00

Morning of 13th January 2012, we went to Labour House – the Secretariat of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) at Yaba. From there, a Fuel Price Hike Protest Procession to Mushin on foot, was organized. Our numbers swelled to about 3000 as we proceeded. We stopped at various points along the way to address the people and the message was very well received. At Mushin, Labour leader and former ASUU President, Dr. Dipo Fashina once again addressed the crowd. Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja branch chairman, Adebamigbe Omole also spoke.
Thereafter, we joined a motorcade to Oshodi. There was nobody to address as the usually ever busy Oshodi was deserted (everyone was probably in Ojota). We disbanded to allow the muslims in the motorcade go for Jumat service.
We got to Ojota around 2p.m by which time the Save Nigeria Group had announced the suspension of the Protest until Monday but we still met about 3 million protesters who refused to go home - it had a carnival like atmosphere. Stayed about 40 minutes and returned to our Ikeja High Court base. SUBJECT TO OUTCOME OF TALKS GOING ON WITH THE GOVT., FUEL PRICE HIKE PROTEST RESUMES ON MONDAY 16TH JANUARY, 2012.

FUEL PRICE HIKE PROTEST DIARY (DAY 4 OF STRIKE)

2012-01-12T23:23:00.000-08:00

Thursday morning (12th January 2012), saw an increase in the number of lawyers that turned up at the Ikeja High Court for the Fuel Price Hike Protest.
We joined the NLC/TUC train on a condolence visit to the family of the murdered Ademola Aderinto at Ogba.
Two boys masquerading as part of the train of protesters were arrested by the crowd while robbing passersby. The train moved to Agbotikuyo junction at Agege and held a rally there. The rally was addressed by Dr. Dipo Fashina, a.k.a “Jingo.” His message was clear: Resistance to the fuel price hike must continue. “Enough is enough!,” reiterated Dr. Fashina.
We then made our way to the the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Ikeja to

stage a protest; saw many intending passengers who appeared stranded.
All through the city, there was total compliance with the strike order of the NLC/TUC. There were masses of protesters gathered in many areas of Lagos - from Lagos Island to LASU. However we heard reports of some small criminal gangs in a few neighbourhoods setting up roadblocks for extortion or even outright robbery of passersby.
The NLC/TUC train decided to move on to Ikorodu but we went to the Gani Fawehinmi ‘Freedom Park’ at Ojota. The crowd of protesters there was even more than the previous day; at least 3.5 million! The police there were so overwhelmed by the sheer number of people that they just sat in their vans while some people made fun of their barking dogs. Never before has such event recorded a crowd of such gargantuan proportions! Crowd control at this Ojota rallying point has been almost entirely in the hands of the Save Nigeria Group and by self policing, while the NLC/TUC Group has been

quite strategic, carrying out sensitization campaigns to various parts of the metropolis.
We eventually made our way back to our ‘war camp,’ the NBA Ikeja Secretariat for victuals. Around 4p.m, Mr. Femi Falana showed up and commended the bold stand of the NBA Ikeja. PROTEST CONTINUES TODAY, 13TH JANUARY, 2012. EXPECTING YOU THIS MORNING TO JOIN US.

FUEL HIKE PROTEST DIARY – 11TH JANUARY, 2012 (DAY 3 OF STRIKE)

2012-01-12T09:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday 11th January, we (NBA Ikeja branch members) proceeded to Ogba where there was an initial hesitation of mourners to hold a rally for Ademola Aderinto, the slain youth, as it was rumored that they would be cracked down upon by the police; however we encouraged the rally to hold. There, Adebamigbe Omole, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja branch chairman assured them that we would ensure that Ademola’s case was not swept under the carpet and that his killer would be prosecuted. We went on to Gani Fawehinmi Square, Ojota to join protesters there. By about 2 p.m, our chairman, Omole addressed the crowd – no less than 2million in number, encouraging them to continue with the protest: 65 naira per litre or nothing; the government was elected by the people and if the majority of the people say they do not want a particular policy, the government must listen. From Ojota we went to the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) Panti. There we met with the head, Deputy Commissioner of Police Yuguda Abdullahi who said that the trigger happy Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Segun Fabunmi, who shot Ademola was in his custody and assured us that that he would indeed be prosecuted. WE CONTINUE WITH THE PROTEST TODAY, 12TH JANUARY 2012.

FUEL HIKE PROTEST DIARY – 1OTH JANUARY, 2012 (DAY 2 OF STRIKE)

2012-01-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

More people joined us (Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja members) yesterday, 10^th January, 2012 as we marched in protest in Lagos on the 2nd day of the fuel hike strike and we were at least 700,000 in number as we marched from Yaba to Tafawa Balewa Square. Tense moment though on Lagos Island, as we encountered a group of about a hundred ‘area boys’ – they are usually engaged in turf wars and they could have hijacked the situation; some motorists actually began to reverse in panic, however they allowed us pass without incident upon sighting our banner. THE PROTEST CONTINUES TODAY 11th Jan., 2012.

22ND - 27TH NOVEMBER 2010

2011-06-28T01:46:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MONDAY 22ND NOVEMBER 2010The Squib’s out. Cover story, “THE JUDGE THAT LOST HER JUDGEMENT.”

What a day! Spent three hours on the road, from Isolo to the Lagos High Court, Tafawa Balewa Square. All bids to escape the terrible , terrible traffic only got me more enmeshed in it. It was like jumping from frying pan to fire and then leaping from the fire to an inferno!

TUESDAY 23RD NOVEMBER 2010
Followed up on the case of the Law School student, the Ikeja Bar was sponsoring. Got her school fees paid. Bravo Tigers!

WEDNESDAY 24TH NOVEMBER 2010
Was in chambers throughout. Rather a rare thing these days. Mostly one is in 'Tiger’s lair' or geckoing about.

THURSDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2010
Was at the Lagos High Court Igbosere for a matter. The matter went on. Went to Justice Kazeem Alogba’s Court. Wanted to check up on the fate of a concluded pre-trial matter before the judge. Alas, court under lock and key. Later learnt that judge had gone on a spiritual journey to Mecca for the hajj.

The National Executive Committee of the NBA held today in Gombe; Gombe State is the first of the J.B. Daoudu S.A.N presidency.

FRIDAY 26TH NOVEMBER 2010
Just spent a little time in the High Court Ikeja and the Tiger’s Lair today.

SATURDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 2010
Only two tigers came for the weekend sports programme of the Ikeja Bar. Nonetheless we enjoyed ourselves.

IST WEEK NOVEMBER 2010 (1ST - 5TH)

2011-05-11T03:04:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 1ST NOVEMBER 2010
The Squib’s out- cover story, “REVIEW OF THE 2004 LAGOS STATE HIGH COURT CIVIL PROCEDURE RULES” THE STAND OF THE TIGER BAR (PART 1)

First time in ten years, the Squib will start life as a bi-monthly. Has always been a weekly.

In the afternoon, the monthly meeting of the Tiger Bar held. The meeting was converted to the ‘second half’ of the Branch’s Stakeholders Summit on the Lagos State High Court Civil Procedure Rules 2004.

Quite useful deliberations. Saw the likes of Wemimo Ogunde, Femi Falana and Layi Babatunde SAN taking active part.

Bravo, Tigers!

TUESDAY 2ND NOVEMBER 2010
In company of Tiger Bar, 1st vice-chairman, Yinka Farounbi Esq attended, the Lagos State organized KURAMO CONFERENCE at the Eko Hotel and Suites Victoria Island. It was a conference for proferring solution to the socio-economic developmental challenges of African nations.

But it was a mixed multitude I saw in there, at the plenary session-lawyers, students, ‘activists’ intellectuals, traditional rulers, clerics and dozens of corralled civil servants.

Noticed also Professor Wole Soyinka the Nobel Laureate. Last time I saw him in flesh was in 1984 at the University of Ife, at the eve of his departure as a lecturer from “Great Ife”. Saw and heard, the American, Jesse Jackson. Was not too impressed though.

There was this other fellow from the U.K, formerly a Ghanaian chap, but had become a Lord or something in England.

Too much Turenchi!
WEDNESDAY 3RD NOVEMBER 2010
Had a matter at the welfare court. Matter went on. After, repaired to the Tiger Bar lair.

THURSDAY 4TH NOVEMBER 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court for a criminal matter. Murder case. Judge did not turn up. Registrar under strict instructions not to give dates. Client came all forty something kilometers away. Said madam Registrar – “The judge said parties should come back tomorrow”.

Wahala!

FRIDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a civil matter. The court in question sits only by 12.00pm on Fridays. But this Friday, Judge nowhere to be seen.

Wonderful, you say?

4TH WEEK OCTOBER (25TH - 28TH OCTOBER 2010)

2011-05-11T02:56:00.000-07:00

MONDAY 25TH OCTOBER 2010
The Squib’s out. Cover Story, “A LETTER TO THE SEPTEMBER 7.” Came to the Lagos High Court. For a case. Civil matter. Couldn’t go on. Neither defendant nor her counsel present. Presiding judge did not arrive in court on the dot of 9.00am. couldn’t recollect any apology from him for coming late. Big man show.
TUESDAY 26TH OCTOBER 2010
Hid away. In chambers. For many hours.
WEDNESDAY 27TH OCTOBER 2010
Was at the Customary Court, Bolade, Oshodi. The panel sat almost two hours after the proper hour. From my experience, this court hardly sits punctually. The court, without offering any apology proceeded to hear matters. But when counsel pointed out her error, the court immediately without taking any offence, did the right thing. Great.
THURSDAY 28TH OCTOBER 2010
Was in chambers all morning and half of the afternoon. No rest though. Scribe plus gecko plus lawyer, plus one or two other wahala is equal to perpetual ‘busyness.’
FRIDAY 28TH OCTOBER 2010
In the evening, with some other Tigers was at the burial ceremony of the mother of a Tiger at Ipaja. The mother died at the tender age of 87. Surely the wicked have done their worst. Gbenga Ajayi, (the affected Tiger) now a full blown orphan.

3RD WEEK OCTOBER (18TH - 22ND)

2010-12-08T11:47:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 18TH OCTOBER 2010

The Squib’s out. Cover story AONDOAKAA: CDHR TACKLES DAODU.

Was in chambers through-out today. Other geckos on the field though Geckos don’t rest. Even when they (appear to) close their eyes.

TUESDAY 19TH OCTOBER 2010

Today, the launching of Richard Akinmola’s book: The Murder of Dele Giwa, the Answered-Questions. Just couldn’t make the programme. Too, too busy in chamber.

Later in the afternoon came to the Tigers’ Lair. The Elekun himself Adebamigbe Omole. FESOJOYE the 1st, the branch chair was there. Quickening of preparations for the stakeholders’ Summit Organised by the branch coming up on Thursday.

WEDNESDAY 20TH OCTOBER 2010

More preparations by Tiger Chiefs for the stakeholders’ Summit tomorrow. Even as at 8.30pm, tiger chiefs were still at the venue, over seeing the clearing and cleaning up of the place.

Earlier, in the evening, the chiefs had a brief meeting with the chief judge Lagos State. Family chatting.

THURSDAY 21ST OCTOBER 2010

Was at the Lagos High Court the Commercial Division, a the Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan Lagos presiding judge and opposing counsel ready. I wasn’t. Pity. Adjournment granted because I was leaving to attend the function of the Bar.

The stake holders’ summit took place. Kicked off behind schedule, but was a rich and thought provoking exercise. No surprise though. Lawyers are power houses of robust arguments any day. And now Tigers in addition. The summit was adjourned around 3.00pm to November 1 2010, the monthly meeting day of the Tigers.

Suitable, you said?

FRIDAY 22ND OCTOBER 2010

Worked on Gecko business for hours in chambers

2ND WEEK OCTOBER 2010 (11TH - 16TH)

2010-11-03T15:40:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 11TH OCTOBER 2010
The Squib’s out cover story-“Bazooka Hits Aondoakaa”. Was at the Ikeja High Court. For Bar and Gecko duties.

TUESDAY 12TH OCTOBER 2010
Was at the Lagos High Court. For a matter. Didn’t go on. Because the honourable trial judge couldn’t pass the “Red Sea” that had separated Ikorodu and other surrounding areas, since about a fortnight ago from Mainland and Island Lagos

WEDNESDAY 13TH OCTOBER 2010
Was at the Family Court (Magistrate) Ikeja for a matter. Interesting court – family court. After my case, repaired to the Tiger land lair.
Met the remnants of a fight that broke out, at the Bar centre during a compulsory conference between parties in a matrimonial matter at the High Court.
While the brother of the wife offered the husband a sharp slap to the cheeks, the husband did a vampire on the neck of his brother-in-law. By then counsel to the petitioner and respondent had jumped ship. Serious.

THURSDAY 14TH OCTOBER 2010
Spent all my day at the lair of the Tigers. Doing the business of the Tigers

FRIDAY 15TH OCTOBER 2010
Just like yesterday. In the afternoon. But in the evening, things looked up much better. Attended a law undergraduates dinner.
Nice enough fare, although my hosts alias “lawyers-in-equity” would need to do better in some areas like imbibing the culture of the profession as it pertains to taste, dressing and language use.

SATURDAY 16TH OCTOBER 2010
All day retreat at the Bar Centre for Ikeja Bar Executive Committee. Was there. Happy and useful deliberations, I assure you.

2ND WEEK MAY 2010 (10TH - 14TH)

2010-06-24T23:47:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 10TH MAY 2010
The Squib’s out. Cover Story – ‘Why Magistrates Struck and Will Strike Again;Tiger Bar’s Week of Fun, Law and Service; Only the Truly Committed Can Serve the Bar Best’ Adebamigbe Omole Esq. chairmanship candidate NBA Ikeja branch.

Was at the TBS Division, Onikan of the High Court. For a case came to Ikeja High Court. Attended the monthly meeting of the Ikeja Bar. Tough, hot meeting, verbal fracas over rendering accounts by the Treasurer. After much brouhaha, it was agreed that the issue of accounts be reserved for the AGM in June while the chairman directed the Treasurer (Gloria Nweze), Financial Secretary (Leye Omitola) and Akinjide Bakare (Auditor) to meet over the issue latest Friday the 14th May 2010.

Even greater brouhaha arose over the nomination or rather appointment of Electoral Committee members for the branch election in June. Some political actors wanted to direct the nomination procedure out of constitutional provisions. The bid failed but not without considerable ruckus.
At the end of the day, the constitutional provisions were followed and only three names were announced to wit: Mrs. Akindiji, Mr. Olumide Fusika and Mr. Quadri.
TUE. 11TH MAY 2010
Your truly on campaigns. First Gecko wants to become Tiger Bar General Secretary. Let all geckos unite and vote him in.
WED. 12TH MAY 2010
Was at the Tafawa Balewa Square Onikan division of the Lagos State High Court for a case.
All geckos of the world rejoice. For the siege is over. Details later, much later! But let me quickly add. Some of those who were witnesses to history were Dave, Dare and Gladys!
FRI 14TH MAY 2010
Ladies and gentlemen, the campaign continued!
Learnt yesterday, from top sources in the judiciary that things would soon take a rosier turn for Lagos State magistrates.
Recall that the magistrates went on a “warning strike” a couple of weeks ago, essentially in protest against their poor work environment and conditions of service.
According to our sources, the magistrates would soon take delivery of new cars while the authorities are working out effective means of getting needed stationeries to the courts. The augmentation of their pay packets is also said to be receiving due attention, while the first of the mega-courts, housing about 30 magistrate courts would be commissioned in June 2010 at Igbosere, Lagos.

2ND WEEK APRIL 2010 (12TH - 17TH)

2010-06-24T23:32:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MON. 12TH APRIL 2010
The Squib is not out. Just like last week. Attended the monthly meeting of the Tigers. Lively meeting as usual. Electoral campaigns for the June Elections declared open.
TUE. 13TH APRIL 2010
Heard that valedictory service for Justice George Oguntade JSC held. In Abuja.
Heard too that the unending case of C.J Lagos vs Adesina Ogunlana also held. Also in Abuja. Matter was adjourned to a yet to be fixed date.
WED. 14TH APRIL 2010
Not much work.
THUR. 15TH APRIL 2010
Was at the Federal High Court for the Adesina Ogunlana vs Ibitola Sotuminu C.J & Ors. Matter adjourned to May 24 2010. Injunction restraining defendants from continuing with the trial of the applicant renewed.
FRI. 16TH APRIL 2010
Came to the Lagos City Hall for a Book Launch in honour of Oguntade JSC. Instead beheld a horrible sight – Ibrahim Babangida,same one, addressing thegathering from the podium. Alas for this great country.
Animal wan teach me human rights! So sang Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
SAT. 17TH APRIL 2010
With leading Tigers attended a forum of lawyers of the Edo and Delta States. Later we visited our own dear Ngozi Akpnonu former Assitant General Secretary of the Tiger Bar – now Hon. Justice Ngozi Azinge of the Delta State High Court.
No small matter when you get to eat hot pounded yam with thick Egusi Soup in a judge’s home. Hmmmmmmmmm!

3RD WEEK MARCH 2010 (15TH - 20TH)

2010-06-24T23:31:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MON. MAR. 15 2010
The Squib’s out. Cover Story: AKANDEQUAKE HITS LAGOS JUDGES. Squib selling like hot cake. Finished early at the High Court Ikeja today.
TUE. MAR. 16 2010
Was at the Magistrate Court, Tapa this morning. Tapa is famous for its ‘container’ courts. It is a matter of one container, one court.
WED. MAR. 17 2010
First port of call, for duty is the ‘Welfare Court’ Ikeja. After finishing there, came over to the Ikeja High Court. For another court. Saw people earnestly asking for Squib – the week’s edition had sold out since yesterday!
THUR. MAR.18 2010
Came to the Lagos High Court. For a case. Got free only at about 2.00pm. Trial days are often like that.
FRI. MAR. 19 2010
From morning till noon, in chambers, work. Quite a lot to catch up on. Had a brief chance meeting with the Tiger Bar Young Lawyers’ Forum. Cool guys and babes there. Their leader is Seyi Olawunmi Esq.
SAT. MAR. 20 2010
Was at the Ikeja Police College. For the weekend Sports and Fitness programmes of the Ikeja Bar.
Three other Tigers turned up.
Exercised our bodies, jogging and kicking (soccer) balls!

2ND WEEK MARCH 2010 (8TH - 13TH)

2010-06-24T23:29:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 8TH MAR. 2010
The Squib’s out. Cover Story: ‘INFAMOUS CONDUCT ALLEGATION: ‘SUE ME IF YOU LIKE! SQUIB “PROFESSOR OF LAW” DARES SENIOR ADVOCATES. Came to the Ikeja High Court for a matter. Left the court to gecko in one or two other courts.
TUE. 9TH MAR. 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a matter. It went on. Received invitation by SMS to come to a particular high court to witness a “funny” proceedings that would take place on Thursday this week in one particular High Court.
WED. 10TH MAR. 2010
Came to the Ikeja High Court for a matter. It went on. Started to gecko about for news about the mass re-postings of thejudges of the Lagos State High Court. Fished here. Fished there.
FRI. 11TH MAR. 2010
Spent all morning in chambers. Dashed to the Ikeja High Court in the afternoon. Left an hour later for NBA related matters.
SAT. 13TH MAR. 2010
Was present for the Tigers sport and fitness programme at the Police College Ikeja. About four other Tigers present. In the evening in company of three top Tigers paid a brief visit to Barrister Segun Ogunleye’s Gentlemen of Valour club having its AGM at the Oyins Holiday Hotel, Abaranje, Ikotun Lagos. Enjoyment Galore. Ahem!

1ST WEEK MARCH 2010 (1ST - 6TH)

2010-06-24T23:27:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY Vol.10 No. 19(1ST – 6TH)
MON. 1ST MAR. 2010
The Squib’s out. Cover Story: “Why Nigerian Lawyers should embrace CBA” Boma Ozobia. Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a matter. Wonder why trial judge was tetchy today.
TUE. 2ND MAR. 2010
Was at the Lagos High Court. For a case. Went on. Faced a veteran at trial. Today a major reorganization took place in our chambers.
WED. 3RD MAR. 2010
Adesina Ogunlana vs NBA & Ors. Adjourned yet once again. At the Federal High Court, Ikoyi Lagos to April 15 2010. Came to the Lagos High Court, Igbosere, only to find that the courts were in darkness. No ‘government’ light and generator light. The generating set had broken down again.
THUR. 4TH MAR. 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a matter in one of those funny courts of ours. Matter couldn’t go on because presiding judge would be having a meeting with the Chief Judge at 12.00p.m. “It’s because I’m still mourning my late husband that’s why I am so unkempt,” wailed the proverbial slut.
FRI. 5TH MAR. 2010
In and out of the Ikeja High Court today. Silenced a vixen today. Somebody praise the Lord with me. His love endureth forever.
SAT. 6TH MAR. 2010
Was at the Police College Ikeja with four other tigers. Jogged and soccered. Nice Time Out.

3RD WEEK FEB 2010 (22ND - 27TH)

2010-06-24T23:26:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
Vol.10 No.18
MON.22ND FEB.2010
The Squib’s out. Cover Story, “LAWYER SCATTERS COURT WITH HISSING. “ had a rather nasty road incident this morning. Squib mobile hit an absent minded old man on the express way. “Dr. Bone” to the rescue for the hapless man. The panel beater to the rescue of the Squib mobile.
TUE.23RD FEB. 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For cases. One held, the other, not. Noticed that the outward beautification of the Chief Judge’s office is completed.
WED.24TH FEB. 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a case. Appeared before my favourite judge. Noticed that the judge was a bit on the less cool side today;. Saw less of the famous cool, amiable nature today in him, em, her.
THUR. 25TH FEB. 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a trial. Held but not concluded. Hear that the generator supplying Lagos High Courts with light has gone up in smoke again. It did that only a fortnight or so again. Now the courts are in darkness once again.
FRI. 26TH FEB. 2010
Public Holiday. The Birthday of the Prophet Mohammed. I call it Mohammedmas. After all there is a Christmas.
SAT. 27TH FEB. 2010
Six Tigers in their Tiger Train went to the University of Ife, Ile-Ife, Osun State. For the wedding reception of Barrister Abiodun Omidare’s brother’s wedding. Fortified my tummy enroute the journey to avoid the usual “wedding Passover syndrome.” Couldn’t help but admire the majestic and cultivated sprawl of “Great Ife,” my old school.

2ND WEEK FEB 2010 (15TH - 20TH)

2010-06-24T23:23:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MON. 15TH FEB. 2010
The Squib’s out. Our Cover Story: “The False Imprisonment of the Lagos Chief Judge.” See: http://www.squibcoverstory.blogspot.com
Came to the Ikeja High Court. For a matter. For judgement in a case really. Judgement was delivered. The loser turned out to be a winner while the winner turned out to be the loser. Was a chieftaincy dispute matter with plenty of criminal law colouration.
The Tiger Bar held her Emergency meeting today on the vexed issue of whether or not the Senior Advocate of Nigeria title should be abolished.
The Tigers had already decided in their January meeting in favour of the abolition of the title. This position was opposed (naturally) by members who are Senior Advocates. Athe the February 1 2010 monthly meeting of the Tigers, the silks had caused by their pressure, the schedule of the extra-ordinary meeting for the purpose of “revisiting” the issue.
The extra-ordinary meeting lasted from 1.30 p.m till almost 4.00 p.m but the issue was never revisited. Much to the chagrin of the silks, who had mobilized “millions” of junior counsel in their various chambers to the meeting to support their position.
Knowing that it was a ‘loaded congregation,’ the abolitionists simply stymied the “revisit” by advancing reasons why it was impolite to do a revisit.
The strategy worked as the arguments of the abolitionists won out the silks who thought it was by “power and might” that such contests were won.
The main killers of the Project Revisit the Abolition of SAN decision were Steve Kuyoro, Alex Onabrakpeya, Bamidele Aturu and Adesina Ogunlana Esq. who presented constitutional, moral, even ethical reasons clothed in combustive oratory to ensure that the project failed.
When the ding-dong debate was stretching far too long, it was Ogunlana who put a stop to it with his brutal and emphatic query.
“why should we for the sake of these Senior Advocates revisit our decision to vote for abolition of the SAN title.
Why should we so indulge them? Except for our constant stars, Layi Babatunde SAN and Dele Adesina SAN the others are never with us. They don’t attend meetings. Even on February 1 when the issue of revisit was raised, the silks left the meeting, once their issue was discussed.
I move the motion that an end be put to this meeting and that it should be adjourned.” The motion sailed in without any opposition.
TUE. 16TH FEB. 2010.
With other Tiger chiefs, departed our beloved lair – the Tiger’s bar secretariat for Yola. Time was 4.00 p.m.
Stopped at Akure for the night.
WED. 17TH FEB. 2010.
The journey to Yola, for the NBA’s NEC meeting continued. Tigers rode on in our Tiger Train. Long distance journeys can be so tiring. Left Akure 5.59a.m., arrived Yola 12.25 a.m!
THUR. 18TH FEB. 2010.
Woke up to a bright, sunny and hot Yola morning. With other Tigers, turned up for the NEC meeting. After a hearty yam, scrambled egg and tea breakfast. Hardly had the meeting started when the president, Rotimi Akeredolu SAN and the General Secretary, Ibrahim Eddy-Mark started bickering over which minutes of the last meeting should be considered authentic and proper to be presented to the present meeting.
In the afternoon session, the issues of whether the national offices of the NBA should be subjected to the “ZONING or INCLUSION” formula and also whether the Senior Advocate of Nigeria title be abolished were adjourned to the next meeting for discussions and possible decisions since only 26 out of the 88 branches of the NBA had sent in their respective positions on them.
Attended a dinner at the ABTI Club Yola, sponsored by Ricky Tarfa SAN, a Yola indigene. Enough to eat and drink. Good cheer was assured by the presence of a comedian called Osama.
FRI. 19TH FEB. 2010.
The journey back to Lagos started early, 6.20 a.m. stopped for the night at about 10.30 at Okene, Kogi State.
The most unimpressive state capital in the modern world must be Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State. Look nothing other than a big disheveled hamlet. P;assed through this cattle and straw town near noon on our way down south. Really is Jalingo one of Nigeria’s state capitals?
SAT. 20TH FEB. 2010
Lagos at last. 4.00 p.m. May the name of God, be praised!

IST WEEK FEB. 2010 (8TH - 13TH)

2010-06-24T23:20:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MON. 8TH FEB. 2010
The Squib’s out. Cover story: SILKS IN SOUP. Came to the Ikeja High Court for a matter. Around 10.30 a. m the lights went out. Undeterred, the judge ordered partial dishabiliment, to wit, counsel were free to remove their wigs and gowns, and the session continued.
Now that’s one judge ready to work, Jose .J.
Today moved to Squib’s new office at 185 Ikorodu Rd., Palmgrove. Bye-bye to 197A Ikorodu Road.
TUE. 9TH FEB. 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a matter. Couldn’t go on because of defective service of process by the bailiff. Guess one needs scrutinizing affidavits of service sworn to by the sheriffs. To avoid embarrassment in court. Vice-President Jonathan Goodluck became Acting President today after almost four months of President Umar Yar’Adua’s “offshore” sickness.
WED. 10TH FEB. 2010
The ‘interesting’ case of Julius Adelaja v Adesina & Ors, a.k.a “The Dirty Lawyer” case came up today at the magistrate court, Ojo, Lagos. The presiding magistrate declined jurisdiction, and transferred the matter to the appropriate jurisdiction for trial.
Learnt of the fire incident at the Generator House of the Lagos State High Court Igbosere, Lagos only yesterday.
The whole complex consequently thrown into darkness, stalling court sittings.
THUR. 11TH FEB. 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Heard the rather interesting news that Lagos State magistrates now sign attendance registers showing when they arrive for work and depart.
That’s a novel administrative move to curb absenteeism or lazy work on the part of the honourable magistrates. But will it work?
FRI. 12TH FEB. 2010
Came to the Tiger’s Den, the Secretariat of the Ikeja Bar late afternoon. All the Chief Tigers had gone out ‘hunting.’ For the entitlements of the Ikeja Bar from the national secretariat.
SAT. 13TH FEB. 2010
At least six Tigers turned up for the Sports Programme of the Ikeja Bar. At the Police College Ikeja grounds.
A tigress brought sliced pineapples. Yum, yum, ah, so refreshing!

4TH WEEK JANUARY 2010

2010-02-12T09:16:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 25TH JANUARY 2010
The Squib’s out Thank God. The second in the year. Cover story HON. CHIEF JUDGE, IS SOMEBODY ‘CHOPPING’ THE MONEY? http://squibcoverstory.blogspot.com/2010/01/hon-chief-judge-is-somebody-chopping.html
Came to the Ikeja High Court. For a criminal matter. Matter could not go on as neither prosecution or prosecutor’s witness were in court.

TUESDAY 26TH JANUARY 2010
Was at the Lagos High Court. For a matter. The matter, went on. Ealier on in the morning was at the Federal High Court for the case of Adesina Ogunlana vs Nigerian Bar Association. The case did not go on. No respondent or respondent’s counsel in court. No papers from the respondents. Wonderful. Case adjourned to March 3 2010.

WEDNESDAY 27TH JANUARY 2010
Watched on the T.V. at the Bar centre of the Tiger Bar, the piping of Nigeria’s so called Super-Eagles 1-0 by Ghana Senior Football Team (the Black Stars). Though sad, was very pleased. Becase a ragtag team led by a visibly dejected looking coach like Shuaibu Ahmadu had no business at big competitions like Africa’s Nations’ Cup or the World Cup.

THURSDAY 28TH JANUARY 2010
Came down to the Lagos High Court Igbosere. For a case. Shortly after ‘jetted’ to the Maximum Security Prison. To see two or three clients. Visitors to the Maximum place now restricted to about two hundred metres to the gate of the prison, while waiting for permission to meet with inmates.
The reception is nothing more than a dusty ground and the inadequate shade of two far apart trees.
Wonder how people would cope when the rains come.

FRIDAY 29TH JANUARY 2010
Was at Ikoyi in the afternoon. Pursuant to a court order. Finally extricated myself from the tangles of lawyers and their curious arts and managed to escape back to the mainland by 5.00pm. Spent an hour or thereabouts in the offices of AELEX. Nice, big place. Met an old friend there. Made new friends there. Hope the friendship will endure when we ‘claw’ at each other in a few weeks time in court.
Privileged to see a letter granting ‘amnesty’ to the publisher of an obnoxious magazine, standing that charges against him at Golgotha would be withdrawn.
Surprisingly the fellow concerned was referred to as a ‘gentleman.’ Query: if he was a gentle man, why the amnesty?

SATURDAY 30TH JANUARY 2010
No sports programme today for the Tiger Bar. Because of the Environmental Sanitation Day curfew (7-10.00 a.m).
With some Tiger Chiefs-Dave Ajetomobi (chairman), Isa Buhari (secretary), Adebamigbe Omole, Adewale ‘prof’ Ademola, attended a colleague’s (Ehiakham Raymond Akoko) wedding reception. Barrister Akoko earlier in the day got wedded to Lydia Mareen Okonofio at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 44/48 Cole Street, Ikate, Mushin, Lagos.

See Wedding Pix at http://www.squibsociety.blogspot.com

3RD WEEK JANUARY, 2010 (18TH - 23RD)

2010-01-25T13:06:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 18TH JANUARY 2010
Was at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan High Court. For a matter that did not go on. Courtesy of the absent prosecutor.
Later went to the Court of Appeal. For a matter that went on, Guess what, at 4.00p.m!
One would have flown to Madagascar in the morning and come back and still caught up on the case.
This is a story for another day I guess

TUESDAY 19TH JANUARY 2010
Was at the Lagos High Court, Igbosere. Specifically in the Chief Judge’s court. What a full court. Well almost full. Saw a brisk, efficient if hard hand at work. An interesting court, I tell you. Much to my relief the suit that was already struck out, was resuscitated by the court.

WEDNESDAY 20TH JANUARY 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a matter. The matter went on but not after some drama and anxious-moments. The commendable flexibility and understanding of the judge saved the day however even though I was teased in the process by milady sorry, milord!

THURSDAY 21ST JANUARY 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Before my favourite judge. Yes that calm judex. By the way, who is your favourite judge? Did my case and left. Spent the rest of the evening at a pleasant haunt, geckoing seriously.

FRIDAY 22ND JANUARY 2010
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Then ‘sailed’ to Victoria Island in search of money. Came back to Ikeja and saw the Disciplinary Committee of the NBA Ikeja branch at Work. In the “Temporary” Secretariat of the Tiger Bar.

SATURDAY 23RD JANUARY 2010
Was at the Police College. For the Tiger Bar Sports Programme.
Dozens of other people also there, engaged in diverse sports, games and exercises. There were some sights that you could not but marvel at like that of a track suited trekker I saw marching all over the place. What abundance! What a spread! What an upheaval! Haba! “Ile Eru!” If a devout Muslim had seen what I saw, he would have certainly intoned “Allahu Akbar,” while a devout Christian would have exclaimed, “Glory be to God on High” and a Yoruba traditionalist, “Iba tooto Iba!”

The three Tigers who turned up enjoyed themselves thoroughly.

2ND WEEK DECEMBER '09 (7TH-12TH) LAST ENTRY FOR 2009!

2010-01-14T17:09:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 7TH DECEMBER 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover story:- “WHOSE HEAD WILL ROLL IN ENUGU”. Had two matters at the Ikeja High Court before going for the monthly meeting of the Tiger Bar.
It was a historic meeting, for it would be the last ever monthly meeting the NBA Ikeja branch in the bungalow.
Come January 1 2010 the building would have been pulled down to make way for the new secretariat of the Tigers-a 3 story building.

TUESDAY 8th DECEMBER 2009
Was at the Lagos High Court for a matter. Saw Mrs. Hairat Balogun, former chairman Body of Benchers in a silk gown. Though only Senior Advocates of Nigeria can put on the silk. Or is the madam a silk, unbeknownst to me?
Must ask mama, one or two questions when next I see her.

WEDNESDAY 9th DECEMBER 2009
Left for Enugu today. For the NBA NEC meeting. In the well known charger of the NBA Ikeja branch - our 42 Seater Bus. With some other Tigers. A tilapian, Squibese for any member of the NBA Lagos Island Branch came for a ride with us. Likewise some of our children (NBA Ikorodu) from Ikorodu branch.
What a jolly ride. Jokes and ‘gists’ all the way. At Awka, comforts in skirts floated into our bus. Tigers love meat you know.
The most impressive town on the way to Enugu was Onitsha. For the wrong reasons - filth, bad roads and traffic jams.

THURSDAY 10th DECEMBER 2009
The NEC meeting of the NBA held. From 9:00am to 8:00pm. Break for two hours 2-4.00pm. All the motions and talks about impeachment of the President (Rotimi Akeredolu) and General Secretary (Ibrahim Eddy Mark) fizzled out. In fact no motion was moved or discussed. Courtesy of the “family affair” approach of dealing with the intra Exco dispute between the President and the General Secretary. (For details see the cover storyhttp://www.squibcoverstory.blogspot.com and learn further about the “Okpoko-ised solution)”

FRIDAY 11TH DECEMBER 2009
Left Enugu for Lagos, with other Tigers and our guests from Ikorodu and Lagos.
This return journey was easier and faster than the visiting. Arrived Lagos 6.56pm. And straight to the exacting arms of that ardent mistress Squib. She must be gotten ready for the outing next week.

SATURDAY 12TH DECEMBER 2009
Barrister Seyi Olawunmi, Chairman of the Young Lawyers Forum, Ikeja branch got married today. So many Tigers and Tigresses there. Was there too. In spirit.

FIRST WEEK DECEMBER 2009 (30TH NOV’-5TH DEC.09)

2009-12-14T04:04:00.000-08:00

MON. 30TH NOVEMBER 2009
Oh, the Squib’s not out today, meaning that the Squib on the stands was last week’s. Our apologies to dear Squibbers, especially those who persisted in troubling our correspondents for their “Monday-Monday tonic!”

Came to Ikeja High Court. For two cases. Had a meeting at the Bar Centre (NBA Ikeja Secretariat). Our new secretariat is coming up. All eyes will behold it.

TUE. 1ST DECEMBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. People were asking: “where is this week’s Squibb?” Did you publish this week?” etc.

WED. 2ND DECEMBER 2009
Came to the Ikeja High Court. The usual court scene of litigants, lawyers, loafers, staffers, etc, all about.

That cholera/dysentery cesspool at the entrance of Justice Alogba’s court now bigger, yet the authorities continue to turn a blind eye. What a shame!

THUR. 3RD DECEMBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a matter. Before an engaging judge. Laptopped judex. May be to kill boredom, this obviously intellectual adjudicator played mental games with counsel, a kind of legal swordsmanship.

FRI. 4TH DECEMBER 2009
Came to the “Tafawa Balewa Square Court” Onikan, Lagos! Is there any such court? Though not so named, it won’t be wrong to refer to the 11 High Courts sited at the Old National Assembly Building, Lagos.

Did my case and then took off to the Ikeja High Court. The world Cup 2010 draws held in South Africa, today.

Nigeria in the same group with Argentina, South Korea and Greece. We should qualify from this group, for the second round. At least.

SAT. 5TH DECEMBER 2009
With three other Tigers came to the Police College, Ikeja for the Ikeja Bar’s weekend sports programme.

Our fun was stopped mid-way, by one self important fellow, who drove his shiny black jeep right on to the field to bark peremptorily at us: “carry your ball!”

The big man cop, obviously showing off his ride, still wheeled round to the edge of the field that we retired to, to ask, “you want me to seize your ball?”

You would have thought us erring school boys and the fellow, the high and mighty Mr. School Principal!

Imagine our mortification, when the man disclosed to us that “I am a lawyer too!” Lawyer?

3RD WEEK NOVEMBER 09 (16TH - 21ST)

2009-11-25T11:42:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 16TH NOVEMBER 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover Story- “Will the Trial judge, suffer for convicting Chief Olabode George?” Was at the Ikeja High Court. Regular People. Regular Sights-including the Excreta filled frontage of Justice Alogba’s court.
Expectedly, there were some talks about on the loss of the finals of the under 17 FIFA World Cup tournament by Nigeria to Switzerland by 1-0 yesterday. At any rate, there was some consolation in the air - Nigeria qualified for the World Cup for the 4th time on Saturday 14 November, by beating Kenya 3-2 and topping their group ahead of the more likely winner Tunisia.

TUESDAY 17TH NOVEMBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. But for a brief while. Moved on to the Lagos High Court-For this and that legal preparation, for a serious case, coming up tomorrow.

WEDNESDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2009
Busy, busy day. God knows my bones too. Did three cases in two courts, in two high courts all in a space of three hours. After finishing the first two cases at the High court at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan, literally sprinted to make the third in good time, at the Lagos High Court Igbosere, more than half a kilometer away.

THURSDAY 19TH NOVEMBER 2009
Woke up to find that the Lord of the Dry Air, a.k.a harmattan had arrived town. Got to the Ikeja High Court and spent a few hours there, particularly, at the new “out-going” secretariat of the Tiger Bar.
In a matter of weeks, or even days, the bungalow would be pulled down, after more than twenty years of service, to pave way for the Tiger’s new office edifice.
All eyes will behold it. Amen!

FRIDAY 20TH NOVEMBER 2009
Was in the chambers all through today. It’s like that sometimes, you know.

SATURDAY 21ST NOVEMBER 2009
Came to the Police College Ikeja grounds for the Tigers Bar Sportif Programme. Only two other tigers turned up. No problem though. We still had our exercise and fun.

2ND WEEK NOVEMBER 09 ( 9TH-13TH)

2009-11-24T16:04:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 9TH NOVEMBER 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover story- How Bode's boys Batter(sic) Barrister in court. http://www.squibcoverstory.blogspot.com
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Lest I forget, since two weeks now, the open registry which was shifted to two former court rooms and chambers (Justice Adesanya’s court and Justice Dayo Oyebanji court) have relocated back to their former offices, “ever and more modern too”, directly behind Justice Oshodi’s court.

TUESDAY 10TH NOVEMBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Moved around, lawyering and 'geckoing,' if you know what I mean.

WEDNESAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2009
Hectic Day. First bus-stop: The magistrate court, Ebute-metta. Waited for hours on end (9.00-1:15p.m) for presiding magistrate to show up.
When his honour came (from new base) with some explanation work started. From Ebute-Metta dashed down to the Lagos High Court, before leaving off to Ikeja High Court. For a meeting of the Tiger Bar Executive Committee.

THURSDAY 12TH NOVEMBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Regular lawyer’s job. Sorted these out and geckoed a bit. The chairman (Dave Ajetomobi), 1st Vice Chairman, (Dare Akande), the secretary (Isa Buhari) of the Tiger Bar and one or two members of the branch off to Osogbo to the law week of the Osogbo bar. That’s one fun-trip the 1st Gecko had to miss.

FRIDAY 13TH NOVEMBER 2009
Thank God it’s Friday. So far, had been a hectic week. Most times, it’s like that - work, work and work…and yet more work.
Notice that progress continues in the building of the New Secretariat of the NBA Ikeja branch. Bravo! But more work yet.

1ST WEEK NOVEMBER 09 (2ND - 7TH)

2009-11-10T17:06:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 2ND NOVEMBER 2009
The Squib's out. Cover story? “BODE GEORGE GOES TO "SCHOOL” The jailing of a prominent politician by a High Court Judge, (Oyewole J.) last week.
It was a full house in the courts this morning as litigants, lawyers and other members of the public were around in large number. The situation could have been different. If the Lagos State branch of the Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) had joined their other colleagues in some other states to embark on industrial action.

The JUSUN, Lagos branch is quite an important branch - it is not only the largest, but the most sophisticated and located in the very capital of journalism in Nigeria - Lagos. The failure of the JUSUN-Lagos to join the strike, took the shine off the action across the nation. Can tell that branch members are divided over the “non-joining” posture of Lagos JUSUN. While some said it was strategic, others accused the branch leaders of compromising their interests in the new alliance with the new chief judge of Lagos State.

TUESDAY 3RD NOVEMBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Spent only about thirty minutes, there before “Vamoosing.” Can see great progress being made in the building of the new secretariat of the NBA Ikeja branch.

WEDNESDAY 4TH NOVEMBER 2009
Arrived the Lagos High Court, Igbosere for a case. Bemusedly watched as a counsel jumped up to tell the honourable presiding judge that he was representing the defendant (accused) who had just briefed him that morning. Yet half a minute before then another counsel had announced appearance, for the same defendant. When the judge asked the man in the dock to identify his counsel of the two, he disowned “Mr. just-newly briefed-counsel!” May be it was a case of the devil you know...

THURSDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2009
Was at the Lagos Ikeja High Court. For a matter. Never went on. Moved on to the Magistrate Court Ebute-Metta, where I saw a “Charge and Bail” brethren on his customary perch on a table, placed in such a way that all ingress and egress into the court’s compound was open to the perching counsel. Well positioned, you’d say!

FRIDAY 6TH NOVEMBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a case. Did it and “zoomed” off to the Ebute-metta magistrate court. What a dirty court. Gaining access thereto was also a bother. The road was choked up with haphazardly packed vehicles. Even though there are ten courts at the EBT magistrate court, it has no registry. All filings take place in the magistrate court Sabo. Rushed down to Sabo and filed papers. The Sabo court is by far cleaner and 'saner' than Ebute-Metta’s.

SATURDAY 7TH NOVEMBER 2009
Was at the Police College Ikeja playing ground for the sport and fitness programme of the NBA Ikeja branch. Only one Tiger participated today. My humble self. Managed to have a good time though. After, moved to the bar centre to join some other 'Exco' members to supervise the offloading of several tonnes of cement bags there. Who says the Tigers are not going to have a bigger and more befitting secretariat soon?

4TH WEEK OCTOBER (26TH - 30TH)

2009-11-06T07:36:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 26TH OCT 09

The Squib's out. Coverstory on the mass re-posting of Magistrates by the new Chief Judge of Lagos State Inumidun Akande J.

Arrived Ikeja High court only to find it in the grip of bedlam. Confusion reigned in the adjourning streets of Compound A of the Ikeja High Court as the gates thereto were firmly locked against members of the public, lawyers, litigants and judiciary staff.

Reason? Judgement in the Case of FRN vs Olabode George in progress. In Honourable Justice Olubunmi Oyewole’s court.

Quite a struggle it was at the gate as people battled to enter the court compound to attend to their various businesses.

Little respite until about 12.30pm. News surfaced around 1.pm that Bode “Lagos Boy” George and his other co-accused had received mandate to have two years stay at the Maximum prisons Kirikiri.

Could confirm that the Chief Judge of Lagos State Inumidun Akande J had cleared her office of attached furniture therein. New seats now in use in the C.J’s office. Hope that the change will extend to other courts.

TUESDAY 27TH OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Lagos Ikeja High Court. For a case that went on. Court today wasits normal self, free of the “Bode George effect” of yesterday. The rain, in the afternoon, fell. Hard, heavy and furious.

WEDNESDAY 28TH OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Lagos High Court today. The court at Igbosere and one at the Tafawa Balewa Square. Couldn’t but smile to myself when some fellows hailed my entrance with some funny salutations and hailing, “Awaiting SAN!” International Lawyer! Editor-in-Chief! SAN-in-waiting! Squib baba! Guess that you too are now smiling. The whole thing smacked of commercial praise singing.

THURSDAY 29TH OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Federal High Court. For the Ogunlana vs Sotuminu & Ors Case. Matter did not go on as the judge did not sit.

FRIDAY 30TH OCTOBER 2009
Spent at least two hours covering the 8 kilometer distance between my house and the Ikeja High Court. Courtesy, traffic jam.

The mandatory continuous education of the NBA held at the Bar Centre of the Ikeja High Court. Scanty attendance. Later in the day, watched at the Bar Centre, the soccer match between Nigeria and Argentina in the Under 17 FIFA World Cup taking place in Nigeria.
Nigeria won 2-1.

3RD WEEK OCTOBER (19TH - 24TH)

2009-11-06T07:31:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 19TH OCTOBER 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover story on the use of attached goods in the offices of the Lagos state Judiciary. Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a case. In Justice Mufutau Olokooba’s court. Matter adjourned till tomorrow. Outside the court on the corridor saw Major Al-Mustapha, former Police Commissioner James Danbaba and two others of their case-mates (the Alex Ibru attempted murder case). In a swell of symphatizers. That case has been on since 1999.
Strolled to the front of the chief judge’s office. Noticed beautification project in progress. Was glad to hear that at the High Court in Igbosere, Lagos, the Chief Judge sat. Understood her cause list for the day had 22 cases and she heard them all. Hmmm, what a departure from a period in the past when a particular chief judge used to sit once in a blue moon?
Heard that last week the chief judge with her chief registrar and deputy chief registrars went on an inspection tour of various courts in the state.

TUESDAY 20TH OCTOBER 2009
Was in Ikeja High Court. For wig and gown business. My matters went on. The court rooms appeared dirty. Heard that the contractor in-charge of cleaning up the environment has been sacked. No replacement yet.

WEDNESDAY 21ST OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Lagos High Court. For a case. Matter did not go on, although the court sat. After spending some time geckoing, left for a snap visit to the Lands Registry and the Ministry of Justice, Alausa Ikeja before finally berthing at the secretariat of the Tiger Bar Ikeja .

THURSDAY 22ND OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Ogba Police Station. The Area ‘G’. Proper trouble house. A lot of hollering all around. Cops here and there. With guns and guns without.
Left the place in good time. Then went for a meeting of bar leaders with the Chief Judge Lagos State. Fruitful meeting.

FRIDAY 23RD OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Lagos High Court. The one at the old National Assembly building at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan. For a case. Saw a retired judge, now in the form and shape of a litigant. How true the proverbs of our fathers-
Igba o tan lo bi orere
Orere omo olofin
(no permanence in the
stations and affairs of men)

SATURDAY 24TH OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Police College for the Tiger’s Sports Programme. At a point, was the only Tiger present. Then the chairman of the branch ‘surfaced’. Later the scriptures that “If yea refused to worship the Lord, then these very trees would raise up their voices to praise him” came true. Four damsels emerged from nowhere to apply to the Elekun of Ekun land, and my humble self, the Mayegun of Ikeja Bar and the Majeobaje of Tigerland to kick balls with us. Only dead Tigers would reject such application.
Needless to say, we all had a wonderful time together. You know?

2ND WEEK OCTOBER 09 (12TH - 17TH)

2009-11-06T07:27:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 12TH OCTOBER 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover Story is “WHEN CAN LAWYERS DRESS SHABBILY?”
Noticed that more and more digging up in the old secretariat of the NBA Ikeja branch. Remember the Tigers are set to have a befitting three Story building for office to replace their pre-fab bungalow.
Did some filing at the Open Registry of the Court and zoomed off to the Land Registry for some other work. The L.T is an apparent gold-mine for the government-the parking lot fee alone is #500.00 per car, per visit. Yet scant space for vehicles to park.
As usual with most government establishment, demanding and collecting gratification is a life-style here. While one staff told us “the “machine” is not working” another explained it is the toner that is finished, but if you put something on top, your job will be given priority” while another yet called us to a private conference saying after “you finish in that office ‘X’ and that office ‘Y’, bring your papers, I’ll help you to submit it.
Believe me, Nigeria is a funny country. Assessed fees were paid to an “under the tree” branch of the Access Bank, in the form of four young men in a black car, armed with payment vouchers/receipts, in a shopping complex a road away and opposite the Lands Registry. You wondered at the arrangement!

TUESDAY 13TH OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court for a case that couldn’t go on. Reason the court room’s air-conditioning packed up. Honourable Judge couldn’t sit in sweltering heat. In the High Court Ikeja, compound ‘A’ there’s no more Food Canteen. The age-long operator, may be of more than twenty years stay, been sent packing. Heard that the new Administration of Chief Judge Inumidun Akande is responsible for the sack-part of the effort to re-brand the High Court premises.

WEDNESDAY 14TH OCTOBER 2009
It rained, and rained and rained. Cats and dogs, it rained, here in Lagos. For about six hours (6.30-1.00pm) thereabouts.
The wet weather affected matters in court as so many legal practitioners arrived late to court. Adjournment of matters galore!

THURSDAY 15TH OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Federal High Court Ikoyi-Lagos. For Adesina Ogunlana vs Justice Ibitola Sotuminu &Ors. Matter was adjourned.

FRIDAY 16TH OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Federal High Court. Once more. For a very important case. Very. Would give you fuller gist later.
Saw a particular judge of the Federal High Court. Only yesterday, he was a counsel, just like you and I. Now he is now a patridge on the ridge-a judge.
Wished milord the very best in his new station of life. We actually prayed together, briefly right there and then on the way.
Came down to the Ikeja High Court, late in the afternoon. At the bar centre (secretariat of the NBA Ikeja) saw a lot of development work in progress at the site. Soon the old straggle would fo down. Well, that’s life.

SATURDAY 17TH OCTOBER 2009
Can you imagine this-The NBA Ikeja’s Tigers Sportif Club is one year old? The Tiger Bar Sports and Fitness programme started October 18 2009.
We thank God.
Tigers and their families who turned up for the proramme, had a nice time, running, jugging and later playing football.
Fresh limed paw0paw and pineapple were eaten, courtesy Glo(ria) Nwenze, the treasurer of the branch. Photographs were taken later of the attendees.

1ST WEEK OCTOBER 09(5TH - 10TH)

2009-11-06T07:22:00.000-08:00

SQUIBDIARY

MONDAY 5TH OCTOBER 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover story-“Why They Are After Me” -Dele Oye NBA PROSECUTOR CRIES OUT.
Spent hours with the motor-repair man. Came late for the Tiger Bar meeting. But still met some action. The talk on the floor when I came in was on the controversy of scrapping the Senior Advocate of Nigeria Award or not.
Incidentally at the meeting of about 200 lawyers, only one Senior Advocate - Dele Adesina S.A.N, formerly Deacon, now pastor was present.
Wondered at his feelings as criticisms of his class and rank flowed ceaselessly. Hot, sharp criticisms for that matter. When the silk spoke, it was a dance in all directions before finally gravitating to an imprecise centre. Can’t blame the poor silk, he was in a lonely minority, more like a case of “Christian seek yet no rest for you are amidst foes!"

Another interesting topic of discussion was the imprisonment of Mr. Adebayo Jegede by Justice Olusola Williams for criminal contempt. Jegede, called to the bar in 1972, was found by the judge to have attacked and lower the reputation of another Lagos State Judge, Okunnu J. in an affidavit.
At the end of the day, the consensus appeared to be that, lawyers no matter the provocation from the bench should refrain from being caught in a situation where they could properly be tried for contempt by the courts.

TUESDAY 6TH OCTOBER 2009
Was in court - the Ikeja High Court for a matter, which did not go on. Nonetheless had an interesting time in the very court. Heard from the presiding judge, the story of the Hyena and the Hunter’s Dog. See, please the Learned Squib page for elaboration. http://www.learnedsquib.blogspot.com

Heard about the sudden death of, Mr. Oluwatobi Francis Morighanfen, a member of the sheriffs corps of the Lagos State Judiciary.
Popularly called Tobi, Morighafen, 37, a beefy six-footer plus, was reportedly found stone dead in a gutter somewhere in Ikorodu Town in the early morning hours of 1st October 2009.
According to geckos, though dead, Tobi had no visible, external injury on his body, but clutched some naira notes in his palm (about N1,800.00) and his shirt (uniform) and phone were found in his bag but his trousers was in some places be-splattered with mud.

There is a general suspicion among Lagos Judiciary Staff, particularly, his fellow sheriffs, that his death was violent and un-natural and came from now unknown person(s) opined a source.
“Some of our colleagues received a call in the morning of 1st October 2009 from Tobi’s wife that her husband did not sleep at home on September 30 which was very unusual of him.

A search party was raised to find him and at about 10.00am, we found his body in the morgue at Ikorodu. The police at Owutu explained to us that they were alerted by some members of the public to the presence of a corpse and it turned out to be him.
Our shock was that all through 30th September 2009, Tobi was okay. He was normally a healthy lively fellow who loved to eat amala with some of our colleagues.

He was still in the premises till about 6.00pm, after having some drinks but some people said he had N150,000.00 with him - for the performance of an imminent execution.
Then we were told that one of the ladies who work in the courts here saw him around 10.00pm on his way to his house, but that he was having some hot argument with some policemen who arrested the “okada” man who was ferrying him to his destination.

According to the lady, she pleaded with the late Tobi to go on his way but he insisted on staying back with the Okada man whom he believed was just being cheated by the police-men.

At a point time, so claimed the lady, one of the policemen came to tell Tobi that the fact of his being a judiciary staff meant nothing to them and that it was only in the courts that Tobi could exercise any power.”
The late Morghanfen, is survived by his wife and three children. Who killed the Sheriff? And what exactly are Tobi’s employers doing about the tragic development?

WEDNESDAY 7TH OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High court. Heard the depressing news that within a fortnight, the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) would embark on another round of industrial action.
JUSUN’s complaint is the government’s failure to honour her agreement with the union on the new salary structure for judiciary workers all over the country.
A credible source told the Squib that as per the agreement, the lowest paid judiciary staff, on Grade 1, will earn a N27,000.00 monthly salary as opposed to (in Lagos State) the present N7,000 he receives.
So far according to our source, only two states of the 31 state federation has honoured the agreement. It would be recalled that last time the JUSUN went on strike, courts were shut down for 42 days from December 1 2008 to Jan 12 2009.
It was a strike that made many lawyers, particularly advocates go hungry as they were rustificated from practicing their trade by the closure of the courts.
Except something positive and urgent is done about JUSUN’s notice of strike, history will repeat itself. Why, I ask is it so difficult to take care of so called junior workers? Why?

THURSDAY 1ST OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a case that went on. I’ve been seeing something to cheer about, since Monday. The NBA Ikeja has finally started in earnest to replace its ‘ile-eye' (bird’s nest) of a secretariat with a bigger and more befitting structure.
Saw all manners of work men toiling on the site. Some of these workers in the course of their work, unearthed some dirty ugly secrets long buried below the earth. Could you guess what these secrets were? The name starts with a C and ends with an N’. There is ‘D’ in the middle. Do you think it is Condemn? Ha!ha!ha!

FRIDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. While geckoing about, forgot my car key in a particular place. Retrieved it safely, sha after some moments of anxiety, then continued geckoing! That, after rushing my court-room wig and gown business.
Oh my God, Justice Alogba’s court again! I mean the entrance to that court is such a mess and an eye-sore. Even worse - a cesspit of dangerous diseases like dysentery, diarrhea, typhoid etc. Burst sewage floods the place with the unmentionable. Imagine the stink!
Hope our brand new Chief Judge is reading this.

SATURDAY 9TH OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Police College. This morning. With four other colleagues for our Tiger Bar week-end sports programme. Pray, where are the other Tigers. Mates you are missing some great fun. Pls come and 'shake body.' You’ve got nothing to lose, except some fat!

4TH WEEK SEPT/1ST WEEK OCT(28TH SEPT-3RD OCT) 09

2009-10-31T23:22:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER 2009
Hurray! The Squib is out. After so many weeks of vacation. The cover story? THE TRUE AND FULL CAUSE OF GANI FAWEHINMI’S DEATH.
The Lagos Judiciary celebrated the New Legal Year (2009-2010) today. Was at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, for the Christian service. The judges were there, looking noble and pious in their red ceremonial out-fits. Why do judges ceremonials come in red? Well, well. Saw lawyers too, plenty sef in the holy building, but not looking quite as pious as the judges. Well may be because the learned friends were wearing their eternal, if not fraternal-black gowns. Even the gold overlays on the silk-lawyers’ gown could not help cast any holy halo on them. They only looked like fat cats.
After the service (sermon delivered by Bishop Ademowo) there were photograph sessions in front of the church House. Hearty greetings, here and there. Amongst judges, magistrates and counsel alike.
Saw Geckos mingle with men and women. And, horror, saw some magistrates even judges deigning it fit to take photographs with the first Gecko, Yours truly!
Later the party moved to the High Court, Igbosere. For the march past and light entertainment. Only that the entertainment was not all that light. The food spread was impressive, adequate for the rather large crowd of ‘celebrants’ that turned up.
There were three ‘tents’. The best decorated and comfiest with our conditioners pressed to work was right in the middle. It was for the first class and Senior Advocates. Ahem.
At a point a gecko saw in there, a turbaned figure and was told that that was Serikim Musulumi Ikorodu Chief Imam Fatai Adeyinka of the Ikorodu Central Mosque and formerly Chief Judge of Lagos State. Where upon the gecko exclaimed “Ah, Alahu Akbar! So Fatai too is now one of the prophets?"
Earlier on in the day the scene gecko saw another retired judge of Lagos state High Court - James Oduneye J. After the Church Service. The attempt to dye the shaven head of the judge, turned the head into a welter of blue-black lines and shapes.
The second tent was for the second class citizen magistrates, while the third tent was for the ordinary un-silky lawyers 3rd class citizens. As for the judiciary workers, there was no tent for them. They just queued up along a window, from where “manna” dropped down.
Must not forget to mention that the entertainment included light music from a Robot. Musician: the turntable of a Disco-Jockery. Oh, my! Forgot to mention about the march past.
Was told it was a very brief affair may be less than fifteen minutes.

TUESDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER 2009
Went to the Events Centre CBD Ikeja to attend a training workshop on “Crime Scene Management”. Just for forty minutes - poor acoustics drove restless me away.

WEDNESDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER 2009
Came to the Lagos High Court Tafawa Balewa Square. My matter could not go on. Spent time there geckoing about the court.

THURSDAY 1ST OCTOBER 2009
Public Holiday. Nigerians love few other things than a public holiday. Every-time holiday! Please don’t mind me jare - just the rantings of an over-worked, over-heated-gecko, who was still in his den up to 11.00pm. On Independence Day!

FRIDAY 2ND OCTOBER 2009
Came down to Lagos high Court. For a case. Judge absent. On the way for I.B.A conference. Reportedly. Later left for the Maximum Security Prison to see some of those who put bread on my table.
On the way back, at the Airport fell into the hands of Towing Vehicle Family of Vultures, about seven in number. The Squib-mobile had minor hiccups, rectifiable within minutes, by simply opening the bonnet and allowing greater sweep of wind to the engine. The vehicle was safety parked on a shoulder, causing no obstruction. But the vultures would not listen to any ‘sense’ outside ‘settlement’.
"Your offence is #25,000.00! We have to tow away this vehicle. Speak our language or the vehicle will be towed away! “We are the task force!" All this, despite the fact the SM had come out of her coma. At the end of the day #2,000.00 was extorted from me - and that for not acting the uppity “alakowe”. The vultures (young male adults 21-36 years of age thereabouts) came in their raiding van, a post world-war contraption with a FAAN sticker, with plate number CA 578 FST. Time 3.20p.m.

SATURDAY 3RD OCTOBER 2009
Was at the Police College, Ikeja. For Tigers’ Sportif. But was even too unwell to come down from the car to exercise the ailing body. Learnt later that one other Tiger had arrived and left before I came. Tiger Farounbi Olayinka.

4TH WEEK JULY (27TH-1ST AUGUST 2009)

2009-10-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 27TH JULY 2009
The Squib’s not on the stands. The ‘fiery one’ on holiday too!
Today was her publisher’s birth-day. A birth-day forgotten in the furnace of preparation for battle in the case of C.J Lagos vs Adesina Ogunlana coming up the very next day in Abuja.
The said birthday was forgotten, until when the Generalissimo of the campaign, Daddy 3, Chief G.O.K Ajayi S.A.N in the middle of battle plans and preparation at about 3.42 am in the morning of 27th July 2009 suddenly asked his troops of lawyers and secretary “will you gentlemen care for (a bottle of) red-wine?”
Much later in the day, got the suit FHC/L/CS/792lag Adesina Ogunlana vs Ibitola Sotuminu & Ors filed at the Federal High Court, Lagos (see Bar & Bench NEWS 2).

TUESDAY 28TH JULY 2009
Was at the Court of Appeal Abuja. For my case C.J. Lagos vs Adesina Ogunlana esq before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee. The matter was adjourned at Respondent’s Counsel (Chief G.O.K Ajayi S.A.N) request. Counsel had filed on behalf of Ogunlana an application for leave to apply for an order of prohibition against the LPDC.
Some fireworks though, before the adjournment was granted. It started when the prosecutor in the matter, Dele Oye esq ‘reported’ the respondent to the LPDC that in the interval of the matter, Respondent had caused certain negative things to be published about him calling him in the said publication therein a persecutor. Thereafter the following conversation took place:
Chief Awomolo S.A.N: (addressing Dele Oye) Where is the publication? What you should have done is to bring it here and show us. (Turning to Ogunlana) Em, Mr. Ogunlana, you see how well meaning your publication may be, you must avoid being personal or sentimental in what you write. There is no need to be personal about things, Mr. Oye is only doing a job on appointment. And you know he is yet to reach his peak. Anything can be used against him in the future.”
Ogunlana: My Lords, can I possibly address this honourable committee?
Committee: Yes, you can.
Ogunlana: Mr. Dele Oye here is complaining about me, that I wrote some things against him. But what I want to say is this, the person who wrote the petition against me, saying I publish defamatory articles against judges of Lagos State stated the years 2001 and 2002 for the articles But Mr. Prosecutor here is charging me for articles written in 2004 even up till 2007!
Chief Awomolo S.A.N: Mr. Ogunlana please take it easy. Afterall you have not crossed paths with Mr. Dele Oye. Or have your paths crossed?
Ogunlana: Yes our paths have crossed.
Chief Awomolo SAN: It’s alright. We won’t go into that now.
Ogunlana: I got upset because I showed the complaint to him (Dele Oye esq) but he said it was typographical error!
Committee: Yes, but that’s the issue you should bring up before this committee.
Dele Oye: We saw that we made a mistake, which we have now corrected but when we wanted to serve Mr. Ogunlana now with the new complaint, he refused to accept it.
Committee: He wouldn’t accept it?
Ogunlana: I wouldn’t! I am represented by counsel!
Chief Awomolo SAN: You wouldn’t want to waive your right and collect it?
Ogunlana: Sir I’ll like to continue to hide behind the shadow of the presence of my counsel. I need the advice of my lawyer whether to accept this new complaint or not and he is not here.
Chairman: Yes, you are right. Since he has a lawyer, let them serve his lawyer. Mr. Ogunlana we don’t want you to see any one as being against you. We all here are on an assignment, including Mr. Dele Oye. You present your own case against theirs.
Please convey our message to Chief Ajayi about this case he has filed at the Federal High Court. Chief Ajayi is a lawyer we have a lot of regard for just as we have for every other counsel. May be he has not adverted his mind to the position of the Supreme Court that nobody can stop us here to look into the issue of professional misconduct. We have series of rulings on that by the Supreme Court and the High Courts themselves have been careful not to go against the position of the Supreme Court.
However we will grant the adjournment that he has requested for, till the next session. Please convey our message to him.
Mr. Dele Oye: We will not ask for cost
Chairman: Even if you ask for cost I am sure Mr. Ogunlana here will not give you a kobo or will you, Mr. Ogunlana?
Ogunlana: Sir, Mr. Oye said he came back from London only yesterday. Such a man will not need a kobo!
It must be on record that before the proceedings went under way, Mr. Rafiu Lawal-Rabana S.A.N one of the committee members, announced in open court that he was opting out of the committee in respect of the C.J Lagos vs Adesina Ogunlana matter. According to Mr. Lawal-Rabana his decision was informed by the fact that during his time as General Secretary, of the Nigerian Bar Association (2006-2008) he had had cause, in his official capacity to have some dealings with the Respondent and would not want to give any impression of having any bias against the respondent on account of that.

WEDNESDAY 29TH JULY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For continuation of the trial of a case. The rest of the day, spent on some personal runs.

THURSDAY 30TH JULY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Noticed that human-waste fluid continued to seep out from a poorly re-constructed sewage tank at the entrance of Justice Kazeem Alogba’s court. Death for sale, here?

FRIDAY 31ST JULY 2009
Was at the court of Appeal Lagos, this morning specifically at the registry to check up on the progress of a lodged appeal. In the late afternoon, with other members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the NBA conference 2009 (holding in Lagos) held a meeting with the Central Planning Committee (CPC) of the conference, at the National Secretariat of the NBA.
The LOC via her sub committees chairman on Security, Accommodation and Transportation reported extensively on these important headings to CPC. Other important issues like the feeding (free lunches) of the conferees also discussed critically. One important heading (publicity) was not discussed at all, as the National Executive Committee are said to be in charge of that. From all indications, preparations are on top gear to have a successful bar conference in Lagos come 17th -21st August 2009, more so as the Lagos State Government is partnering seriously with the NBA on the project.

SATURDAY 1ST AUGUST 2009
Only one Tiger, this writer, turned up for the Sportif programme of the Ikeja Bar at the Police College grounds Ikeja. But it was worth the while, I tell you.

1ST WEEK JULY 2009 (6TH-11TH)

2009-09-09T16:34:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 6TH JULY 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover story – SEX AND THE BENCH. Promised too be a sell-out. The NBA Ikeja held her monthly meeting today. Dave Ajetomobi Esq, presided. As usual, the meeting was well attended by members and was quite lively.

TUESDAY 7TH JULY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a matter. My witness (defence) proved quite intelligent, almost to the point of entertainment during cross-examination. Let me give you a teaser from the trial.
Prosecutor: Are you not aware that it is against the law to give money to get a position?
Witness: I don’t know about that. But even those who rule us do give us money to vote for them during elections!
Can you beat that?

WEDNESDAY 8TH JULY 2009
Had a trial in the High Court today. The High Court at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Onikan Lagos. Ol’ boy, cross-examination can be so sweet. That is, if you were not the one under cross-examination. The Squib’s no longer on the stands. Sold out since yesterday.

THURSDAY 9TH JULY 2009
Spent 11/2 hours from Isolo to Festac Town for a meeting that lasted only 45 minutes. Spent another 2 hours to reach Ikeja, from Festac. What a terrible and wasteful way of doing business! For fear of worse traffic jams, abandoned the car to “bike” it to another appointment at Opebi.
It was not until 7.00p.m that there was breathing space to have a splendidly cold breakfast.

FRIDAY 10TH JULY 2009
Oh what a rainy, hectic day! The heavens opened early in the morning and continued to pour or and drizzle off and on all through the day. Was in court for a criminal trial from morning (10.00pm) till 5.00p.m. But my case did not effectively start until about 3.45p.m!

SATURDAY 11TH JULY 2009
Was yesterday rainy? Today, no less so. All plans of holding the Tigers week-end games and sports frustrated accordingly.

LAST WEEK JUNE/FIRST WEEK JULY(29TH JUNE-4TH JULY)

2009-08-27T06:06:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY: i've not posted in a bit but i'm doing it all practically at a go, transferring posts/entries from my offline diary, online (starting from june this year!).

MON 29TH JUNE 2009
Squib’s out: Cover story? “Will History Repeat Itself?” Talking about the chances of Taiwo Taiwo Esq. and Gboyega Kolade, the two leading candidates in the NBA Lagos branch elections for the post of chairman.

Came to the Ikeja High Court for another matter.

TUE. 30TH JUNE 2009
Was at the Lagos High Court. For two cases. Both before the same court. One held, the other didn’t. 50-50, you say?

WED 1ST JULY 2009
Was at the Lagos High Court Tafawa Balewa Square. My matter did go on, but not fully.
Rushed down to the Ikeja High Court, for another case. No dice. Before arrival, the court had adjourned the matter.

An “alleged” meeting of the outgoing Chief Judge, Mr. Justice Adetula Alabi and the leadership of the Bar in Lagos State, did not take place eventually. Agenda of the botched meeting – commercialization of the High Court premises.

THUR. 2ND JULY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a matter that eventually didn’t go on. Simply because counsel to defendants was not in court. And because case was listed for ‘mention’ wonderful? Slack Justice, I say. Left court for the Maximum place. Kirikiri.

The Max, had its “visitors lounge” surrounded by a large pool of water. After my business there, got back to the Ikeja High Court. Wasted no less than 45 minutes due to traffic jam caused by a spread of potholes at the Berger curve that would cost less than fifty thousand naira to repair. Nobody, particularly the car dealers and operators who in their dozens do business in the area, appear to care a hoot about the potholes! Nigeria.

FRI. 3RD JULY 2009
Didn’t touch the courts today. Paid a visit to Daddy 3. The old guy, believe me is still working so hard. Dad is never ever going to retire from this job.

LEFT: DADDY 3, G.O.K AJAYI SAN

Spent a good part of the afternoon with another silk. Had a nice time there too. Being a Squib editor is not all pains, I guess.

SAT. 4TH JULY 2009
Was at the Police College with six other colleagues for our Tiger Sportif club Saturday games and exercise. It’s always so good to “shake body” and sweat freely. Got myself a new handset (GSM) today. Please pray, lest I lose it. As usual.

EXERCISES: I'M IN GREEN, BACKING CAMERA.

3RD WEEK JUNE 2009 (15TH -20TH)

2009-08-21T16:33:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MONDAY 15TH JUNE 2009
The Squib’s out. The cover-FAKE LAWYER SURRENDERS TO NBA IKEJA. Had a trial before Dada J. Lots of hustle and bustle in the Ikeja H.C. Typical Monday morning. My car had an un-typical breakdown in-front of Citi-Point chambers, Alausa, Ikeja in the evening.

TUESDAY 16TH JUNE 2009
Car still under. My programmes generally disrupted. Losing the services of one’s “horse” even temporarily can be so stressful. Was at the Ikeja High Court

WEDNESDAY 17TH JUNE 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Noticed that the sewage slab near Justice Alogba’s court entrance was leaking waste water again. Urgent repairs needed. Please.

THURSDAY 18TH JUNE 2009
Had a matter at the Ikeja High Court. Case couldn’t go on. Judge absent. According to the court registrars, the judge was away attending a seminar. However many counsel believed that the judge was away to 'upstairs.' Talking of Justice Olubunmi Oyewole here.
Came down to Lagos High Court for another case. But missed it. Car still under the weather.

FRIDAY 19TH JUNE 2009
Had a trial in Justice Mufutau Olokooba’s court. EFCC case. Later in the afternoon, had car, properly and fully repaired.
Who shall deliver us from all these half-baked trial and error motor-mechanics?

SATURDAY 20TH JUNE 2009
Only three Tigers turned up for our week-end sports activities. Well, “Nothing spoil.”

2ND WEEK JUNE 2009 (8TH-13TH)

2009-08-11T15:54:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 8TH JUNE 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover story: - Adegboye Kolade- The Next Leader of the Premier Bar?
Had two EFCC matters in court this morning. No progress made in either. Whose fault? Prosecution’s! They were simply not ready – no witness to present to the honourable court. Saw some women in “Aso ebi” outfit near Justice Oyewole’s court. No need to tell the they (the women) were “the Georgitas” – female supporters of Olabode George, a PDP chieftain standing trial before Oyewole J for fraud. NBA Lagos branch held her monthly meeting today. At the foyer. Heard that the “masu-mato” Electoral Rules of the Obi Okwusogu Election Committee largely scaled through.

TUESDAY 9TH JUNE 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court today. For a ruling. When would the contractors handling the repairs of court rooms in the new complex finish their work? At least two of the court rooms on the ground floor their looked more like the workshop of “industrial carpenters” more than anything else these past two years.

WEDNESDAY 10TH JUNE 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For an EFCC matter. It couldn’t go on. Due to prosecution’s unpreparedness. On my way to the bar centre (NBA Ikeja Secretariat) noticed that the “Evil Stream” at the entrance of Justice Kazeem Alogba had sprung up again.

THURSDAY 11TH JUNE 2009
Jade Gardens – “Chinese Restaurant” at the G.R.A Ikeja. Was there this morning, till say 12.00p.m. To attend this year’s Attorney-General’s Forum. The topic? Awaiting trial process. Quite an interesting meeting. Lots of the problems easily identified. A lot of solutions preferred. But when will the real action begin?
Heard late in the evening of the death of Mrs. Kemi Sanusi, the Senior Registrar in Justice Suyi Olateru-Olagbegi’s (of Lagos High Court). She was aged 46 years. What a level headed, polite and respectful woman. Heard she died of malaria typhoid, on Tuesday week, leaving behind three children. Her husband had earlier passed about a decade ago.
We here in the Squib really miss this nice lady. May her soul rest in peace.

FRIDAY 12TH JUNE 2009
Public holiday, June 12. The day the alleged fairest and freest presidential election ever was held in Nigeria. In 1993. Throwing up the late M.K.O Abiola as the winner of the election. Annulled in June 12 1993, unleashing a series of event that eventually led to the birth of the present 4th Republic.
With four other Tigers, left Lagos for Ipesi, Ondo state. For the burial of late Pa Bayode Oniyire, the father of Niyi Oniyire, an Ikeja Tiger. Got there at about 9.00pm when the wake-keeping for Pa Oniyire was rounding up. Bunkered down, after a nice dinner of amala and roasted goat-meat and soup, which cuisine, (particularly the meat) brought the biblical admonition
“obedience is better than sacrifice”
“And to hearken better than the fat of rams” sharply into my mind

SATURDAY 13TH JUNE 2009
Woke up early in the morning to notice that Ipesi is a small, very small, peaceful town in full rural setting. Through the windows of our room saw lush foliage, fauna, and mountains. Saw an Agbe bird and myriad of ijalo” ants spread on plants. Also saw “kuluso” holes on the grounds of the house reminding me of our child hood song. Kuluso Kuluso Abiyamo feyin so
Now fresh and clean the air smelt! How serene and peaceful the atmosphere! Saw also some free-ranging chickens, the very types nutritionists advise as best for table and suddenly wished for a feast of such a healthy delicacy.
Encouraged with such salubrious sights, walked with the leader of the pack of Tigers, a.k.a “the in-coming”, inside the portion of Ipesi bush near by and donated certain tired contents of our stomachs to mother earth. Oh, the lost freedom and pleasure of open air toilet!
After break-fasting on blocks of yam and tasty stew, we left for the burial service of Pa Oniyire. Before and after the service, the undertakers entertained the worshippers with their “casket-control” skills, dancing with the coffin. And it seemed the more the crisp naira notes that sailed in their direction, the mere dexterous, they became!
Took our leave at 11.00a.m but not before an insistent Mrs. Olumide Oniyire piled us with sundry spirits trapped in cans.
About four hours later, we landed in Ora-Igbomina, the city of Yinka Farounbi and the home of perpetual pounded yam. We came there to join in the burial ceremony of the family head of Yinka Farounbi Pa Samson Oyedepo Farounbi a.k.a “This palm-wine is watery” who died at the tender age of 101 years. We met some other Tigers in the town and as Tigers were immediately offered some flesh to devour. Pounded yam with fitting accompaniment followed shortly. With sundry spirits and less energetic and sweeter drinks, prompting a flow of theories, counter-theories and hipothesses.
Later in the evening, a short drive in the Tiger-Bus took us all to the home of a prominent. Oran, a former surveyor-general of Lagos State. There the theories continued to flow. I remembered at least one of them. It came from a Tiger known simply as “Obaaaaat!” who sagely declared.
“No man no matter the situation should allow his background to put his back on the ground”.
While this profound statement was still being appreciated one Tiger, a very good friend of Honourable Justice Ade Alabi, quickly asked “In that case, how would women get pregnant?”
Before turning to bed, we fell on a hearty dinner. Are you asking me what it was? Pounded yam, of course.

1ST WEEK JUNE 2009(1ST-6TH)

2009-08-10T21:20:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 1ST JUNE 2009
The Squib’s out but very late. Say 2.30pm. Cover Story:- C.J LAGOS VS ADESINA OGUNLANA: HOW THE ETERNAL TRIAL FAILS TO START AGAIN.
The monthly meeting of the Tiger Bar held today it was also the Annual General meeting (AGM) of the branch.
No less than three hundred and thirty three people turned up for the meeting and that is saying something.

TUESDAY 2ND JUNE 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a matter. Didn’t go on. Courtesy of judge’s directive. Hmmmmm. Met a ‘lawyer’, may be twelve or thirteen years old, a secondary school kid doing “chambers attachment”. The young lady wanted to be a top lawyer in future! Her name is Gboremi. I won’t tell the surname.

WEDNESDAY 3RD JUNE 2009
Came to the Ikeja High Court in the afternoon. Chambers concluded, for the first time since 2004 a matter at the pre-trial stage. The pre-trial judge was Oyefesobi J. little wonder!

THURDAY 4TH JUNE 2009
Spent only a few time in the Ikeja High Court premises today. Was I geckoing about in some other places?

FRIDAY 5TH JUNE 2009
Spent a few hours in the office this morning. Before moving on to the Maximum security Prison Kirikiri. To see one or two clients and to leave a letter for the Deputy Comptroller of the institution. Today, the remains of veteran Lagos land disputes lawyer, Chief Ishola Oyewo, was buried at Abeokuta Ogun State. Some members and leaders of the Ikeja branch attended the burial.

SATURDAY 6TH JUNE 2009
Only five Tigers turned up for the week-end sports programme of the Ikeja bar. Nonetheless all those who came had a wonderful time on the pitch.

4TH WEEK MAY 2009 (25TH-29TH)

2009-08-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

MONDAY 25TH MAY 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover story-African Science arrests Criminal Trial. Spent practically all day with Daddy 3 planning for my trial tomorrow before the Disciplinary Committee of the Body of Benchers,

TUESDAY 26TH MAY 2009
Arrived Abuja this morning from Lagos. Proceeded to the Court of Appeal headquarters for the case Chief Judge of Lagos State vs Adesina Ogunlana. After the matter, had the opportunity of walking through some parts of the very big building. Noticed that the security guards manning the place were quite nice and helpful fellows.

WEDNESDAY 27TH MAY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Participated in the-marathon session of the Tiger Bar Executive Committee meeting. From there moved to the –Lagoon Restaurant, Victoria Island venue of the Law Week Dinner of the NBA Lagos.
Once arrived, settled myself in front of the Giant Screen there, to enjoy the Barcelonia F.C UEFA Cup final match against the totally out-classed Manchester United. ‘Barca’ won the match by 2-0

THURSDAY 28TH MAY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court in the afternoon. Witnessed a prolonged row between two leaders of the Tiger Bar in their secretariat. Even now, the vitriols from both sides are still burning my ears. Haba! Igbo kwenu! Or do we say, Eyimba, Enyi!

FRIDAY 29TH MAY 2009
Today is Democracy day, public holiday. Ten years of democracy, what have we achieved today?

3RD WEEK MAY(18TH-23RD)

2009-05-30T05:38:00.000-07:00

MON. 18TH MAY '09
The Squib, not out. Came to the Ikeja High Court.
Had a case at the Magistrate Court.
At about 1:p.m, in a "shift system" Magistrate Court.

TUE. 19TH MAY '09
The Squib's out. Cover Story: Will the NBA Break Up?http://www.squibcoverstory.blogspot.com
Arrived the Ikeja High Court for a meeting of the LOC.

WED. 20TH MAY '09
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For an
EFCC case. God bless hard working judges. Judges like,... I won't tell you her name. Judges who really earn their (fat) pay.
Was in court till almost 2:30 p.m. Judge was taking notes in long hand. And at the end of it all, still ordered for continuation of trial for the next day. Some other Judges that we know, would, without blinking an eye lid, adjourn the matter to 25th December 2009.
Earlier in the day dashed down to LASUTH. To see the doctor. Health, is wealth.

THUR. 21ST MAY '09
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For two cases. Noticed two things in the court.
(1) The magistrate court buildings in the second compound wee getting a fresh coat of paint.
(2) Lots if greenish white water streaming far and wide on the corridor of Hon. Justice Obadina's court, courtesy of 'discharges' from air conditioning engines in the court.
This "ain't" nice. Something should be done to change the situation.

FRI. 22ND MAY '09
Was at the Ikeja High Court.
My case could'nt go on. Prosecution not yet ready.

SAT. 23RD MAY '09
Only five tigers turned up for the weekend sports programme of the Tiger Bar. Nonetheless, the five who turned up enjoyed themselves thoroughly, jogging and playing soccer.
How did I know?
I was there.

2ND WEEK MAY (11TH-16TH)

2009-05-30T05:34:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 11TH MAY 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover: - Terrible: Lawyer Dupes Octogenarian?http://www.squibcoverstory.blogspot.com Came to the Lagos High Court for a so-called Town Hall meeting of Judiciary Stake-holders. Billed to start by 9:00a.m, the programme was yet to start even at 10:45a.m. Left in disgust.

TUESDAY 12TH MAY 2009
At about 1.00p.m, left Lagos for Sokoto with about eight other Tigers, for the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the NBA. Our ‘horse’ was the branch bus. Some six and a half hours later, settled for the night at Mokwa, Niger State.

WEDNESDAY 13TH MAY 2009
The Excursion to Sokoto continued. Got occasional sights of exotic looking donkeys and camels, as well as ploughing oxen as we drove on. Of course it was banters moderated with dining, sleeping and wining all the way. But also some sad sights too - the hasty burial of an accident victim, the pathetic case of a donkey run over by a hit and run driver and the meritable(?) sights of alamajeris ( groups of young boys begging for food).
After ten hours on the road, we reached Sokoto eventually at about 5.00p.m. Unfortunately it was a very dry reception we got from the Local Organising Committee. Nobody was on hand to receive the ‘arrivees.’ The welcome cocktail and later party, all turned a sham.
Being wise Tigers, we sought the salvation of our bellies in one amala joint at the Mammy Market, Sokoto.
Trust somebody to know somebody who knows somebody else, through another somebody to know such a den, even at late hours of the day in a strange town.

THURSDAY 14TH MAY 2009
The day breaks so early in Sokoto. As early as 5.50a.m. Did some road work, causing stares from some passers-by.
The L.O.C provided quality but insufficient breakfast. The NEC meeting started to time. 9.00a.m.
About 21/2 hours later, the Governor of the State, Alhaji Wammako came in.
Made purse, and left the lawyers to themselves. In the afternoon, attended the NEC meeting. Trooped to the palace of the Sultan of Sokoto but the crowd was too much for the table of the Sultan who had been wrongly informed that only about a hundred lawyers would be visiting. Saw Alhaji Shehu Sagari, former president of Nigeria at the palace. He is a noble man, high chief of the Sultanate. How quiet, peaceful and dignified the old man looked. Even at 85, he sure looked graceful.
Though no less than two thirds of the crowd of lawyers had to get their lunch some where else, I got myself a seat in the dining hall of the Sultan’s palace. But the Sultan and the good old President Shagari
never knew a gecko was at table with them. The NEC meeting resumed at about 4.30p.m in the evening and lasted till about 7.30p.m. From there it was socials, and for some people, it was a T.D.B affair.

FRIDAY 15TH MAY 2009
Departed Sokoto at about 11.00a.m, for home. Earlier in the morning, in the face of officious and unreasonable behaviour of hotel staff, Tigers employed just one or two revolutionary tactics to retrieve a well deserved breakfast.
After about ten hours on the road the Tigers and their babies of the Ikorodu Bar landed in Abuja around 8.30.pm. While in Zaria some “disgruntled” Tigers insisted on having lunch at an eatery called “Shagalinku”. The place turned out to be nothing special but the Shagalinkuans – Adegbamigbe Omole and Isa Muhammed Buhari had their way.
Later on in the journey both were dragged to the community court of ‘Justice’ Adekunle Ojo, who after listening to arguments from the prosecutor, Yinka Farounbi, convicted the Shagalinkuans. But while Omole got a suspended sentence, Isa Buhari bore the full brunt of the law as he was summarily removed from his post as the Branch Secretary and demoted to the post of the Branch Bus Conductor. Isa gallantly and immediately reported at his duty post. However in an uncommon display of humaneness, Justice Ojo reprieved the obviously penitent Isa, about two hours later.

SATURDAY 16TH MAY 2009
We left Abuja 6.30a.m. Arrived Lagos 5.30p.m. Our ‘run away’ treasurer, the Glo-girl, Gloria Nweze had teamed up with us again, very early in Abuja. The journey to Sokoto ended the way it started - abundance of jokes, arguments, lots of snoozing etc.
Somewhere in Ekiti State, Aramoko precisely, the power to prophesy suddenly fell on the duo of Dave Ajetomobi, Ikeja branch chairman and Adesina Ogunlana, the Welfare Secretary. To the effect that, well, there is a restraining order from above against disclosing what was revealed to the men. But their power to prophesy suddenly disappeared in the face of hot, fine pounded yam and tasty vegetable soup and goat meat in the next town of Erio-Ekiti.

1ST WEEK MAY(4TH-9TH)

2009-05-30T05:32:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 4TH MAY 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover Story-Tigers Terrific Week. Was at the Ikeja High Court for a case. The case went on, even when power outage occurred.
Note, once there is power outage, some judges absolutely refuse to sit.

TUESDAY 5TH MAY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Witnessed an “exciting” cross-examination in an EFCC case which is now better known among some Law School students who witnessed the Trial as the Community Tension Case.
When a talkative story teller of a witness meets a foxy cross-examiner, you can only get a thriller!

WEDNESDAY 6TH MAY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Had three cases there, but none went on. In one of the cases the court was ready, the prosecutor’s witnesses were ready but the prosecutor himself was not ready. In another the court was ready but both the prosecutor and the witness were not ready. In the last case, the court was ready, parties were ready yet the matter did not go on. Why? When the matter was called counsel to the defendants and defendant’s witnesses were planning strategies outside the court room.!

THURSDAY 7TH MAY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Of my three cases, only one went on-the most important. People of Lagos State vs Sikiru Aina.
An important case, I tell you. Bail of the defendant, previously revoked, restored.

FRIDAY 8TH OF MAY 2009
Spent the better part of the morning and afternoon at Magistrate court 3, Ikeja. With four other Tiger Bar leaders-Ajetomobi(chairman) Buhari (Secretary) Nweze (Treasurer) and Adegbite (Assistant Secretary) attended the moot and mock trial organised by the Law School Students attached to the court.
The chief host(ess) was the presiding magistrate Mrs. J.O.E Akhanamoya. After the M&M, a few talks were given by NBA Ikeja leaders on (a) Honour, Integrity and Diligence at the Bar (b) Cross-Examination. Nice Lunch followed and better believe this, a dance. I with my “korokoro” eyes, saw a magistrate “shake body”.
Good fun, good education, good interaction for the students. The students received gifts from the magistrate, who they in turn surprised by their own gifts. They gave gifts also to the Bar leaders.
Great afternoon, I tell you.

SATURDAY 9TH OF MAY 2009
Water melon and Pineapple. That’s what Tigers Sportif club members had, after their hectic exercises and soccer game this morning. Terrible Terry (the 2nd Vice-chairman) was the most soaked-up of the Tigers. Must have run more than 5 kilometers in a secret location on the Police College grounds. Ogunlana (welfare Secretary) came on the pitch in shorts probably taken off an Ibadan masquerade or wizard.
Again J.B (Gloria Nweze, the treasurer) turned the mother of the Squad, feeding them water-melon, pineapples and cakes after the pitch ‘hassles’.
Dear Tigers and Tigresses, when will you join us? Come, come catch fun. Yo.

4TH WEEK APRIL-1ST WEEK MAY(27TH-1ST MAY)

2009-05-30T05:27:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MONDAY 27TH APRIL 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover – Where is Joe Igunbor Esq? In the morning was at the Lagos High Court, Tafawa Balewa Square. For two matters. Moved to the Lagos High Court, Igbosere for a brief visit. Then on to Gecko base – Ikeja High Court. Tigers Law Week Programme commenced today. With a press conference.

TUESDAY 28TH APRIL 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Early in the morning, Tigers (NBA Ikeja members) had taken off to the Ikoyi Prisons for a Humanitarian Visit). In line with tradition, the Chief Judge of the State, Adetula Alabi, was also on the visit. At the end of the exercise, sixteen prisoners were set free by his Lordship.

WEDNESDAY 29TH APRIL 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. My matters (two) could not go on. Judges absent. Quite a few judges are absent from normal duty this week – away on one training course or the other.
Joined other Tigers at the Alade Market, Ikeja for the Annual Law Clinic, a one-day pro-people and free legal counseling services of the Ikeja bar. However not many of the traders, took advantage of the free offer.
In the evening, the Tigers had a wonderful time at the Martinos, CBD Alausa Ikeja, during their 3 hour Variety Night. Super entertainment, I tell you.

THURSDAY 30TH APRIL 2009
The Law Week Programme of the Tigers’ continued. Today, it was a lecture, delivered at the Martinos by Professor Yemi Osinbajo SAN, former A.G Lagos State. The lecturer spoke on The Imperative of Electoral Reforms In Nigeria. Good lecture but only about 120 Tigers turned up.

FRIDAY 1ST OF MAY 2009
Labour Day. But ‘Tigers’ Week continued. In the afternoon, Tigers Sportif Football Club met the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Youth Team. The TSFC got a 3-0 drubbing.
Tigers later left for dinner at the Sheraton, Ikeja. And, had a wonderful time with the Governor of the State, Babatunde Raji Fashola S.A.N.

4TH WEEK APRIL 09 (20TH - 25TH)

2009-05-16T04:02:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MONDAY 20TH APRIL 2009
The Squib’s out. The cover story:- JIBOLA ARIBISALA SAN: THE IROKO TREE LIZARD SILK? Attended to one case before a magistrate court. For some time now, three or even four magistrates sit “turn by turn” in that court. Thus we now have
“Early morning court
Late morning court
Afternoon court
Late afternoon court”.
God have mercy!

TUESDAY 21ST APRIL 2009
Was at the Ikeja High court for a case. Matter could not go on due to power failure. The generator ‘on duty’ allegedly caught fire. Saw so many law school students on court attachment programme. Many of them looked quite young. Or could it be that I am the aging one?

WEDNESDAY 22ND APRIL 2009
Spent some time at the Ikeja High Court before moving to Chief Gani Fawehinmi Chambers to mark Gani 71st Birthday at his Anthony Village Chambers, Lagos.
About a hundred and fifty people turned up for the event, including Muhammed Lawal Uwais, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olabode Rhodes-Vivour of the Court of Appeal, Ambassador Olusola, Dr. Fredrick Fasheun (OPC), Gani Adams (OPC), Adekunle Ojo 2nd Vice-President Nigerian Bar Association etc.
Two books on Gani were “presented” to the public. Some good money realised, shouldn’t be less than four million naira.

THURSDAY 23RD APRIL 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For two cases only one went on.

FRIDAY 24TH APRIL 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. In the morning. Saw a judge ‘lecturing’ his rather large crowd of “interns”. After some time drove down to the Lagos High Court Igbosere and TBS courts. By the way why do security personnel in the Igbosere court greet on so expansively? Surely not out of love.

SATURDAY 25TH APRIL 2009
Even though many leaders of the NBA Ikeja branch were not in town, the Tiger Bar weekend sports programme still held. At the police college, grounds as usual.
In preparation for next week’s soccer ‘duel’ with the Archbishop Vinning Memorial Cathedral Church Youths Clubs, the Tigers’ Sportif trained at some soccer skills-shooting, passing, penalty kicks etc.
The refreshment at the end of the training was simple but delicious:- water melon, dough-nuts and Glucose D powder etc.
Won’t you rather be a Tiger? An active one for that matter.

3RD WEEK APRIL 09 (13TH - 18TH)

2009-05-16T03:58:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MONDAY 13TH APRIL 2009
Easter. Public holiday. The Lord is risen. But many chicken died for the celebration, today. No Squib
for this week.

TUESDAY 14TH APRIL 2009
In the morning, went to see Daddy. Daddy 3. Still a dashing Ol’boy. From there got to the Lagos High Court. the place looked ‘dry’, even the canteen was not opened for business. Left for Ikeja High Court, which did not look so dry like the LHC.

WEDNESDAY 15TH APRIL 2009
Got to the always crowded Tapa Magistrate Court, Lagos Island where the temples of Justice are nothing more than “containers”.
From Tapa, “landed” on the Medium Security Prison KiriKiri and her “Maximum” sibling. To see some clients.
At the Maximum Security Prison, while waiting to be cleared, witnessed an Alsatian dog which broke loose from the nearby “Naval Town”. The excited dog promptly harassed a group of goats it saw, raising quite a stir in the otherwise calm and quiet neighbourhood.
Couldn’t but help notice that officials of the KiriKiri Prisons were generally polite and easy to get along with. Much nicer than policemen, sure.
Moved from the Prisons to the Ikeja High Court, specifically the Bar Centre:- to attend a meeting of the Tiger Branch Exco.

THURSDAY 16TH APRIL 2009
Came late to the Ikeja High Court. Spent sometime at the Bar Centre.

FRIDAY 17TH APRIL 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. late in the afternoon. Settled down to fratenise with some fellow Tigers, at the Bar Centre.

SATURDAY 18TH APRIL 2009
NBA Ikeja’s weekend sports/fitness programme. Still very much on. About a dozen tigers, including yours truly, assembled at the playing field of the Police College, Ikeja. The hard but interesting five a-side soccer game ended a goal-less draw.
The Tigers Sportif Club’s new secretary, a lady canvassed for the ‘doing’ of other sports like volley ball, basket ball in addition to soccer in our Saturday meets. The suggestion sailed through!

1ST WEEK APRIL 09 (30TH MARCH - 3RD APRIL)

2009-04-06T13:35:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 30TH MARCH 2009
The Squib's out Cover story-Do judges really need police orderlies? A typical Monday morning in the courts-The court premises was jam-packed with lawyers. Litigants, workers and their auto mobiles.
Was at the Bar Centre, late morning. Watched at the bar centre the televised judgement of the Court of Appeal on the Olagunsoye Oyinlola vs Rauf Aregbesola gubernatorial election dispute in Osun state. At the end of the comprehensive judgement, the order was basically that the matter should go down to the lower tribunal for a re-trial. Re-trial after nearly 2 years in court!
Had a family function in Akoka, Lagos today-the Golden wedding Anniversary of my parents-in-law. Imagine a gecko having a wife! Saw no less than seven professors at the event, including Squib professor of law-Ademola Adewale Esq. Some Tiger chiefs, including the chairman-Dave Ajetomobi Esq were also there.
Pastor Yemi Osinbajo S.A.N gave the exhortation. Though the pastor professor, sorry the professor pastor, did not eat, he shuffled some dance steps. Lovely evening, if you ask me. [Click red link to access anniversary pix]: http://www.mumdadadetoro50.blogspot.com

TUESDAY 31ST MARCH 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court today. Had two cases in Ikeja. The third one was at Sabo, Yaba before Senior Magistrate Adelaja (Mrs) for the trial of Mr. Shamisdeen Awere the alleged fake lawyer, while I tried coping with the Ikeja cases, a counsel went for the Yaba matter.
Had the privilege of meeting a judge in his chamber, with two other colleagues in the same matter. The obviously over-worked judge explained why he had to adjourn hearing in our case despite the fact that the witness came outside jurisdiction to testify.

WEDNESDAY 1ST APRIL 2009
Was at the Maximum (the security prisons) kirikiri, Lagos. Mildly interesting sight at the reception. As usual, an official letter writer existed-writing short applications for visiting inmates for a fee. Never for free!

THURSDAY 2ND APRIL 2009
Will somebody remind me- what happened today?

FRIDAY 3RD APRIL 2009
Was at the Governor's office:- The New Round House, behind and besides the House of Assembly at Alausa. Very nice place, piece, I say. Purpose of visit - joint meeting of the NBA 2009 conference planning committee, local organizing committee and the Lagos state government committee on the conference. More meetings on the way!

4TH WEEK MARCH 09 (23RD - 27TH)

2009-04-06T13:30:00.000-07:00

MONDAY 23RD MARCH 2009
The Squib’s out. Cover story -: Popular Lagos Judge Akande J in Motor Accident Tragedy. Heard it was selling like fairly hot cake. Attended the 2nd meeting of the Local organizing Committee of the NBA for the 2009 Conference. The meeting held in the LOC Secretariat, the Bar Centre of the NBA Ikeja branch.

TUESDAY 24TH MARCH 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Witnessed an interesting case. A criminal case. Where the bail of a defendant was cut and the man sent to prison after disagreed with the presiding judge over interpretation of Section 273 (2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law 2007. While the judge said the law did not make the reading of final written addresses in open court mandatory, counsel maintained otherwise. Judge offered that counsel should take his address (No Case Submission) as read and had court’s permission to speak or comment on it. When counsel demurred on that offer, court ruled that counsel’s refusal to take the court’s offer is an abuse of judicial proceeding show that the defence “might have something up their sleeves” and promptly cut the defendant’s bail and adjourned the matter. I was there when the man was taken away to prison with his wives and children weeping bitterly.

WEDNESDAY 25TH MARCH 2009
Was at the Lagos High Court, this morning. For two cases. Got two fellows off the look. Gays had been on trial for sic years for armed robbery. Prosecution all the while had called just one witness who never came back for continuation of examination in chief. Later left for the Ikeja High Court. couldn’t leave the Ikeja Court until 4.00p.m. Saw a good cross-examiner in action, in the Ikeja High Court. fairly unusual state counsel, by name “your time will come”

THURSDAY 26TH MARCH 2009
Was at the Lagos High Court Igbosere. For a case. left the Island in good time as the mater (a murder) case could not go on. Sorted out one or two things in court before leaving for the Mainland.

FRIDAY 27TH MARCH 2009
Was kept very busy, in the chambers this morning overcoming the conspiracy mounted against the chambers, by revolting generating sets and crafting a petition against the interesting honourable judge. Got to the Ikeja High Court, very late in the afternoon. Saw a few Tigers in their Secretariat, the Bar Centre of the Ikeja High Court. After some Tiger talk, we all left the ‘lair. Couldn’t but help notice that the building next door (that of the Lagos State Judicial Service Commission) is very near completion. Really hope the building of our new Secretariat, will follow suit, very soon.

Interesting, I say, interesting. The exit of Honourable Justice Alaba Marsh from the Lagos State Judiciary. The exit was anything but ‘regular’ in that it was not marked with the usual ceremony of a valedictory session which traditionally holds at the Foyer of the Lagos State High Court. Geckos told the Squib that a quiet exit was preferred by the honourable judge who approached the Chief Judge for the “monetization” of his valedictory service, which is to say budget for his valedictory service be remitted to him instead. According to the honourable judge valedictory service or no, when I leave the judiciary people will forget about me. It is when you are in power or positions that people remember you.”

The Chief Judge, we learnt met Alaba J mid-way. Although no valedictory service was held for Alaba J as requested the judge was not allowed to go “quietly, completely into the dark.”
A “fare well ceremony” was instead, organized for him. Only the 12 most Senior Judges from Akande J to Oyekan-Abdullai J were invited to the ceremony. The venue was the Judge’s Conference Room, Ikeja High Court.

3RD WEEK MARCH (16TH -21ST)

2009-04-05T00:30:00.000-07:00

2ND WEEK (16TH - 21ST)

2009-04-05T00:28:00.000-07:00

MON 16TH MARCH 09

2ND WEEK MARCH (9TH -13TH MARCH 09)

2009-04-05T00:25:00.000-07:00

MON 9TH MARCH 09

Public Holiday.

TUE 10TH MARCH 09

WED. 11H MARCH 09

THUR. 12TH MARCH 09

FRI 13TH MARCH 09

SAT 14TH MARCH 09

1ST WEEK MARCH 09 (2ND -6TH)

2009-04-05T00:22:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 2ND MARCH 2009
The Squib is out. Cover story – Why Lagos Governor went C.J out. Attended the NBA Ikeja branch monthly meeting. As usual over two hundred lawyers turned up for the meeting. Lively meeting, no unpleasant or dull moment.
Under AOB, talk of sexual harassment of young female lawyers looking for work, came up. At the end of the day, the Tigers set up a Committee on sexual harassment. Are you a Tiger? Have you been sexually harassed by any other lawyer? Please come to the bar centre and lay your complaints.

TUESDAY 3RD MARCH 2009
Was at Ikeja High Court. The “Evil Stream” at the entrance of Justice Kazeem’s Alogba Court still very much alive and flourishing. I complained about this “cholera inviting and dysentery breeding stream at the Tiger’s meeting yesterday. When will this eye-sore be stopped?

WEDNESDAY 4TH MARCH 2009
Got to the Ikeja High Court, only in the afternoon. Took the Raji Fashola corridor (the “new improved” Muslim-Oshodi-Agege motor way) instead of the usual Ikorodu Road from my Palmgrove office to the Ikeja High Court. The corridor, a great demography victory over the nuisance and impediments that had choked the motor way, was shorter and freer than the Ikorodu Road. Noticed that LASTMA has now honed its predatory instincts-parked vehicles are now being towed away, even when they constitute no obstruction or nuisance and are not even parked on the road.
According to some LASTMA personnel I encountered, the set-back of my office building according to them is the walk-way to the road running along the office. “You can’t park on walk-ways” declared the partially power-drunk LASTMA men.
Query:
1. What is a walk-way?”
2. What are the parks constituted by government for people to park the vehicles?
3. Why is the average Nigerian law enforcement agent aggressive, imperial unreasonable and cocky?

THURSDAY 5TH MARCH 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Had a long, long day in Justice Oyewole’s Court. The premises of that particular court, in the morning could easily be mistaken for the site of a massive “Owanbe” party in progress. This, courtesy of an army of gaily dressed women and some men who had stormed the court to “solidarise” with one Chief Olabode George, a Vice-Chairman of the People Democratic Party (PDP) standing trial for financial corruption before the Oyewole court. A not-so-funny, nauseating sight, they were. Saw staffers evacuating from the Records and Registry of the Ikeja Magistrate Court. The place would soon be pulled down so said the judiciary workers. Hope a phoenix will emerge from the ruins.

4TH WEEK FEB (23RD -27TH FEB 2009)

2009-04-05T00:19:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MONDAY 23RD FEBRUARY 2009
The Squib’s out cover story-Earthquake hits Lagos judiciary: c.j steps aside. Acting chief judge coming. Readers snapped up the squib in no time. For the first in many months, more than 60% of the available copies of the squib were sold on a Monday. Instructive to note the massive and wide spread gleeful approval of the possible imminent exit of Adetula Alabi J. as the Chief Judge of Lagos State.

TUESDAY 24TH FEBRUARY 2009
The squib continued to be a hot cake. Everybody that was anybody in the Lagos judiciary wanted to read our cover story. Several calls came to the Chief Gecko to publish extra-copies of the magazine. In the afternoon interacted with a few Tigers at the Bar centre (secretariat of the NBA Ikeja branch).
Lest I forget that terrible stream near Justice Alogba’s court, still maintaing. Its odors presence. Terrible I tell you that streams faecal matters and liquids would be wending her way on the very ground that the feet of several learned friend had trod and would still tread. This stream is ugly, shameful offensive and dangerous. Let the authorities fix the spoilt sewage system straight.

WEDNESDAY 25TH FEBRUARY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a case. Noticed many people were still excited about squib’s cover story and wanted to get the squib to buy or read. Unfortunately there was none to be seen for sale again. Saw quite a few folks making a pilgrimage to the Bar Centre, Ikeja in the hope of getting a copy there. No dice, though.
Quite irritating the sight of the “dangerous stream” bear Justice Alogba’s court. Can you image human waste products flowing out of broken sewage into the bare ground in a court premises and, and, nobody talking!
Was at a family & probate division court in the morning. Divorce proceedings, I tell you, can be so interesting. Witnessed a case where the petitioner’s counsel was no other than the petitioner himself!
The guy insisted to the court that he wanted his legal representation that way! Most of the other lawyers present however felt the arrangement was rather sticky, to say the least.

THURSDAY 26TH FEBRUARY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. People still looking for copies of the Squib to buy. My well, my client’s case couldn’t go on. In Obadina J’s court. Power failure, the culprit. No electronic recording could be done therefore. The problem had been on since Monday.
Noticed that the ‘Evil Stream’ near Justice Alogba’s court, still very much “active” as usual, lawyers and litigants were stepping through the foul waters. What a shame!

FRIDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2009
Came to the Ikeja High Court. At about 2.00pm. Met an Ado-Ekiti based counsel, who wanted to know whether the Supreme Court website existed in fact? What say you?
Limited my perambulations majorly to the Tiger’s lair the Bar Centre. On my way home saw the ‘Evil Stream’ near Justice Alogba’s court, drying up. Semi-moist pieces of excretes, all about the ground. Phaw!

3RD WEEK FEBRUARY (16TH - 21ST FEB)

2009-04-05T00:16:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 16TH FEBRUARY, 2009
The Squib's out. Cover story on the Chief Ladi Williams SAN and Niyi Adewunmi's noisy face off in Justice Opesanwo's court. Was at the Ikeja High Court. For two matters. One of the matters happened to be at the “Bee-Hive” court of Justice Olubunmi Oyewole. Today, the star case was the Criminal Prosecution of Peoples Democratic Party chieftain Olabode George and some other persons. Quite a lot of interesting and colourfully attired people, ladies in particular, came to give moral support to George. The women came clad in robes and 'geles' of browns and gold. They were so many, about one hundred and fifty in number, perhaps. Of course the court room hall was jam-packed so much that even, some lawyers had to stand up in the court room.

TUESDAY 17TH FEBRUARY 2009
Came to the Ikeja High Court. Later in the afternoon. Saw the ugly stream near the entrance of Honourable Justice Kazeem Alogba’s court, floating particles of excreta. Phew!

WEDNESDAY 18TH FEBRUARY 2009
Was at the Lagos High Court in the morning. Left Lagos for Oshogbo, Osun State with about a dozen other Tigers for the National Executive Council Meeting of the Nigerian Bar Association slated there. Take off time was 3:30p.m. Had a safe and smooth journey to Oshogbo, where our first port of call was ………… can you guess an amala and abula restaurant. Hot, sweet and satisfying stuff I tell you. Quite a nice welcome did the Oshogbo NBA give the attendees (they came all over the country) although many, especially the men were heard complaining that “though there is adequate accommodation, there is no lodging!” Tigers put up in one simple but fine place called, Hotel Bafoooo!

THURSDAY 19TH FEBRUARY 2009
Attended the NEC meeting, the second in the Rotimi Akeredolu Presidency. The morning was devoted to hearing speeches from authority figures in the Osun State Government. The Governor, Oyinlola his Deputy, Obada (Mrs) the Chief Judge, Attorney-General, the Speaker of the House of Assembly and more were present. Seated of course at the High table. Lest I forget, there was break fast for the attendees. Heard the announcement that the Osun State Governement or is it just the Governor donated not a few milions to the coffers of the NBA. The NBA president said that the “Oyin-ni-O” dash was more than the 5 milion naira donation of the Niger State Governor in Minna in November 2008.
In the afternoon session, the NEC remained fiercely and adamantly against the registration of the Senior Advocates of Nigeria, with the Company Affairs Commission. All the smart moves by the Bar President, Rotimi Akeredolu SAN, who had defiantly told NEC members in Minna in November 2008 that the BOSAN would be registered “whether you like it or not” were defeated roundly. In fact the president was heckled and booed at a point. At the end of the day , the NEC unanimously endorsed the formal opposition to the registration of BOSAN written to the Company Affairs Commission, in 2008 by Rafiu Lawal Rabana, then the General Secretary of the NBA. Earlier the NEC approved Lagos State as the hosting of the 2009 Annual General Conference of the NBA. In the evening, there was dinner in the Government lodge. The food arrangement was not too great- the serving points inadequate and people had to jostle to get food.
But the music was nice as well as the speeches. Virtually all the Tigers present, including Mr. Femi Falana, danced. And well too.

FRIDAY 20TH FEBRUARY, 2009
Left Oshogbo for Lagos, with other Tigers in our branded bus. But not without first doing justice to a mid-morning breakfast of “amala and abula”.

SATURDAY 21ST FEBRUARY, 2009
The Tigers' Sportif club met at the Police College for exercises and a game of soccer. Interestingly, at least two of the Tigers who exercised very well in Oshogbo during the NEC meeting (Thursday and Friday) turned up for the sports while of all those who did not exercise themselves in Oshogbo only one showed up. What does that tell us? Exercise is good for the body!

2ND WEEK FEBRUARY 09 (9TH - 14TH)

2009-02-24T23:45:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 9TH FEBRUARY 2009
Squib’s out. Cover story – Court of Appeal Dams Nigerian Lawyers. Was at the Ikeja High court. For cases. Why are prosecution teams generally lazy or and uncoordinated?
Many of the times they are fond of giving excuses to the court instead of proceeding with their case. Noticed something positive about some leaders of the Tiger branch sartorial elegance. “Everybody” is getting dandy these days. But, em, the way, when will we commence the building of our new secretariat?

TUESDAY 10TH FEBRUARY 2009
Got quite late to court (Lagos High Court, Tafawa Balewa Square. Missing phones, traffic jams, the culprit. Later sailed off the court to Ikeja High Court from there to Sheraton Ikeja to meet a beautiful lady. Well, not in camera. World Bank Project Personnel. Zara by name. Must you know any more? Well the purpose of the meeting had something to do with the Squib. Satisfied now?

WEDNESDAY 11TH FEBRUARY 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Spent long hours at the Bar Centre. Having a leader’s meeting. Tigers’ leadership. Took some “wait and get” passport photographs. Some stories to tell about photographs. Later.

THURSDAY 12TH FEBRUARY 2009
Was at the Lagos High Court. Then very briefly at the Appeal Court. Geckoed freely and widely about. Got to the Ministry of Justice later in the afternoon. For one or two ‘gecko unrelated business. Noticed that offices in the Ministry ’ve gown smaller but neater, even canter. Was bold that the already large Chambers of the Honourable Attorney-General has even grown larger. More people, then, less space. Moved on to the Ikeja High Court. Tied up some lawyers business. Much later in the evening, landed at the Ministry of Justice again. This guy must be chasing something. That, if nothing was chasing him.

FRIDAY 13TH FEBRUARY 2009
Spent some hours at the Bar Centre, Ikeja High Court. Eating, chatting, granting interview. Life in the Tigers’ lair can be fun.

SATURDAY 14TH FEBRUARY 2009
Was at the Police College for the Tigers’ Weekend Sports Programme. Even though all those who turned were 51/2, we still had a good time, running about with our 40 years old plus bodies about, playing a similitude of beach soccer.

3RD WEEK JAN 2009 (19TH - 24TH)

2009-02-13T13:58:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

Monday 19th January 2009
The first Squib edition of the year, out. Cover? The 5th Fawehimiism Festival: The Clash of Titans. Left for Abuja, this morning. Myself and Chief G.O.K Ajayi S.A.N. For my case (C.J Lagos Vs Adesina Ogunlana) before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee. The petitioner, Justice Ibitola Sotuminu former Chief Judge, Lagos, absent as usual. No witness in fact for the prosecution. The LPDC could not form quorum. Matter adjourned indefinitely.
Came back safely to Lagos with Chief Ajayi S.A.N. And, can you believe this - Chief paid my air fare back. Business class. Squib got himself a great dad, you say?

Tuesday 20th January 2009
Was at the Ikeja High court today. In the afternoon. Geckoed and lazed about.

Wednesday 21st January 2009
Had a case at the Ikeja High Court. Finished around 11:00a.m. Did a Tigers’ ‘Exco Meeting. Left for the NBA national Secretariat, Lagos with the Chief Tiger, Dave Ajetomobi and a Tigeress. To check upon the Joint Bid of the three Lagos State branches of the NBA (Lagos, Ikeja and Ikorodu) for the 2009 Annual Conference of the NBA. Looked like the Joint Bid would scale through.

Thursday 22nd January 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Late in the afternoon. Went to one or two court to ‘collect’ dates for matters over-ran by the 42 day strike of JUSUN (Dec 1 2008 - Jan 12 2009).

Friday 23rd January 2009
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Nothing much appeared going on. Heard that the meeting of the Lagos Judiciary Workers, called yesterday to “select representatives to dialogue with the state government over workers’ welfare” flopped. The convener was Ismail Adesina Esq. Are the workers in disarray? Squib’s investigation show that there are cracks among the workers. There is a group led by Ismail Adesina Esq. which claims that the State Executives of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigerian (JUSUN), having been sacked by Lagos Judiciary and as such do not enjoy recognition by the government and management and as such cannot represent the workers in negotiation with government. There is also another group known as the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) Lagos State Branch, Judiciary Unit, headed by one Mr. S. Salami. The main grouse of the ASCSN against the JUSUN is that JUSUN is claiming to represent all categories of workers in the Lagos State Judiciary whereas all Senior Staff from grade 07 are members of the ASCSN and not JUSUN.

On Friday 23rd January 2009, the ASCSN came up with a notice to all her members warning them not embark on any strike against the Lagos State Government. However it would appear that the JUSUN led by Mr. Segun Omoboye is the organised group with the greatest influence on the workers, notwithstanding that Omoboye and other leaders of the JUSUN are in Court, challenging their dismissal from service in Court. The JUSUN as at Friday 23rd January 2009 had sent to the office of the Attorney-General Lagos State, the list of five representatives of the workers to discuss and negotiate with the government on the improvement on the welfare interests of the workers. The meeting between the government and the judiciary is heavily supported and monitored by the Nigerian Bar Association, to avoid another labour crisis in the Judiciary.

Saturday 24th January 2009
With five other Tigers, observed the Ikeja Bar Weekly Sporting Day at the Police College Ikeja. Boy, was the harmattan tough, the air was so dry that we could only play soccer for just about forty minutes. But it was fun nonetheless.

3RD WEEK NOVEMBER 2008 (17TH-22ND)

2008-12-10T21:25:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY
Monday 17h November 2008
The Squib’s out. Cover story entitled “Where is Milord? (Kayode-Ogunmekan J.) Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a case. The case was in the court of an obviously over-worked Judge. The court, particularly the bar was in terrible shape. The inner bar has only two good seats while the outer bar has at least an entire row of seats unusable. Earlier in the morning, was at the Magistrate Court, Tapa Lagos. For a case. This Magistrate Court is an interesting one – metal cubicles parading themselves as courts.

Tuesday 18th November 2008
Came to the Ikeja High Court, in the afternoon. Later went on with some Tiger branch leaders for a meeting of the F.R.A Williams Bar Centre Building Committee. Was at the Police Headquarters Ikeja. Gecko business.

Wednesday 19th November 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Was lucky to have my two cases before a quality judge. Yeah tripping quality judge.
cool as cucumber,
deep as amber,
smart and clever,
yet not a ‘taker’
my, a judge to remember!
In the course of my work, told the honourable court my sincere opinion of her ladyship. That, she’s one of the best Judges in the State. Only for a jealous (yes he must be green-eyed) spoilt-sport to chip in, and loudly too “No toasting.” Can you imagine that? But then “tomo eni ba dara ka wi, joo.” Jokes apart, Oyfs J is a steady, good Judge. Say whatever you care, any time I see quality, I swoon.

Thursday 20th November 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. for two cases. Had one in Justice Candide Johnson’s Court. Couldn’t help for some time now, notice that the court had these distinct features
(a) Always crowded with counsel and litigants
(b) Presiding Judge hardly sits before 10.00a.m.
(c) The cause list is always very long
(d) The Judge though sharp and hard-working is obviously over-worked
(e) The bar section of the court has many broken seats.
Friday 21st November 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. my case couldn’t go on. Opposing counsel, ill. Since two days ago, I ‘ve been seeing a “Ghana Beckons” posters of the NBA Ikeja branch. The Tigers are planning an Excursion Trip to Ghana. Seems like fun. Won’t you rather join the train?
Saturday 22nd November 2008
Was at the Police College, Ikeja with other fitness minded Tigers (NBA Ikeja branch members) and friends. As usual the regimen of exercises and games was done in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The only Tigeress present, Amina Imana also enjoyed herself and was at the s occer game, the centre referee. In the soccer game, the Aston Villa of Ikeja parading faded stars lkeja Dave Ajetomobi, Isa Masaba Buhari, Sina Adegbite and their captain Niyi, had to abandon the match ten minutes into the second half due to loss of strength and stamina. The other side of the Ikeja Tigers was leading 1:0 at that time. On humanitarian grounds, Referee Amina Imana and her deputy Okey Ogbu yielded to the Aston Villa side and put an end to the game.
Later in the afternoon, went to attend the wedding of a Tiger, Barrister Taiwo Adedeji at Abule Egba, Lagos.

2ND WEEK NOVEMBER 2008 (10TH -15TH)

2008-11-29T13:34:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY
Monday 10th November 2008
The Squib’s out. Cover story on the ‘travails’ of the editor, before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee. Infact I was supposed to be at Abuja today. To appear before the LPDC. But the session was aborted. The Secretary LPDC sad the body couldn’t form quorum to sit. Was at the Ikeja High Court, instead. This time around as counsel to an accused person.

Tuesday 11th November 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court in the afternoon. And left after only an hour or two. Heard of certain disquiet at the Lagos High Court, Igbosere where some awaiting trial inmates created a scene in Justice Adebisi Kayode –Ogunmekan’s Court because of the prolonged absence of the Judge from her own court!

Wednesday 12th November 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Mainly for a meeting. Tigers’. Spent the evening with a silk. A silk Tiger.

Thursday 13th November 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For an afternoon case. Fast paced one. Four Prosecution witnesses examined, cross-examined within 21/2 hours. Left the court in the evening for an “out of office”
meeting.

Friday 14th November 2008
News about newly appointed silk (25 in number) out. Femi Falana, the most prominent name on the shortlist was one of those dropped. What a shocker! Quite a few of those approved by the Privileges Committee are considered by many Lagos Lawyers as anonymous. Heard a wag actually dub the 2008 set of silk as the “The Anonymous Club.” One good choice though was Lawal Alade Muhammed Pedro. Peddy for short or ‘Peddy Oro’. Peddy is the Solicitor General, Lagos State. Very good and resourceful in civil litigation.

Saturday 15th November 2008
With other ten Tigers participated in this week’s Sports and Keep Fit programme of the NBA Ikeja branch. Really enjoyed ourselves – jogging and doing all manners of exercises. Ended as usual with a game of soccer. The only lady around, Amina, was our referee. Our venue was the Police College Ikeja, opposite the High Court. Refreshment after the programme included fresh palm-wine. Next Saturday is yet another day. Come and share some fun and lose that your flab in the process.

FIRST WEEK NOVEMBER 2008 (3RD -8TH)

2008-11-17T16:04:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

Mon. 3rd November 2008
Squibs' out. Cover Story: Segun Raji-“Lawyer in self-help scandal.” Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a case. Very much a Monday morning scene-the court so full of lawyers, litigants and Judiciary staff. The Tigers' (NBA Ikeja branch) meeting held today. Full, fun and lovely as usual. The November born Tigers' Birthday cake cut. Much better cake than the October's. Was told about a lady who went home with quite a large chunk of the cake. Wags said that the lady took so big a portion as a consolation prize. This, because she was one of those who lost elections in June 2008 at the Ikeja bar.

Tue. 4th November 2008
At the Ikeja and Lagos High Courts. Briefly today. Busy preparing with Daddy 3 for my Abuja case.

Wed. 5th November 2008
Still preparing for my Abuja case.

Thur. 6th November 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. At about 2.30pm. It started to rain. Was clad today in a Buba and Sokoto, with a giraffe pattern of black and white. Donned a black cap to match, prompting a senior colleague to say “You just look like one of the A.C (Action Congress party) who “chops” money in Abuja.” But I thought Abuja the seat of the Federal Government was under the control of the Peoples Democratic Party!

Fri. 7th November 2008
Spent the whole afternoon with Daddy 3, remembered fondly by Chief Mary Bassey as “The Terror of my life.” Don't know which is sharper -Daddy 3's mind or Daddy 3's dressing? Then the message came at about 3.30pm: the Abuja case was no longer happening Monday next. Psssst!

Sat. 8th November 2008
Was at the Secretariat of the Nigerian Bar Association Ikeja. With other members of the Ikeja Bar Sports and Keep Fit Club (Tigers Sportif). Moved to the Police College Playing field to “Shake body.” Normally the Tigers' Sportif, use the Vinning Field, but had to use the Police College today when the V.F was not available.
Left the Police College at about 9.30am, our bodies fully “shaken.” Now, don't tell any body this - my side was walloped 6-0 in the soccer game. While leaving the Police College (we all) saw and greeted a nice, pretty, chief magistrate who came to do some exercises herself and was going back home.
Lazy tigers, when will you rouse yourself and join the Fitness Train? We meet again next week 7.00am - 10.00am. For further enquires contact Okey-08023192145, and Adesina-08034854066. Remember you've got nothing to lose, except your pot-bellies!

4TH WEEK OCTOBER 2008 (27TH OCT - 1ST NOV)

2008-11-11T18:34:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

Mon. 27th October 2008
The Squib's out. Cover story: 'Revealed why some lawyers fail easily in court. Had a case in court. Matter couldn't go on as prosecution witnesses absent in court.

Tue. 28th of October 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court for a case. Before one of my favourite judges. Soon finished there, and at liberty to gecko about.

Wed. 29th October 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Did one or two matters before leaving with a few Tigers for some bar duties. Along the way, ran into a trial conference meeting in one big chamber.
For a fleeting moment noticed that it was not only ideas and cross-pollination of ideas that were flowing; refreshments too. Refreshments, thinking and planning go together, I think. But then a poor gecko like me may just soak in enough refreshment at the thinking session and doze off!

Thur. 30th October 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. of course for a matter. Everything is not all 'gecko, gecko' you know. Later went to the Lagos High Court. Did a case there. Lost it gallantly. Followed up on some other matters. Back to the Ikeja High Court, but it was rather late in the afternoon.

Fri. 31st October 2008
Came to the Ikeja High Court, at noon. Went to the Tigers' bar, the secretariat of the Nigerian Bar Association Ikeja branch, the Bar Centre. Noticed that the lawn was cut. Toilets in great shape too. Later in the evening attended the Dinner organized in honour of Obafemi Patrick Falana Esq. by the Justice Research Institute at the Elias Centre, 4A Ademola Street Off Awolowo Road, Ikoyi.

A small crowd of dignitaries around there. Let me mention just a few. Falana himself, Mrs. Maryam Uwais, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo S.A.N, Enieka Ngike S.A.N, Chief Wole Olanipekun SAN 'Tax man' Ipaye, Rauf Aregbesola, Dave Ajetomobi, Chair Ikeja bar. Nurudeen Ogbara Ex-Chair Ikorodu bar, Jiti Ogunye and Honourable Justice Olubunmi Oyewole.
Nice enough evening but I was expecting a little more spark. Well, the calmness is understandable. The ‘revolutionaries’ are getting not only older but richer!

Sat. 1st November 2008
Was at Vining Memorial Church field this morning with six other tigers for the branch's Sports and Keep fit programme. Exercise, jogging, three a side soccer game and tug of-war pulls kept us busy and happy for almost two hours.
The only lady amongst us, six year old Tutu Adejare Kembi who followed her dad to the pitch was no push-over.
She made all the lapping rounds and was the ball-girl. Cute, smart kid, who later asked me in all seriousness “why is your neck like that of a woman?” Whao!, you said? The soccer game ended in a massacre of chairman Ajetomobi's side, who slumped to the Adesina Adegbite (assistant general secretary) led side by 1-8 goals.

Okey Ogbu, the chairman of the Sports and Keep Fit committee (SKF) couldn't make the event. The poor guy cropped up an illness earlier in the week and lay bed-ridden in the hospital. We wish the chairman of our “Jumpology” department a quick recovery.

AFTER DINNER POSE

2008-10-29T16:29:00.001-07:00

FROM LEFT FRONT ROW: DAYO ILORI, DARE AKANDE, ADESINA OGUNLANA, YINKA FAROUNBI, ISA BUHARI

STANDING FROM LEFT: TAJUDEEN IBRAHIM, YEMI OKEWOYE, ADEKUNLE OJO, KEMI PINHEIRO S.A.N., MR. OGUNTADE, DAVE AJETOMOBI, GBENGA ONIYIRE, CHIEF BOLAJI AYORINDE S.A.N AND MR. ADEBOWALE KAMORU

3RD WEEK OCTOBER 2008 (20TH -24TH)

2008-10-29T14:58:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MON. 20TH OCTOBER 2008
The Squib’s out-The cover story was on the new list of potential silks. Came to the Ikeja High Court. Later moved to Ikorodu with some other Tigers to attend a workshop organized by the Citizens Assistance Centre and the NBA Ikorodu in collaboration with the British Council and the Department for International Development (DFID) via the Security, Justice and Growth Project.
As a restless gecko, left the workshop for a while to take a nap in the shades. Came back in time to meet ‘light refreshment’ in the form of pounded yam, egusi soup and fish

TUE. 21ST OCTOBER 2008
No case in court today, so had good time to gecko about, on the case of an alleged fake lawyer. Diary, trust me to keep you posted.

WED. 22ND OCTOBER 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court, today. For a case. By 9.30a.m, was free as matter was adjourned.

THUR. 23RD OCTOBER 2008
Was at the Lagos High Court. Oh, not the Igbosere Road Division. Ruth the one at the TBS. Finished with my case early enough, to venture on a squib adventure to the Nigerian Law School Lagos campus. The toilets were still in fairly good shape almost in the same condition they were twelve years ago when I was a pupil there.
Later in the evening, went for dinner at the JADE GARDEN, a Chinese restaurant. Was not alone. About twenty-five other lawyers were present. Dinner was held in honour of Adekunle Ojo esq, elected 2nd vice-president of the NBA. September 28 2008 and Dave Ajetomobi esq elected the chairman NBA Ikeja on June 30 2008.
Great evening I tell you. Can’t wait to tell you some of the stories and yarns I heard there, privately. Oh not here, not now. I said privately

FRI. 24TH OCTOBER 2008
Came to the Ikeja High Court in the afternoon. Was at the Secretariat of the Tigers for one or two things. Have heard, since Wednesday that 7 more lawyers including Biodun Owonikoko and Professor Imram Oluwole Smith have been cleared to join the earlier number of 57 candidates for the final interview on October 20 2008.

2ND WEEK OCTOBER 2008 (13TH - 17TH)

2008-10-25T15:26:00.000-07:00

MON. OCTOBER 13 2008
The Squib’s out. Cover story on the existence of a fake law – Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules. Was at the Lagos High Court (TBS) today. For a case, that could not and did not go on because for months on end, records of proceedings in the case could not be produced by the Registry of the court. Pathetic, no, tragic!

TUE. OCTOBER 14 2008
Spent the morning in the chambers. Later came to Ikeja for a meeting.

WED. OCTOBER 15 2008
Was first at the Lagos High Court Igbosere. For a Pre-Trial Conference (PTC). From there left for the Ikeja High Court. Attended NBA Ikeja Exco meeting. Y’ know, a gecko can also be an office holder.

THUR. OCTOBER 16 2008
Came, in the afternoon to the Secretariat of the Tigers (NBA Ikeja learnt of the case of a Tiger whose car was “oppressively” impounded by LASTMA. Was part of the NBA Ikeja delegation to the LASTMA “Remove Park” Alausa to retrieve the Tiger’s car.

FRI. OCTOBER 17 2008
Was at the Max, Kirikiri, today for just about 11/2 hours. Left for the Ikeja High Court. Made preparations with some Tigers for the take-off tomorrow of the TIGER SPORTIF, the Sports Club of the NBA Ikeja.

FIRST WEEK OCTOBER 2008

2008-10-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON .6TH OCTOBER 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. The Squib’s out. The cover was a Critique of the so called Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure Rules) 2008, by learned counsel, Adejare Kembi. The court premises, was, seemingly so, filled to the brim with lawyers, litigants and a few lay abouts. Tigers (NBA Ikeja branch members) held their monthly meeting. Lively gathering as usual. General monthly Birthday celebration culture started in the Tiger Bar today. With a big, but rather gristly and not so yummy cake for the celebrants and for the whole house. Good idea but please let the cake be memorable!

TUE. 7TH OCTOBER 2008
Again was at Ikeja High Court. Heard that in far away Lagos High Court, a particular honourable judge took time off in the middle of a case to abuse, insult, denigrate and even prophecy against the SQUIB and her Publisher Adesina Ogunlana Esq. According to the judge, the SQUIB is trash, rubbish and her Publisher a dumb lawyer who only knows how to write rubbish about judges of the Lagos State High Court. A junior counsel who wanted to make progress in life and in law was advised to check out of the evil chambers! The honourable Judge is Funmilayo Atilade J. our response here? As the court pleases! We are used to such high praises and recognition from the Bench.

WED. 8TH OCTOBER 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court, had quite a long day in Justice Candide-Johnson’s court. Well, the judge did not arrive the hallowed ground until 10:35a.m. Well, the maybe the Judge was not to be blamed that much. The court’s clock itself ran forty minutes late!
The Candide-Johnson court is a lecture room any day for um, lazy, unorganised and, em er, (shall we say it?) none too bright – attorneys.
Only that the lectures from the bench could take a while and you know what that means, especially if you are a lawyer, like many of us self-employed counsel, who eat on the wings.
Ah, I forget to mention the terrible condition of the bar in Justice Candide’s court. Well much later on this in the Learned Squib.

THUR. 9TH OCTOBER 2008
Came to the Lagos High Court Igbosere. Saw quite a lot of – Action Congress “en postered” buses on the Street leading off to King’s College. Heard that the Action Congress was holding a rally preparatory to the 11th October 2008 Local Government elections. Did one or two un-geckoish activities in the court and left.

FRI. 10TH OCTOBER 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court for a brief period. Moved over to Lagos to see, to met and plan with Daddy 3. Only geckos would understand the yarn

LAST WEEK SEPT/FIRST WEEK OCT 2008

2008-10-25T15:20:00.000-07:00

MON. 29TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Public Holiday to mark the end of 30 day long Muslim fast. Of course no court. The squib, in consequence not out. Thank God after a two months partial closure the 3rd Mainland Bridge was re-opened early this morning.

TUE. 30TH SEPTMBER 2008
Public Holiday. For the same reason above. The courts remained closed.

WED. 1ST OCTOBER 2008
Public Holiday, to mark the October 1 1960 independence of Nigeria. Of course the courts remained close. Wonderful, wonderful country. Three public holidays in a row!

THUR. 2ND OCTOBER 2008
Spent a little time at the Lagos High Court. Moved later to the Ikeja High Court.
From some what afar, saw a group of V.I.Ps somewhere on the grounds near the chief Judge’s office. Before long learnt that they were a group of retired judges of Lagos State who came to partake of the “kindness and generousity” of the incumbent leadership of the Lagos State Judiciary which was giving out brand new TOYOTA AVENSIS CARS to retired judges of the state. Before now there were serious but underground complaints by some retired judges that they faced constant humiliation and inconvenience due to having jalopies for vehicles.
While many of the retired judges who came to collect their cars expressed their gratitude and satisfaction for the Judiciary’s kind gesture, former Chief Judge, Ibitola Adebisi Sotuminu C.J sang a different tune.
The former leader of the Lagos Judiciary (2001-2004) declined to collect her car because the colour did not suit her. While a grey coloured car was allocated to her Sotuminu C.J insisted on getting a black-car. When a black car was not readily available “mama” as Sotuminu C.J was better known when in service, well, um, drove off. Geckos heard some by-standers wondering whether it would not have been better for ‘mama’ to collect the car and get it a coat of paint of a suitable colour.

FRI. 3RD OCTOBER 2008
Was at the Lagos High Court. Briefly came to the Ikeja High Court. Geckoed and lawyered about for some time before heading off to Geckosville

SECOND WEEK SEPTEMBER 2008 (15TH -19TH)

2008-10-04T04:08:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
MON. 15TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Ikeja High Court. Was there. Had a case before Hon. Justice OBD. ‘Lawyers and Judges’ traffic still light in the court. The Squib’s out. Cover Story on the emergence of Adekunle Ojo as the new 2nd Vice-President of the Nigerian Bar Association.

TUE. 16TH SEPTEMBER 2008
The magistrate court, Sabo, Yaba. Was there. Saw a magistrate frowning against rather unethical conduct of a defendant’s counsel. The magistrate wondered how counsel would join hands with a litigant to frustrate due adjudication of matters before the court.
Good talk. Hope that other adjudications will be this strong and firm. No single public toilet in the entire court compound. So how do litigants and counsel relieve themselves? Even the toilets for the members of staff are in the main, bad. The judiciary can do much better than this. Its not only judges and magistrates that should enjoy good toilets.
Em, by the way I saw a wonder in the office of the head of administration at the Sabo Magistrate Court. The wonder is the visitor’s chair in the madam’s office. That chair, if you can call it that reminded me of the squashed up mouth of an idiot. It is an affront to ask any visitor there to “take your seat”. It is an insult to the office holder. It is an embarrassment, an eye sore to the judiciary. I beg, that mangled carcass of a visitor’s chair in the office of the Assistant chief registrar, Magistrate Court Sabo Yaba should be changed immediately

WED. 17TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Was at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti Street Yaba. Spent some time and left. Can you imagine this-there is a place they sell good honey in this famous police station. Certainly one of the few sweet spots in that station.
Later in the afternoon, heard of the closure of the CHANNELS TELEVISION STATION by policemen and State Security Services Operatives.
CHANNELS’ offence-broadcast of claim that President Musa-Yar’dua would resign from office after an imminent cabinet reshuffle. According to government, that claim was untrue. But did that justify the closure of the T.V station?

THUR. 18TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Was at the Lagos High Court, Igbosere. The public toilet there (the one in the corridor to the court of Appeal) still in good condition. Well kept. ‘Strolled’ into Hon. Justice Oluwayemi’s Court. Wow what a beautiful, decorum-inducing and justice inciting court room. Neat, very well lit court. Nice, very nice wood paneling. Even an accused will not mind to be sentenced to a long stretch at the Max, Kirikiri, in this court. Hope the structures last however.

FRI. 19TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Was at the SCID Panti, a follow up to my Wednesday visit. Today was engaged in a discussion by a cop in the administrative section of the Legal Department.
COP: Ha barrister you are here?
Lawyer: Yes I am.
COP: What you gave to do the job was small. Not enough to do the work.
Lawyer: But the job has been done. The verification of the sureties houses have been done.
COP: Which work is done? He said you gave only …… naira
Lawyer: That’s what I have. And the job is done
COP: The job is done? Well let me tell you, how can you just give somebody just ………… naira and expect him to go to all those places in Oworo and swear to affidavit backing his visits. No problem since the officer concerned has done the work. But if were me, never!
Lawyer: Well, thank you.

2ND WEEK SEPTEMBER 2008 (8TH - 12TH)

2008-09-14T19:17:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 8TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Was at the Cathedral Church of Christ Marina, Lagos for the New Legal Year celebration. My first time of coming to the Lagos Island since July. After the church service, repaired to the Lagos high Court for the usual march past parade ceremony. Only 31 judges out of about 50 came for the event. Unlike previous years only few lawyers turned up too.

TUE. 9TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Activites still dull here. Many of the High Courts not yet open for business despite that the New Legal Year has started. Saw serious renovation work going on in some court rooms at the courts complex. Why is there no end to renovation of structures in a new building commissioned for use less than five years ago?

WED. 10TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Was at the Maximum Security Prison, Kirikiri, Lagos. Noticed a new quietness about the place. Was told that a big-man inmate-Emeka Ezeugo a.k.a Reverend King, a murder convict, who used to receive dozens of visitors daily has been transferred out, to Kuje Prisons Abuja.
Left the Max place for the Ikeja High Court. New leaders of the NBA Ikeja met with the Chief Judge of Lagos State Adetula Alabi J. today.
An interesting meeting if you ask me. These were the five great declarations of the honourable Chief Judge.
1. The root of bitterness between the C.J and the Ikeja bar (the recommendation of the bar that Alabi J. (as he then was should not be made the Chief Judge after Fatai Adeyinka C.J.) has been uprooted
2. The honourable Chief Judge believes in the mutual and profitable interdepence of the bar and the bench.
3. The honourable Chief Judge is not a wicked or a difficult person but rather a soft-hearted one, who can even be manipulated if approached in the right manner
4. The honourable Chief Judge has no skeleton in his cupboard and so has nothing to hide.
5. The honourable Chief Judge will hold Dave Ajetomobi chairman, NBA Ikeja responsible for any break down in communication between the bench and the (Ikeja) bar since he, Ajetomobi is free henceforth to approach the Chief Judge on any issue pertaining to the bar and the Judiciary.
Didn’t I tell you it was an interesting meeting?

THUR. 11TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Not much going on.

FRI. 12TH SEPTEMBER 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court Attended to one or two Ikeja Bar matters. Moved on the attend Doyin Kembi’s marriage engagement programme. Doyin is a barrister, her father too, a barrister.

4TH WEEK JUNE 2008 (23RD - 27TH)

2008-07-08T15:01:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 23RD JUNE 2008
The Squib’s out. Cover Story - NBA Ikeja 2008 elections latest: fear grips candidates. Also on the cover was the story of Barrister Jide Aladejobi’s reprieve from the order of disbarment on him. Was at the Magistrate court Tapa. For a case. The court room is a converted “container cabin.” Hope, litigants will not at the end of the day receive, “Container judgements”?

TUE. 24TH JUNE 2008
Was at the Lagos High Court, Igbosere. Oh, what a rainy day! At least it was a four hour down pour. No light in the High Court. The courts became very dim and so work could not go on. Witnessed a judge, Sola Williams J trying valiantly to continue sitting. His Lordship gave up after thirty minutes as the court got dimmer and dimmer. The list was out. List of those qualified to participate in the NBA Ikeja branch elections 2008. Just as the SQUIB predicted, only about 50% of the contestants were cleared by the Layi Babatunde S.A.N Electoral Committee. The big name victims were Niyi Akinmola and Dele Oloke, chairmanship aspirants.

WED. 25TH JUNE 2008
Was at the Lagos High Court, Igbosere. A wasteful journey as the courts did not sit. Again no light. And justice could not be dished out in darkness. What a bad situation really? For power outage to sabotage the administration of justice! Even no diesel could be found for the generator.

THUR. 26TH JUNE 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For one or two cases. The judges sat and the cases went on. Noticed that for some time now, the toilets of the secretariat of the Ikeja bar had become unapproachable. So people have been approaching the back of the building to relieve themselves. Mercifully of only the No. 1 Tigers, please do something about your toilets. Quick. It is a nose and eye sore.

FRI. 27TH JUNE 2008

Came to the Ikeja High Court, rather late in the afternoon. Missed the seminar on commercial law organised by the Ministry of Justice. Who will defend me before Titi Shitta-Bey? That good lady gave me a special invitation to the event and I didn’t come, Titi, next time, I’II be there.

SECOND WEEK JUNE 2008 (9TH - 13TH )

2008-06-21T18:26:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 9TH JUNE 2008
The Squib’s out. Cover story - The Great Assignment (NBA Ikeja New Electoral Committee headed by Layi Babatunde S.A.N). Had one or two matters before one of my favourite judges. Neither went on. Couldn’t get cost either. The cost I got was cost in cause. That’s something, I guess.
Went later to Lagos High Court. Attended the NBA Lagos branch special session for late Professor Jadesola Akande who died in April, 2008. Well attended ceremony. About three hundred lawyers present. Saw some judges too. Earlier on in the day, learnt about the death (murder?) of one Lateef Osho Jogunomi an auxiliary staff of the Sheriff Department, Lagos State Judiciary. Jogunomi died on Saturday 7th June 2008, from head injuries sustained from attack by a LASTMA Staff.

TUE. 10TH JUNE 2008
Was at the Lagos High Court. For one or two cases. Had an interesting time in one of the courts as the judge turned emergency pastor and gave serious, motherly counselling to a distressed litigant. It was one of those husband/wife palava cases

WED. 11TH JUNE 2008
Ikeja High Court. Was there. Had a swell time in Court Justice Dada’s Court. Saw the conversion of a sure prison term of a convict to a fine payable within 14days. How humane of the judge! The conversion reminded of the famous shakespearese
“the quality of mercy
is not strained………
In the evening heard the news of the death of Lamidi Adedibu, the hugely controversial and influential Ibadan High Chief and politician. Adedibu in the prime of his powers was a licensed political bully and bulldozer, who without holding any government post trampled on Governors, Ministers, parliamentarians etc.
The source of his powers? Grass-roots appeal and presidential support of Olusegun Obasanjo who ruled Nigeria from 1999- 2007.

THUR. 12TH JUNE 2008
In Lagos State, no work. The government as usual since 1999 declared today a public holiday in honour of the general elections of June 12 1993, which result were annulled on June 23 1993. The annulment of the election which would have produced Moshood Kashimawo Abiola as President gave rise to the crisis which ultimately led to the birth of the fourth republic.

FRI. 13TH JUNE 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a case. Matter did not go on. Geckoed around and about. Spoke on phone with Mr. Layi Babatunde S.A.N, the Chairman of the reconstituted Electoral Committee of the NBA Ikeja branch. He would not give the date when the postponed elections will would take place. According to the silk, “we are still looking at the records submitted to us for screening the candidates. Nonetheless we are conscious of the time requirement for the election in the bye-law and shall abide with it. The preparation for the election must be solid that’s what the election itself will stand on. We’ll come out with our finding before the election is held”

Last Week in May 2008 (26th -30th)

2008-06-04T14:42:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 26TH MAY 2008
The Squib’s out-Cover story Help! Tiger Bar in Danger. Was at the Ikeja High Court later in the afternoon after spending some-time at the Maximum Security Prisons, Kirikiri. As a visitor.

TUE. 27TH MAY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. In the afternoon. Had a go at Rex Onobrakpeya Esq., the self made chairman of the Electoral Committee of the NBA Ikeja. Accused him of partiality and unilaterial decision in clearing all the contestants for the June elections of the Tiger Bar. Our quarrel was later settled. Parted as friends again.

WED. 28TH MAY 2008
Out on campaign, campaign for Dave Ajetomobi-the correct choice for the chairmanship of the Ikeja bar.

THUR. 29TH MAY 2008
Democracy day. No courts in session. Govt. declares public holiday. Spent practically the whole day doing political work for our candidates in the June 2008 elections.

FRI. 30TH MAY 2008
Spent some time in chambers earlier on in the day. In the afternoon was off for campaigns. Started smelling victory, already.

3RD WEEK MAY, 2008 (19TH -23RD)

2008-05-30T15:04:00.000-07:00

Squib Diary

Monday 19th May 2008
The Squib’s out. Cover story-NBA 2008 Elections. Will the Tigers follow the law? Was at the Ikeja High court, for my cases. One went on, the other didn’t.

Tuesday 20th May 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court for two cases, in the same court. The Judge was however not available. Quite unusual of Oyefeso J.

Wednesday 21st May 2008
Had matters at the Ikeja High court. None went on. Ouch!

Thursday 22nd May 2008
Was in the chambers in the morning hours. Then went to Ikeja High Court. Noticed that the Ikeja Bar is ‘pregnant’ with the imminent branch elections on June 2 2008.

Friday 23rd May 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. For a case. Criminal. The witness for the prosecution absent due to bereavement. Case adjourned without much fuss. Buried today, Barrister Abraham Adesanya leader of the Afenifere and leader of the Yoruba. Adesanya, 86, died about six weeks ago. May his soul rest in peace.

FIRST WEEK MAY 2008(5TH - 9TH)

2008-05-12T00:14:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 5TH MAY
Squib’s out. Cover story :'Like A Diamond In the Sky' – Tribute to Prof Jadesola Akande. Was at the Magistrate Court – Sabo for a case. Case couldn’t go on – prosecution not ready.

TUE. 6TH MAY
At the Ikeja High Court. Had a criminal matter. Case couldn’t go on. Prosecution not ready.

WED. 7TH MAY
Was at the Magistrate Court Sabo. For a matter at court I. Criminal matter. Matter couldn’t go on. Prosecution not ready.

THUR. 8TH MAY
Was at the Ikeja High Court today. In the late afternoon, got down to the Nigerian Law School, Lagos Campus. For the wake-keeping of late Professor Jadesola Akande, former vice-chancellor of the Lagos State University (1988 – 1993).

Quite a crowd - about 1500, present. Two former Governors of Lagos State, Major General Mobolaji Johnson and Mr. Bola Tinubu, Asiwaju of Lagos, were among the dignitaries there. Saw Mrs. Jacinta Olusoga, the University Registrar when Akande ruled as Vice-chancellor. In her time those days, Olusoga was a near raving beauty. At the tail end of the ceremony, the Forum of Past and Present Leaders and Activists of the Lagos State University Students Union raised some patriotic songs. Trust me to be amongst.

FRI. 9TH MAY
Was at the church of the Assumption Falomo Ikoyi Lagos for the funeral service of late professor Jadesola Akande. A well organized and well attended service it was.

Noticed that students of LASU and their Union participated “loudly” in the burial. But I didn’t see any sign of women groups in active participation, save perhaps Zontas International.

LAST WEEK APRIL/1ST WEEK MAY 08

2008-05-05T00:22:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 28TH APRIL, 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court today. The Squib’s out. Cover story - 'Lucky 7. Lagos Judiciary recalls suspended workers.' Court compound, full. A typical Monday morning.

TUE. 29TH APRIL, 2008
Was in chambers in the morning. Had a titanic case at the High Court in the afternoon.
In the evening, heard strange news - Professor Jadesola Akande, former Lagos State University Vice-Chancellor was dead? Can’t be true.

WED. 30TH APRIL, 2008
Confirmed. Sad news of Mama Akande’s (Professor Jadesola Akande) death confirmed. What a shocking exit! What could have killed the amazon, just like that? Heard that she just slept and didn’t wake up again.
Was at the Sabo Magistrate Court, for a case. Prosecutor absent. Left for Ikeja High Court for an afternoon matter.

THUR. 1ST MAY, 2008
May Day Holiday. With Adekunle Ojo former NBA Ikeja Chairman and Lanre Ajanaku Esq., paid a condolence visit to the family of late Professor Jadesola Akande at her Raymond Njoku street, Ikoyi, Lagos residence.

FRI. 2ND MAY, 2008
Today again was at the house of Mama Akande. Saw a few dignitaries in the house. Saw a very dear old aunty of mine, who took it upon herself to introduce me to several judges.
The way ‘Aunty Jegs’ went about it, some innocents started eyeing me with a special respect. I, a mere 'gecko.'

4TH WEEK APRIL, 2008 (21ST -25TH)

2008-04-28T14:18:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 21ST APRIL 2008
The Squib’s out. Cover story – The NO - CAP-IN – COURT – RULE, TIME FOR A RETHINK? Did some hours in chambers. Was not in court at all today.

TUE. 22ND APRIL 2008
Flew to Abuja today. To face Disciplinary Committee of the Body of Benchers. Over the Sotuminu C.J petition. The same old petition. The complainant did not show up. As usual, since 2003. Story at:http://www.learnedsquib.blogspot.com

Later in the afternoon, left for Port- Harcourt.
Received well by my learned friend, Gbenga Ojo Esq. and his equally learned wife. Will remember for a long time, madam’s pounded yam and goat meat infested rich egusi soup dinner! Mmmmmm!

Gani – Chief Gani Fawehinmi S.A.N clocked 70 years today.
The old man, couldn’t come for the celebrations in Lagos. Was in far away London, battling cancer (of the lung). My heart felt prayer is for a miracle cure for own very dear Gani.

WED. 23RD APRIL 2008
Visited the Federal High Court, Port – Harcourt and the State High Court. Both courts not too far away from each other. The High Court Complex is grander than the Federal Court.
Later moved to one or two places, not forgetting to partake of the bodies of two roasted plantains and some peppered fish. Yum, yum.
Came back to Lagos some hours later.

THUR. 24TH APRIL 2008
Was at the Ebute – Metta Magistrate Court. Later went to the Lagos High Court. Very neat court environment.

FRI. 25TH APRIL 2008
Spent hours on end at the SCID Panti (well known police station). All part of a day’s job; I guess?

3RD WEEK APRIL, 2008 (14th - 18th)

2008-04-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

Mon. 14th April, 2008.
The Squib’s out. Cover story – NBA General Elections, 2008 - who is afraid of Dele Adesina S.A.N Quite a lot of people in court. The Ikeja High Court.
NBA Lagos held her monthly meeting today. The meeting celebrated the 80th Birthday of Mr. Tunji Gomez of the “it is a matter of conscience” fame.
Geckos saw a very good friend of the Squib - an erstwhile Chief Promoter of the ‘obnoxious publication’ at the occasion.
The Squib promoter was a former Chief Judge of Lagos State. The honourable was seen eyeing the Squib with wonder - the Squib lives on!

Tue. 15th April, 2008.
Was at the Ebute-Metta Magistrate Court. Getting to the court was not an easy task. No thanks to the on-going road reconstruction on the Yaba - Oyingbo road.
Had an interesting day in court. Saw for the first time, a magistrate asking a lawyer to address him sitting down. The lawyer was an elderly but fit gentleman who rose firmly to his legs to address the court but was directed to do his advocacy sitting down. The lawyer’s identity? Chief Badru Olaogun - Life Bencher. The honourable magistrate said it was to honour the bencher.

Wed. 16th April, 2008.
Was as the Ikeja High Court. Saw posters of some candidates running for various posts in the coming NBA Ikeja branch elections. Promise of an interesting election, come June, in the air.

Thur. 17th April, 2008.
Rained cats and dogs today. Even at that, Compound ‘A’ of the Ikeja High Court was jam-packed with cars. Had to park my car outside the premises.
Later, with about eight other lawyers moved to Ikorodu to resolve a land dispute, involving the PBF lawyers’ estate and a lady. The outcome of mission? Success.

Fri. 18th April, 2008.
Came to the Ikeja High Court in the afternoon. Caught or saw little action. But one never knows what geckos might have seen and what they could still relate later.

SECOND WEEK APRIL, 2008 (7TH - 11TH)

2008-04-20T14:07:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 7TH APRIL,2008
Squib’s out. Cover story - The Bamaiyi Case Judgment. But in the inner cover. On the
outer cover, was the picture of Dave Ajetomobi, chairmanship candidate for the NBA Ikeja Elections 2008. Was in various high courts today. For one case or the other.
Attended the official opening of the Ikeja branch of Legal City, dealers and sellers of quality wears and materials for lawyers. The Tigers monthly meeting held. As usual, full house.
Just like last month, couldn’t get the chance to sign the attendance register.

Came on in at a time Rotimi Akeredolu S.A.N, presidential candidate in the August 2008 elections, was addressing the meeting. Had quite an appealing appearance, the candidate. Talked frankly and a bit boastfully too. Might not be untoward though, in political campaign, you blow your own trumpet! However noticed that a martial song from Akeredolu “Aketi” -

Esu bembele Su
Lesu, lesu, lesu,
Esu bembele Su
Omo to ri ogun waye
Esu bemebele Su

and a rather snide remark that he (Aketi) was not a Senior Advocate for just six months (an obvious reference to Dele Adesina, his rival) did not endear him to a few Tigers.

TUE. 8TH APRIL, 2008
Was at the Lagos State High Court this morning for a case. The honourable Judge was not available. Geckoed round a bit and then left the court.

WED. 9TH APRIL, 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court for a case. My case didn’t go on. Later in the afternoon, the six newly appointed judges - Olaide Olayinka J., Okikiolu Ighile J., Bisi Akinlade J., Lawal Akapo J., Dabiri J. and Jose J. were formerly and officially presented to the public at the foyer of the Lagos High Court.

THUR. 10TH APRIL, 2008
Came to the Ikeja High Court in the afternoon. Nothing much seen or done. Chambers case before a high court judge in the morning could not go on. Judge absent.

FRI. 11TH APRIL, 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court for a case. The court sat but matter was adjourned to enable defence study latest proof of evidence.
Noticed the corridor of the courts in the old Annex building flooded with water from the air conditioning engines. This is simply not good enough, for water to be falling and collecting on the corridor. Messy, ugly, dangerous. Nobody will allow that in his home.

FIRST WEEK APRIL

2008-04-20T13:55:00.000-07:00

MON. 31ST MARCH, 2008
The Squib’s out – Cover: ‘Haba Governor Fashola!’ Came to the Ikeja High Court in the afternoon. Nothing much on.

TUE. 1ST APRIL, 2008

Came to the Ebute Metta Magistrate Court. As usual the "Isthmus" road leading to the court was blocked by cars, wares and was dirty. Left, after finishing with my case.

WED. 2ND APRIL, 2008

Was at the Ikeja High Court, for one or two cases. Saw that the High Court Judges on temporary location at the Compound B, had migrated back to their newly refurbished chambers and courts in the new court complex.

FOURTH WEEK MARCH, 2008 (24TH - 28TH)

2008-04-20T13:52:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 24TH MARCH, 2008
The Squib’s not out. On account of the Easter holiday. It’s a whole work-free week for judges during the Easter break.

TUE. 25TH MARCH, 2008
Easter vacation on. The NBA Ikeja Branch (Tigers) held a press conference over its Annual Law Week Programme starting on the morrow and to last till Sunday the 30th. Was at the Maximum Security Prison. Spent some time there and then left. Naturally.

WED. 26TH MARCH, 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Of course, the whole place was ‘dry.’ Little wonder judges were on vacation. Honourable Justice Adetula Alabi declared open the law week of the Tigers. At the occasion, the C.J presented his MISNOMER THEORY OF JUDICIAL ACTIVISM, which in short means that the legal profession has no space for activists.
But after the C.J’s speech, a Senior Advocate- Dele Adesina rose to debunk Chief Judge Alabi’s theory. And that was something.

THUR. 27TH MARCH, 2008
Was at the Airport Hotel Ikeja for the Public Lecture of the NBA Ikeja 2008 Annual Law Week. The lecture was given by Oguntade JSC. He spoke on Corruption and the Rule of Law. Interesting paper I should say.

FRI. 28TH MARCH, 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Went to the High Court Library. Spent a couple of hours there. Place was not as solemnly quiet as it used to be. Lot of chit-chat went on amongst library staff for a long time. One is tempted to think the place is now a gossip center.

SECOND WEEK MARCH, 2008 (10TH - 14TH)

2008-04-20T13:48:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 10TH MARCH, 2008
The Squib’s out. Cover Story on Justice Shitta-Bey’s near assault in court by a demented accused person.
Was at Bolade Magistrate Court for a case. Later left for KiriKiri, the Maximum Security Prison.

TUE. 11TH MARCH, 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court – geckoing about.

WED. 12TH MARCH, 2008
Went to the Magistrate Court, Tapa, Lagos. The Tapa “Court Complex” is a make shift metal cabin “court.” More like rabbit hutches. From there, went off to Lagos High Court. Geckoed seriously all over the place. Heard, saw some interesting news. Already investigating ‘em.

THUR. 13TH MARCH, 2008
Today was my birthday at the bar. Was I excited? Very well! Now if I may ask, “when were you called to the bar? If you are under 10 years (at the bar), you are still a junior, so, respect your elders. If you are more than 10 years, that means you are a senior so act your age and show good example, always.

FRI. 14TH MARCH, 2008
Came to the Ikeja High Court, in the afternoon. The place looked peaceful and innocent. Saw some geckos, while many geckos saw me.

FIRST WEEK MARCH 2008 (3RD - 7TH)

2008-04-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY

MON. 3RD MARCH, 2008
The Squib’s out. Cover story was on Femi Falana Esq. on his grouse with the Privileges Committee of the N.B.A for denying him the S.A.N award. Was at the Tigers’ monthly meeting. The Bar Centre meeting place of the N.B.A Ikeja is now too small to contain members. The place was jam-packed, including the corridor. No less than two hundred lawyers were in attendance. Saw a High Chief from Makurdi, Benue State in attendance. They called him the Hu-Or-O-Tiv, and he was dressed in the native Tiv regalia, the famous black and white patterns. As usual the Tigers’ meeting was no dull affair. Arguments, debates, speeches, tension, jokes, etc all the way.
Saw a learned friend of mine chaperoning his lawyer-daughter about in the meeting. Maybe he is a believer in the maxim “Vigilance is the eternal price for liberty.” Can’t blame Barrister K, what, with so many Tigers about! It was his daughter’s first attendance of the Tigers’ meeting.

TUE. 4TH MARCH, 2008
Went to the Maximum Security Prison, KiriKiri. For lawyer business. Even in prison, men are not born equal. There are big-men prisoners, there are small-men detainees. Left for the Ikeja High Court, Justice Nwaka’s court specifically. The judge was not “on seat.” Had never been seen June 2007 in her court, yet dozens of awaiting trial inmates languish endlessly in prison because their matters before the judge had to be put on hold.
The Judge has been on “national assignment” since June 2007, to participate as a member of an Election Petition Tribunal!

WED. 5TH MARCH, 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Did a trial at the High Court. Looked here and there, if you know what I mean. The court compound rather full today - lawyers, litigants, spectators all much around. Heard of the commotion in Justice Shitta-Bey’s Court (Lagos High Court). Detainee goes berserk (after 7 years in detention) and got bail by fire from presiding Judge, Shitta-Bey. J

THUR. 6TH MARCH, 2008
Was at the Magistrate Court, Ebute-Metta. Getting to that court compound almost compared with a camel straining through the eye of a needle. Choked in-let road, dirty environment. Bedlam here and there. That court should be moved. Came down to the Magistrate Court Sabo, for the “fake lawyer’s case” involving one Shamshideen Owolabi Akinwale Awere. Berthed finally at the Ikeja High Court.

FRI. 7TH MARCH, 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Gecko around. In the afternoon, went to the Motorways Headquarters Office of the OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC DEFENDER. Spent 3 fruitful hours with the Bisi Akinlade babes. Together, solved a knotty family issue, involving three brothers and three sisters.

FOURTH WEEK FEBRUARY 2008 (25TH - 29TH FEB)

2008-03-06T22:55:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 25TH FEBRUARY 2008
Squib’s out. Cover story – Lawyer In Soup for forgery of High Court Judgment Court. Was at the Magistrate Court Bolade Oshodi for a case. A Brothers Versus Sisters Case. Later was off to the Maximum Security Prison, KiriKiri. There, saw quite a number of the followers of a deity on death row. Thought about the African mind and religion.

TUESDAY 26TH FEBRUARY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Saw officials of KICK AGAINST INDISCIPLINE corps closing the stalls of law books and wears sellers. I wonder at their action. What indiscipline was involved in this case? What environmental nuisance was committed? These sellers are neat, orderly, provide useful services to lawyers and are not vagrants or squatters so why the harassment?

Think the NBA should look into the matter. Incidentally Muiz Banire the Commissioner of Environment is a lawyer. Was he not a practicing lawyer, before? before?
The verdict was out. The verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal on the Atiku Vs Yar’Adua case and the Buhari Vs Yar Adua case. The two petitioners lost out. Judgement broadcast on radio and television… But what for?

WEDNESDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2008
Was at the Lagos State High court. First time in there, for a case this year. Something rather unusual happened today in Honourable Gbajabiamila’s court. The Honourable Judge was held down in chambers sorting out an ugly dispute between one of his registrars, Sokenu, and a legal practitioner.

The lawyer’s grouse? After being made to part with N5,000:00 to Sokenu to obtain a CTC of a ruling or record of proceedings, the same registrar demanded for more money “to perform.” To the annoyance of the lawyer who went to report the registrar to the judge. When His lordship Gbajabiamila J finally came to the open court, he advised and warned lawyers not to give money to his registrars to get their work done.
Doing so, said the honourable judge would only make the registrars more corrupt.” It will be recalled that only last year one other registrar of the court, Akeem was transferred from the court for being involved in a bribery/extortion issue. Ironically, the registrar presently involved in a similar case was as a “Mr. Clean” at that time. Nigeria!

THURSDAY 28TH FEBRUARY 2008
Struggled to reach the Magistrate court, Oyingbo today. In good time. Only to learn that courts were not sitting. Magistrates were off to the valedictory session for late Otunba T.O.S Benson S.A.N. Left for Lagos High Court venue of Benson’s “special session.”
Saw some ‘who’s who’ in the legal profession at the occasion. But was rather busy doing, you guess right, geckoing. In the afternoon arrived the Ministry of Justice, Alausa. Everybody, almost everybody was walking on air, their heads in cloud 9. Why, why not? Four of them state counsel, to wit – Solicitor General Olaide Olayinka, D.P.P, Bola Okikiolu – Ighile, OPD Czarina, Bisi Akinlade and Deputy Director of Civil Litigation – Kudirat Jose, are now Judges – Desgnate. That is, that is, they are the new Lagos State Judges in waiting. The other would be new judges are Mr. Afeez Dabiri, the Chief Registrar and Mr. Lawal Akapo, an age long contender. If the news is true and it appears so true then the Squib wishes our new milords and miladies, a happy and useful stay on the bench.

FRIDAY 29TH FEBRUARY 2008
Was in Chambers, throughout. Geckos sent in reports however. Heard that many judges did not sit. Away to a funeral. Funeral of T.O.S Benson S.A.N; Nigerian First Minister of Information. a.k.a Jagunlabi Adekilumo.
Vanity upon vanity
All, is, vanity

3RD WEEK FEBRUARY 2008 (18TH - 22ND)

2008-02-28T16:13:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 18TH FEBRUARY 2008
The Squib’s out. Cover Story- DE - BRANDING NBA - How Agbakoba’s Zoning formular will kill the NBA. Was at the Ikeja High Court. Normal Monday morning sights. Strolled round the place. Gecko style.

TUESDAY 19TH FEBRUARY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Rushed there from the Super Screen Television Station, Onipanu. Had a case before Obadina J. A judgment in an EFCC matter. The hour long judgment ended in our favour. Oh, but what a judgment! It swung this way, then swung that way - counsel hearts were in their mouths. Couldn’t imagine what the accused person would have felt if he understood all what the honourable judge was saying. Tell you, ignorance is bliss.

WEDNESDAY 20TH FEBRUARY 2008
On my way to Makurdi, Benue State. With two other tigers - for NBA NEC Meeting. Though long a journey (some eleven hours on the road) it was not a bore. As usual with Tigers on road journeys, it was jokes, chatting, and feasting all the way. Arrived Makurdi in the evening only to learn that it was a taxi - less State capital. Phew! Even the Okadas work only till 8.00p.m. interesting?

THURSDAY 21ST FEBRUARY 2008
My day of glory! In the morning, was just a commoner. Before noon became a High Chief, the HU-OR-O TIV- friend of the T.V nation. NBA NEC started 9.00a.m, ended 2.00p.m Up President Agbakoba! Saw aspirants in the August General Elections, particularly the presidential candidates, Dele Adesina SAN and Rotimi Akeredolu SAN (Aketi) taking political strolls and handshakes and making vote winning speeches and giving sweet smiles.
Governor Gabriel Suswan of Benue State, came to the opening session. Lunched the NBA Journal for four million naira! I was happy but wonder whether Government would give, say, the Farmers Union such a hefty amount like that.

Saw Professor Ernest Ojukwu on the floor of the meeting talking enthusiastically about the continuous Legal/Education Scheme of the NBA for lawyers. Good talk but why did the learned law school chieftain adorn his fore-head with his glasses while addressing us. Reminded me of Boy-Alinco. Serious. Interestingly Olisa Agbakoba SAN, president of the NBA smoothly smothered any serious discussion, talkless of adoption of his controversial zoning formula. May be the man smelled big battle in the air. Clearly majority of members are against the promotion of tribalism in the NBA.
A lot of heat generated over what the position of the NBA on Professor Maurice Iwu the much vilified-chairman of the unpopular Independent National Electoral Commission should be. At the end of day it was resolved that the NBA should take what the Great De-Brander called strong advocacy measures against Iwu-whatever that actually means!
Later in the evening with other attendees, went to a restaurant - Father’s Moustache for a buffet. Father’s Moustache? What a name for a restaurant!

FRIDAY 22ND FEBRUARY 2008
Back to Lagos from Makurdi. Incident - less. Praise God!

SECOND WEEK FEBRUARY 2008 (11TH - 15TH )

2008-02-19T23:44:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 11TH FEBRUARY 2008
The Squib’s not out. Reason? The courts are shut down. Shut down since the 4th. Judiciary Workers (judges and magistrates excluded) on strike over poor conditions of service.
Came to the Ikeja High Court. The gates locked up. Learnt that the Federal High Court Lagos and the Court of Appeal opened though.

The Bar Centre was open. Spent some time there chatting with some “rusticated” colleagues. Six days running and the strike is already biting lawyers hard.

Of course, the striking workers were not lame balls too. According to some wiggers ( lawyers), some of the strikers have started paying “courtesy visits” to lawyers’ chambers, not out of the goodness of their hearts but for some sort of “fine bara.” How really true is that?

TUESDAY 12TH FEBRUARY 2008
As a lawyer on forced holiday, worked quietly in my chambers.

WEDNESDAY 13TH FEBRUARY 2008
Was at the Ministry of Justice today. Saw some friends. Ran into Mrs. Tola Rotimi’s mini birthday party. The dishy dame was 400-340+12-129x2years, today. Don’t tell me you are working out the sums. Well, had a nice time at Tola’s office party. Ate some sumptuous cake and danced to X Project of Sierra Naija.
I beg, no harm in dancing to “O ti faya gbe” vibes when you were in the throes of a workers’ strike.
Very late in the evening, heard that the JUSUN Strike had been suspended. Hurray?

THURSDAY 14TH FEBRUARY 2008
At last, the valentine day of love is here. Came to court, expecting work in earnest. Sorry, nothing of such. Only few workers turned up, so cases were adjourned. Couldn’t but help wonder what the workers have actually achieved with the 9 - day strike? Went down to “Great LASU” to attend the Declaration of the New Year of the Judicial Council of the Students’ Union. It was nice seeing Law Students of the varsity (LASU) black and white. In our days, anything, or just about anything went.
Read of the death of Chief Theophilus Benson S.A.N a.k.a ‘Tos’. Tos was more of a politician than a lawyer. The gregarious, flamboyant Ikorodu native passed away at 90, yesterday.

FRIDAY 15TH FEBRUARY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court for a few minutes today. Noticed the place was more lively than it was yesterday. Full normalcy would, hopefully return Monday next.

FOURTH WEEK JANUARY (28TH - 1ST FEB)

2008-02-07T17:14:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 28TH JANUARY, 2008
Squib’s out, Cover Story - Lagos State Police Commissioner (M.D Abubakar) Speaks out.
Was briefly at the Sabo Magistrate Court Yaba, for a case. Presiding Magistrate absent. Sad but normal to come to court only to learn that presiding officers are absent. No notice. No apology. Gods don’t apologise, I guess, at least, to mere mortals. Nonsense! Moved to the Magistrate Court, Ebute - Metta for another case. What a court! The roads that led there, choked, narrow and craggy! Bedlam right, left and centre, even overhead. Of about eight magistrates in the court, only one was present. The others reportedly, had gone off to a workshop, so important that it could only take place on a Monday morning!
What an unfeeling, uncaring judiciary. Fortunately, the only magistrate about entertained my matter, a new case. At the Ebute-Metta, heard quite a few complaints from lawyers who practice regularly there about Magistrate Meigbope. All sorts of complaints.
Incidentally, Meigbope was the same honourable worship who presided over my (clients’) case.

TUESDAY 29TH JANUARY, 2008
Came briefly to the Ikeja High Court. Was shown more used ‘rubbers’ in certain crevices in the NBA Ikeja Secretariat. Someone told me that the Learned Squib article “The Secret Impediment” on the phenomenon only served to encourage more lovers to storm NBA Ikeja Secretariat for performance.
Followed a client down to a citadel of learning. Client was to face a Disciplinary Committee of the citadel. Committee told client ‘Sorry you can’t come with your lawyer to appear before us.”
Committee herself had in attendance on her team at least two lawyers but said client should do without a lawyer. Interesting.
Interesting. But more interesting was it when client asked for permission to go and consult his lawyer whether to face committee alone or not. Permission denied. Most interesting.

WEDNESDAY 30TH JANUARY, 2008
Was at the Bedlam Magistrate Court. Ebute-Metta Magistrate Court, I mean to say. Court did not seat. Could not seat. Registrar absent. Off to ……… workshop! Left for the Ikeja High Court. Saw a number of Law School students moving about. Most appeared well dressed and suitably comported. But heard of a duo who practiced randy jurisprudence, kissing, necking and smooching in broad-day light under and about the “SQUIB ROTUNDA” in the Ikeja High Court Compound A last week.

THURSDAY 31ST JANUARY, 2008
Once again at the EMMC. As ‘bedlamatic’ as ever. Within an hour or so, finished with my business. Came to the Ikeja High Court. By sheer serendipity, heard of the passing away of Hon Justice. A.N Kessington. Heard also that JUSAN workers may embark on a strike next week. Nothing is certain though.

FRIDAY 1ST FEBRUARY, 2008
Didn’t go to any court today. But was at a Police Station (Pedro) and later, at the Ministry of Justice. Partly for lawyers’ business, partly for gecko’s business.

3RD WEEK JANUARY 2008 (14TH -18TH)

2008-01-24T14:44:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 14TH JANUARY 2008
Squib’s out. The first in the year. Cover Story - “FROM GRASS TO S.A.N,” the Rise of Dele Adesina. Was at the Ikeja High Court for a case - my very first in the year. Saw a ‘gaping’ crowd of Law School Students on attachments to the court.

I remember when I was an infant
I remember when I was a rookie
I remember when I was a green horn
I remember when I was a novice!

Did you sing along?
Quite a healthy number of lawyers and litigants in the courts today. The year has just really started for litigation lawyers.
Heard the rumours (faintly) though that JUSAN members would go on nation-wide strike tomorrow. Will the strike really take place in the Lagos Judiciary? When the leadership of the JUSAN is beheaded? Well, tomorrow is just the next day. We’ll see.

TUESDAY 15TH JANUARY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Tied down till 3.55 p.m., doing one case or the other. No JUSAN strike after-all, workers went about duties, most dutifully.
Was at the 4th Chief Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture after the event had ended. But you could trust a Gecko to know what happened even in absentia.
Having come so late, was only fitting that I was one of the last to leave. Just as I was about to leave, a character approached me for “help!” Said he was an out-of-pocket journalist.
Medium? THISDAY!
Nature of Application: Transport Money.
Reason for Application: Missed out from the “settlement”
largesse from the organisers of the lecture.
Well, I felt rather amused. But, since the fellow said he was my colleague, we gave him something. Something is better than nothing. No?

WEDNESDAY 16TH JANUARY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. At noon. Had some papers filed. Nothing much to do in court today.

THURSDAY 17TH JANUARY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Did my case(s) and strolled around - gecko style. Saw the obituary notice of one Muftau(?) Etti, a junior judiciary staff. Served quite a long, long time in the office of the Chief Judge. Loyally, I presumed. Reason why the authorities recognised him? So many others before him had gone without such recognition. May Etti’s soul rest in peace.

FRIDAY 18TH JANUARY 2008
Spent quite a long time at the Maximum Security Prison, today. As a visitor of course.
Got to the Ikeja High Court quite late in the day. Had a brief meeting with a special gecko.

SECOND WEEK JANUARY 2008 (7TH - 11TH)

2008-01-15T14:42:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 7TH JANUARY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court; this very first Monday of the year. The Squib (so sorry to disappoint dear readers), not out. Attended the meeting of the Tigers (NBA Ikeja Branch). Large turn-out of members as usual. Very lively too, as usual. All top tigers appeared to be comedians who missed their calling. You had to be there to know how ‘wise-cracky’ they could be.

TUESDAY 8TH JANUARY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Traffic of lawyers and litigation therein appeared rather light. Could see that the renovation work in the New Court Complex, still very much under way.

WEDNESDAY 9TH JANUARY 2008
Spent less than 60 seconds in the Ikeja High Court today. Just came there to drop off a colleague at the Bar Centre, in the afternoon.

THURSDAY 10TH JANUARY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Spent some time at the Bar Centre. Saw Tigers making preparations for this year’s Fawehinmi Festival; the festival holds 15th January and is the 4th, since 2005, to celebrate Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Nigeria’s foremost social critic and human rights activist’s call to the bar on 15th January, 1965.

Later went to Ikorodu with some un-geckoish colleagues for some real estate business. Were all very well hosted by an NBA Ikorodu branch chieftain, Adebanjo by name. The entertainment included only one of the 3 Ws. But that singular W was thrilling enough. You are dying to know this particular W. Since I am feeling wicked, won’t tell. Hmm, what sweet fish we ate though on top of some cool bottled Bacchus tears, this, courtesy of Femi, one of our own guys.

FRIDAY 11TH JANUARY 2008
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Saw Tigers putting finishing touches to the Fawehinmi festival. Spent some time in the High Court Library.
Had always admired the spider web design of the central ceiling of the library. Saw some folks in the library espying me. The way you take secret looks at Martians. Went later to the Police Headquarters for some Squib business. Met the top gun there.

FIRST WEEK DECEMBER 2007 (3rd - 7th)

2007-12-11T05:42:00.001-08:00

MONDAY 3RD DECEMBER 2007
Squib's out. Cover Story - "The Coup of the Philadelphia 9."
Was at the Lagos High Court.
Saw the floor of the newly refurbished courtroom already cracking up again.

Spent quite a long time in court, before my case was called. Guess life is like that sometimes.

TUESDAY 4TH DECEMBER 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court in the morning hours. Saw that the Tiger branch had recommenced the building of their new secretariat, after a long lay off. Good development. The Bar Center is already wearing a new face, courtesy of the new erections.

WEDNESDAY 5TH DECEMBER 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Noticed that much of the 'Water Fall Division' was still miry. Incidentally, there're a few other places like that where water from airconditioners collect and settle on bare floor. Beats me - how could educated people allow such mess right under their noses?

THURSDAY 6TH DECEMBER 2007
Was the Lagos High Court for a case. Came late for same because of another case. Went to have a bite but in a rather hot atmosphere.

No power (electricity) in the building. Situation has been like that for about three weeks now.

Heard that the Canteen and all such 'tenants' of the judiciary were unplugged from judiciary's power source on the orders of the Chief Judge, to save the judiciary some costs.

Good idea. But there's a better idea - to make the tenants pay for power consumed monthly. Definitely better and neater than disconnecting tenants and asking them to look for alternative or independent power sources.

Boy, it's no fun eating hot 'amala' with tasty 'Orisirisi' or and a 'headmaster' without some cool air blowing at one. And, just want to ask. If judges patronised the Court Canteens, as lawyers do, would the eateries still be disconnected from the judiciary's power source?

Valedictory Session for recently deceased Honourable Justice Thomas Sheteolu Gomes. Gomes .J retired in 1980 and died at 91.

FRIDAY 7TH DECEMBER 2007
Ikeja High Court. Was there for a case. Matter adjourned for absence of judge. Came down to chamber to some back breaking lawyer's labour.

Related links: http://www.learnedsquib.blogspot.com
http://www.squibreaderspavilion.blogspot.com
http://www.squibcoverstory.blogspot.com

Last Week in November 2007 26th -30th)

2007-12-04T23:45:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 26TH NOVEMBER 2007
The Squib’s out. Cover Story – Incredible! Lawyer Detains Lawyer for 4 Days with Ex-parte Application. Was at Bolade Magistrate Court Oshodi. For a case. Trial stalled – prosecutor absent.

TUESDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court. What a day of accidents. Early in the morning, a registry staff was knocked down right in court premises by a “Space Van” bus. The poor woman’s leg was reportedly broken. In the registry a lawyer went down in a faint.

Yet another lawyer fell down on the staircase leading from the Chief Judge’s court.

WEDNESDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 2007
Was at the headquarters of the Lagos State Police Command Ikeja. Wearing its neatest look since a decade ago. The police have lost its ‘Garri’ Market aroma and flavour. Well done new Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Abubakar.

THURSDAY 29TH NOVEMBER 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court for a case. Did my case and that was that. Went to the WATERFALL DIVISION to see whether it had become DRY LAND DIVISION. Alas, only one of the four courts affected had undergone the needed repairs. Oshodi .J’s court. The other courts still had their air conditioners flooding the corridors with water. Bad. Shameful. The situation should change for the better. Now.

FRIDAY 30TH NOVEMBER 2007
Was at the Magistrate Court Sabo. Case couldn’t go on. Magistrate said to be away to a workshop. Of course no prior notice of the magistrate’s absence to lawyers and litigants alike. Should things continue to go on like this?

Shouldn’t there be to each and every court (Magistrate and High Courts) a permanent telephone line, by which enquiries can be made by counsel about their matters in court? Likewise shouldn’t the registrars of courts have responsibilities of reaching over to counsel, especially when it comes to issues about change of fixed date of hearing and other such matters?

Came over to the Ikeja High Court. Geckoed round a bit. Was at the Juvenile Court. What noisy market type environment that court is in. all manner of hawkers gallivant about the place.

Related links: www.learnedsquib.blogspot.com
www.squibcoverstory.blogspot.com
www.squibreaderspavilion.blogspot.com
www.editorspark.blogspot.com

3RD WEEK OF NOVEMBER 2007(19TH -23RD)

2007-11-27T16:18:00.001-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 19TH NOVEMBER 2007
Came very early to Ikeja High Court. Flew off to Abuja. I am on trial. Remember? Trial before the Body of Benchers’ Disciplinary Committee.
Not for stealing, or fighting or any thing of the sort. But I am on trial. For what, nobody knows up till this moment. Complaint yet to be served on me or Daddy 3, my counsel.
Came to the trial place with Daddy 3 and Adekunle Ojo, Former Elekun of Ekunland. Trial for the fifth time in five years post-poned once again.
Panel couldn’t form quorum. Didn’t see my accusers there but saw their shadow. A black shadow. Interesting, you said?

TUESDAY 20TH NOVEMBER 2007
Was at the Lagos High Court for a case at the Election Petition Tribunal. Received news that a fake lawyer was apprehended at the Ikeja Magistrate Court. Guy was caught right in action. Details later.

WEDNESDAY 21ST NOVEMBER 2007
Was at the Lagos High Court. Dashed from one court to the other. As a lawyer. Not as a gecko.

THURSDAY 22ND NOVEMBER 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Saw quite a crowd at Justice Alaba Marsh’s Court. Over a chieftaincy dispute. At the end of the day, Judge ordered that status quo be maintained by all the parties. Later heard a counsel informing some of the litigants that such an order did not mean that an Oba-elect could not go ahead and be crowned! Wonderful.

FRIDAY 23RD NOVEMBER 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court dressed in a blue caftan with blue cap to match. Entered one court that same day. Was asked to remove the cap by presiding judge. Complied. But I now here posit these questions - what law or rule of court forbids a Nigerian citizen from wearing a cap into a court of law? How does the wearing of a cap affront the dignity of a sitting judge?

SECOND WEEK NOVEMBER 2007

2007-11-21T14:39:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 12TH NOVEMBER, 2007
Squib’s out. Cover story - Open Letter to the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly by Squib Editor. Was at the Lagos High Court for election petition matter. Later went to the Lagos State Parliament to distribute the open letter to the honourable members.
Geckos report strange news. Judge {Ayo .J} said to have confessed to “carrying Sacrifices” in the Resource Centre. High Court judge involved in rituals, fetish practices? Must investigate.

TUESDAY 13TH NOVEMBER, 2007
Lagos High Court. Was there. Saw Daddy 3 in preparation for my Abuja case before Disciplinary Committee of the Body of Benchers, Monday next.
Investigated the story that a judge was involved in fetish practices in the Resource Centre. Found it a gross exaggeration.

WEDNESDAY 14TH NOVEMBER, 2007
Lagos High Court. Was there. My case could not go on, courtesy D.P.P. Lagos State’s office. They couldn’t produce further witnesses since December 6, 2006 and after six adjournments. Terrible.
Have you heard of the Philadelphia 10 group in the Lagos Judiciary? Will ‘gist’ you better later on them.

THURSDAY 15TH NOVEMBER, 2007
Ikeja High Court. Was there. Quite dry. Lawyers are not many in court, courtesy the judicial paralysis in the institution caused by the failure, neglect or inability of the Chief Judge to re-assign thousands of non-part heard cases to new judges.

FRIDAY 16TH NOVEMBER, 2007
Lagos High Court. For lawyers’ business. Had an interesting day at the Election Petition Tribunal. Saw Daddy 3. To remind ‘Baba’ of my Abuja case.
As usual, the giant was ready to march to battle. God bless good Daddies.

FIRST WEEK NOVEMBER 2007

2007-11-13T18:24:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

MONDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2007
The Squib’s out. Cover Story entitled - FIGHTING JUDGE, Fit to Continue in office?
Was at the magistrate court Bolade Oshodi; for a case. Later went to the Ikeja High Court for the monthly meeting of the Tigers-NBA Ikeja Branch.
As usual the meeting was well attended with about 150 lawyers present. One of them was ‘Cousin’ Deacon Dele Adesina Esq. DDA was the cynosure of all eyes today. Little wonder. Just last week, announcement came. DDA now a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. Silk. Another Tiger, a silk.
Methinks the last Tiger to be silk was Layi Babatunde. Three or four years ago. Tigers are waiting for ‘proper washing’ from DDA.
Tigers marched, almost full house, to the Chief Judge’s office to protest about the unending delay in the re-assignment of part-heard cases.
Eventually, it was only some exco members and a few other leaders who went in to see the Chief Judge. The outcome? Promises and assurances. As usual.

TUESDAY 6TH NOVEMBER 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court. What a dry place today! Only few judges sitting. Others gone to conference, Judges’ Conference. And, for the whole of the week.
Judges away from primary assignments to attend judges’ conference? Why couldn’t they arrange such a ‘Parapo’ conference during the annual vacation or for a 3 day period, say Thursday - Saturday of the week?
Wonder, wonder, wonder.

WEDNESDAY 7TH NOVEMBER, 2007
Ikeja High Court. Was there for a case. Thank God, judge was not off to Abuja judge’s Conference like many of her peers. Just like yesterday, if not even worse, the Ikeja High Court looked a Ghost Town.
Heard quite an interesting tale about a lady magistrate. Yesterday. Interesting I say, but no telling.
Later in the afternoon, went on gecko mission to Magistrate Court, Ebute Metta. Again, no telling. Yet.

THURSDAY 8TH NOVEMBER, 2007.
Was at the Lagos High Court for a joint meeting of the Lagos, Ikeja and Ikorodu bars over the Law School Fees problem. Law School students now required to pay N220,000.00 as tuition fees aside some other fees jerking it all up to the region of N400,000.00
The NBA must intervene.
In the afternoon was at Great LASU. Alma Mater. Witnessed the swearing in ceremony of the new leaders of the University Students Union. Ahmed Agbabiaka a.k.a. ‘Agba’ the new president.
The university Vice - Chancellor, Professor Hussain also present. Rather curious.

FRIDAY 9TH NOVEMBER, 2007.
No where near the courts today. Can’t say the same for the Geckos. Catch?

LAST WEEK OCTOBER/FIRST WEEK NOVEMBER 2007

2007-11-04T16:36:00.000-08:00

SQUIB DIARY

Monday 29th October 2007
The Squib is out. Cover story - “Shame! High Court Judge Fights Judicial Assistant.” Promises to be a best-seller. Was at the Lagos State Court Igbosere for an election petition matter.

Later came to the Ikeja High Court. Saw Squib selling like hot ‘akara.’

Tuesday 30th October 2007
Was at the Lagos High Court Igbosere. For a case. Did it and left. Must say that the toilets on the corridor to the Court of Appeal, are still in fine condition. Well maintained. The ladies in charge should be commended. Moving motions in that place is no pain at all. Pleasurable really.

Got to Ikeja High Court, to do some checks.

Wednesday 31st October 2007
Was briefly at the Ikeja High Court. However was around enough to see some “Task Force Men” filiming the various shops and stalls in compound ‘B’ of the Ikeja High Court, which truth to tell had become swamped with business centres, food canteens, liquor sellers etc.

Thursday 1st November 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court. In the afternoon, saw bands of armed task force men, overturning various kiosks and stalls in compound ‘B’ of the Ikeja High Court.
The owners and operators of these make-shift constructions could only looked on helplessly.

Heard feeble protestations from the owners that they were no squatters. That they were put in their positions by certain government authorities after paying certain fees.
Noticed that the High Court was ‘dry’. Only few lawyers around. The Lagos State High Courts have turned into a ghost town. Hundreds, if not thousands of non-part heard cases still remain un-assigned to judges. How tragic! Even for freshly filed cases, it’s taking weeks before the RECORDS SECTION takes them to the Administrative Judge to assign them to various judges, even fundamental right actions. Tragically wonderful. Yet the NBA seems unperturbed. Alas!

Friday 2nd November 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Saw that the vendors and kiosk owners temporarily displaced yesterday by KAI Task Force man had bounced back. Very much back in their different places, they were. Was informed of the plight of a barrister, Adebowale Adesina locked up by the police at Pedro Police Station. The lawyer’s offence? Police claimed he was obstructing the execution of a court order. Got there with two other Tigers, Dare Akande {leader} and Biyi. Met lawyer Adesina already released. Seems an interesting matter, though.

Related links: http://www.learnedsquib.blogspot.com

http://www.squibcoverstory.blogspot.com

http://www.squibanticorruption.com

THIRD WEEK OCTOBER 2007

2007-10-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY
Monday 15th October 2007
Squib’s out. Cover story “What’s the worth of a Doctor’s Life, a revisit of the C.O.P. Vs Ibinabo Fiberesima case. Was at the Lagos High Court, specifically Justice Adebisi Kayode-Ogunmekan’s Court. Nice ambience, in the court. Furniture, floor tiles, lighting; air-conditioning, now very okay. Pray they last.

Tuesday 16th October 2007
Was not in court today. Went to the Maximum Security Prison, Kirikiri. As a visitor, of course. Silly. Saw my Dad, today. Daddy 3, I mean. The old guy still pushing himself so hard, even at 76. Old school, hard-as-flint folks always like that. Can you imagine Daddy 3 still burning midnight candles preparing cases? Since he cannot change by himself, I pray, here and now - “Oh God, help touch my Daddy, so that he can slow down. Thank you God for answered prayers.”

Wednesday 17th October 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Saw groups of law students from the Lagos State University {LASU} in some courts. They came to watch proceedings. Learnt from their leaders that the visit was strictly a students’ initiative. Commendable I say.
Noticed a ‘Pool of Siloam’ on the corridor of Justice Obadina’s court. The source of the pool is a leak from one of the pipes taking condensed water away from the air conditioning engines in the court room. Messy, quite messy a pool, growing green moss. Somebody may slip there, one of these days.

Geckos report an incident between a lawyer and his driver at the Court of Appeal. The lawyer’s case was struck out by the court because of his absence. Yet, the lawyer was very much about in the court premises but could not appear in the court room. Reason - his driver bringing his wig and gown did not arrive the court in time. Claimed traffic jam, lawyer was not appeased. Driver got the sack. Instanta. The lawyer? Ladi Williams S.A.N.

Thursday 18th October 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Rather dull in the courts today. Only few lawyers about. The courts are dry these days since the new legal year. Reason is obvious. The High Courts and Magistrate Courts have not been sitting full force. Many courts still undergoing renovation. But not Patricia Etteh style.

Friday 19th October 2007
Wonders shall never end. Heard that at the Lagos High Court, only one judge Toyin Taiwo J. sat today. Heard that many of the others took the day off to be with Honourable Justice Oke-Lawal who was marking her birthday. Incredible? This can’t be true. Ha!

Related links: http://www.editorspark.wordpress.com

http://www.learnedsquib.wordpress.com
http://www.squibcoverstory.wordpress.com

SECOND WEEK OCTOBER 2007

2007-10-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

Monday 8th October 2007

Squib's out. Cover story on the 60 day jailing of one Moroof Ayinde Lateef by Justice M.O. Obadina for contempt of court. The said Lateef would be in prison till 4th December 2007. Hopefully by then, the man who is a claimant before Justice Obadina and had used strong offensive language against the court might have been purged of his contempt.

Was at the magistrate cour, Bolade Oshodi. Neat court room. Neat court compound.

NBA Ikeja branch held its monthly meeting today. As usual with the Tigers, it was a full house, full of excitement. No dull moment. The A.O.B was specially delicious. Hot debates raged to and fro on the powers of the Attorney General of the federation over the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Most Tigers seemed to be in support of the AGF's constitutional superiority over the EFCC.

There was a certain wicked "Too-much-learning-has-made-you-mad" speech by a certain Mr. Squib against another Tiger. When the affected Tiger insisted on the withdrawal of the "offensive language," Mr. Squib retracted it thus: "Too-much-learning-has-not-made-you-mad."

Tuesday 9th October 2007

Was at the Lagos High Court for an election petition matter. Quite a long day. From there at the late hour of 3.00 p.m, moved to Maximum Security Prisons Kirikiri to see a client.

Wednesday 10th October 2007

Was at the Ikeja High Court. Geckoing all about since my case in court did not go on. Thank God, the NBA Ikeja Secretariat toilet came back to life, after about five weeks. Well, only one of the four toilets was now functioning.

Friday 11th October 2007
Public Holiday (Ramadan).

Related links:http://www.learnedsquib.wordpress.com
http://www.squibcoverstory.wordpress.com
http://www.editorspark.wordpress.com

FIRST WEEK OCTOBER 2007

2007-10-16T18:19:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY by Adesina Ogunlana www.squibanticorruption.com

FIRST WEEK OCTOBER 2007
Monday 1st October 2007
Public Holiday. Nigeria’s Independence Day. SQUIB under production.

Tuesday 2nd October 2007
Squib’s out. Cover Story on the investigation of the House of Assembly on the financial accounts of the Lagos State Judiciary.

Was at the Lagos High Court. Received a shock in Honourable Justice Kayode Ogunmekan’s court. The shocker was that less than two weeks after the court’s newly completed floor was completed, it was already cracking up! Attended the special valedictory court session for late Sobo Sowemimo SAN at the foyer of the Lagos High Court.

Wednesday 3rd October 2007
Was at the Lagos High Court for an election petition matter. Otunba Abimbola Adegbesan vs. INEC and Ors. Witnessed an infuriated lawyer (whose car was blocked by one of the new Lagos Judiciary Staff buses at the car park) and a security man. In fact, the bus blocked off no less than six other cars. The infuriated lawyer was mad with the security man for allowing the driver of the bus to park the way he did and walk away! The security man claimed helplessness in the circumstances. Thought the counsel was right and wrong at the same time. Right in his points, but wrong, very wrong in shouting and screaming abuses, even maledictions in the court premises. A classic “Agbero” (motor park tout) protest act. Not good enough comportment for a counsel with over a decade of practice at the bar. You want to know the counsel? Sorry but won’t satisfy your curiosity.

Thursday 4th October 2007
Nowhere near the courts today. Went to Kirikiri. The Max. Met with one or two clients there. While waiting at the rustic reception point to see the clients, witnessed routine extortion of other visitors to the place by warders on security duty there. Applications to see inmates are processed for a fee. Subtle intimidation and cajolery of people were routine by the warders to get some bucks. Are their superiors unaware of this ugly and shameful exercise? At the Lagos High Court, another valedictory session was held for another departed silk – Olatunji Lardner SAN. Learnt that Governor Raji Fashola SAN came to Ikeja High Court to present new vehicles to fourteen (14) magistrates. Lucky chaps. All their other colleagues had collected their own cars about two years ago. Well, better late than never. Say?

Friday 5th October 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Was in Justice J.O.K Oyewole’s court. Saw how the court freed a young woman prosecuted by the EFCC on an 8 count charge. Hardly had the judge pronounced her not guilty that the stunned girl bolted out of the court room in unbelieving joy. Well, can you blame her? Certainly it was no easy road to freedom.

LAST WEEK IN SEPTEMBER 2007

2007-10-12T00:34:00.000-07:00

SQUIB DIARY By Adesina Ogunlana www.squibanticorruption.com

Monday 24th September 2007
The Squib’s out. The first in the year. CoverStory: Tiger’s New Legal Year 2007 statement.
Was at the Ikeja High Court and saw many lawyers moving about like sheep without a shepherd.
Not only were many courts undergoing belated renovation, virtually all the judges have been reposted from their divisions. The effect? Confusion. Not a few wondered at the timing of the renovation and transfers.
To worsen things, all non-part heard matters in their scores – if not hundreds, were sent back to the Records Section for re-assignment by the Chief Judge. Of course no reassignment has been done and the earliest assurance of that being done according to Records Section is 2-4 weeks. Wonderful! What a mess, what a disaster really in terms of delaying and clogging the wheels of justice administration.

In line with the tradition here of scorning the Bar, the authorities never deemed it fit to contact, communicate with, not to talk of consulting the bar on these developments. First class geckos informed the Squib that one of the apparatchiks of the present regime, Ayo Odugbesan, a Deputy Chief Registrar pointedly told some bar leaders who came for a meeting with the Chief Judge a few weeks ago, that the Alabi administration had no need to inform the bar about any changes or developments in the Lagos Judiciary.
Wow! Bravo!
Now we know why we are where we are today.

Tuesday 25th September 2007
Rainy Day. Was Briefly at the Ikeja High Court. Left for the Ministry of Justice, specifically to the Directorate of Public Prosecution. To see the D.P.P you go there 2.00 – 4.00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Got there well within the hours stipulated this day but couldn’t get to see the official after about a fifty minute wait. By the way, there is a new D.P.P now, no longer Efunbowale Gbadebo. It’s now Adebola Okikiolu-Ighile. The same one. The former D.P.P. Bless you.

Wednesday 26th September 2007
Was at Ikeja High Court. Had the misfortune of visiting the holding cell in the court’s premises. Oh what strong, foul odour fills the whole place. Overpowering stench, yet detainees and warders stay in there. Unbelievable. Serious health crisis imminent if that place is not cleaned up and fumigated immediately. Have been seeing some brand new Kia vehicles, about twenty in the court’s compound. Who could they be for? Magistrates?

In the afternoon, got to the lair of the Ikeja Tigers, the Bar Centre. Couldn’t use the convenience there. No water! Seems this “No water” situation is now a recurring decimal. Can’t the problem be permanently solved?

Thursday 27th September 2007
Was at the Court of Appeal Lagos. Usual lawyer’s work. What was unusual was that after the appeal was dismissed as prayed for – both appellant and respondents were happy and embraced one another and thanked the counsel too!
One day you may hear the full gist of the rather curious case involving a champertous old lawyer.

Friday 28th September 2007
Was at the Ikeja High Court. Briefly. So quiet.

Squib Welcome Message...

2007-03-30T05:19:00.001-07:00

Hi everybody...this is the first post of Squib; a 'gecko' who from his 'perch' has a bird's eye view of happenings on the legal scene in the land of Naija and makes his report. We hope to get your comments as we go along!!

Squib Welcome Message...

2007-03-30T05:19:00.000-07:00