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By: Emmanuel Onwubiko

 

Camillus Eboh is one of the most experienced Nigerian journalists still practicing after over two decades since he began at The Guardian newspaper of Nigeria which is the indisputable flagship of newspapering in Nigeria. This gentleman now works for a foreign news agency known as Reuters.

 

Last May, Camilus Eboh did a report on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited whereby he disclosed that Nigeria spent more than 11.35 trillion naira ($25 billion) on fixing the country’s three moribund refineries in the past 10 years, the Ninth session of the National parliament said in a report, calling for a forensic audit of the matter.

 

Despite the huge amounts spent to rehabilitate the refineries, Reuters reported that they were producing at less than 30% capacity, the lower house of parliament said late on Tuesday. This has kept the country reliant on fuel imports, which it subsidies to keep prices low.

 

The report came as state oil firm NNPC Ltd on Wednesday hiked petrol prices to as high as 557 naira ($1.21) per litre, from 189 naira, days after new President Bola Tinubu said fuel subsidies would be scrapped.

 

Tinubu has inherited a myriad of problems, including low economic growth, high public debts, double-digit inflation and militant activity.

 

The lawmakers in the immediate past dispensation transmitted  their recommendation to new members and government.

 

The foreign news agency further observed that NNPC has been working to revamp the refineries, which were shut down entirely in 2021 and produced little or no fuel over the past decade. The management of the NNPCL said it has begun far reaching reforms to make the company a successful and profitable business rather than the persistent bad name it had garnered in the past before its transformation to the present entity known as the NNPCL.

 

Empirical evidence seem to show that the management has indeed begun the moves to achieve the stated objective of turning the NNPCL around into a transparently governed entity and a profitable company at that.

 

The recent release of the 2023 Audited Financial Statement (AFS) by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), which declared a net profit of N3.3 trillion, is not just a financial milestone—it is a testament to a seismic shift in corporate governance, transparency, and accountability within Nigeria’s petroleum industry. The transformation from the old Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to NNPCL, under the strategic leadership of Group Managing Director Mele Kyari, marks a new era for the organization. This new era signals a decisive departure from the opaque and inefficient practices that once plagued the former NNPC.

 

To appreciate the significance of NNPCL’s current achievements, reflecting on the dark days of the old NNPC is essential. For decades, the NNPC was synonymous with corruption, inefficiency, and a lack of accountability. Despite its vast resources and strategic importance to Nigeria’s economy, the corporation was notorious for its inability to operate transparently. When they were released, financial statements were often incomplete or unreliable, and the public had little to no insight into the corporation’s inner workings. This lack of transparency bred corruption, mismanagement, and a loss of public trust.

 

The NNPC’s operations were shrouded in secrecy, with no clear accountability to the Nigerian people. The absence of credible financial reporting allowed corrupt practices to fester unchecked. Revenue leakages, questionable contracts, and unaccounted oil sales became the norm, leading to massive losses for the Nigerian economy. The corporation posted losses yearly, with no clear strategy for turning the tide. By 2018, the NNPC had recorded a staggering loss of N803 billion, underscoring the depth of its financial crisis.

 

This culture of opacity extended beyond financial reporting. The NNPC’s dealings were often conducted behind closed doors, with little regard for due process. The corporation’s failure to engage with stakeholders, including the Nigerian public, further eroded its credibility. For many Nigerians, the NNPC became a symbol of the worst excesses of public sector corruption and mismanagement.

 

The transition from the old NNPC to the NNPCL, facilitated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, has been nothing short of revolutionary. The PIA provided the legal framework for the transformation of the NNPC into a commercially oriented and profit-driven entity, with clear mandates for transparency, accountability, and efficiency. This transition was not merely a change in nomenclature; it represented a fundamental shift in the corporation’s operational philosophy and governance structure.

 

One of the most significant changes introduced by the PIA was the requirement for NNPCL to publish its audited financial statements annually. This provision has been a game-changer, compelling the corporation to adopt global best practices in financial reporting. For the first time in its history, NNPCL began to operate with the level of transparency expected of a publicly traded company. The regular release of its financial statements has not only enhanced public trust but also provided critical insights into the corporation’s financial health and performance.

 

The leadership of Mele Kyari, who assumed office as Group Managing Director in 2019, has been instrumental in driving these reforms. Kyari brought a clear vision for transforming NNPCL into a world-class energy company, focused on profitability, efficiency, and accountability. Under his stewardship, NNPCL has implemented far-reaching reforms aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and maximizing revenue. The results have been nothing short of remarkable.

 

NNPCL’s 2023 financial performance is a testament to the success of these reforms. The corporation posted a net profit of N3.3 trillion, representing a 28% increase over the previous year’s profit of N2.5 trillion. This impressive financial performance marks the highest profit ever recorded by the corporation since its inception 46 years ago. Such a turnaround would have been unthinkable in the days of the old NNPC, where losses were the norm, and profitability seemed out of reach.

 

The increase in profit is particularly noteworthy given the challenging operational and economic environment in which NNPCL operates. Despite these challenges, the corporation has managed to enhance its productivity, optimize its resources, and deliver value to its shareholders. The declaration of a final dividend of N2.1 trillion, approved by the shareholders, is further evidence of NNPCL’s commitment to delivering tangible benefits to its stakeholders.

 

Central to NNPCL’s success has been the strategic leadership of Mele Kyari and the NNPCL Board, chaired by Chief Pius Akinyelure. The Board’s commitment to good corporate governance, transparency, and accountability has been critical in securing shareholder confidence and driving the corporation’s financial performance. Under Kyari’s leadership, NNPCL has adopted a proactive approach to governance, with a focus on institutionalizing transparency across all levels of the organization.

 

This commitment to transparency is evident in the corporation’s approach to financial reporting. NNPCL’s financial statements are now prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), ensuring that they meet global standards of accuracy and completeness. This level of transparency is unprecedented in the history of the corporation and has been instrumental in restoring public trust.

 

Moreover, NNPCL has taken significant steps to enhance its operational efficiency. The corporation has implemented cost-cutting measures, streamlined its operations, and invested in technology to improve its processes. These efforts have not only reduced operational costs but have also improved the corporation’s overall productivity. The result has been a more agile, responsive, and profitable organization.

 

While the progress made by NNPCL is commendable, it is essential to recognize that the journey toward sustained transparency and accountability is ongoing. The corporation must remain vigilant against any attempts to revert to the practices of the past that nearly destroyed the NNPC. The dark days of corruption, inefficiency, and mismanagement must never be allowed to return.

 

The history of the old NNPC serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of complacency. The culture of secrecy that once pervaded the corporation created an environment where corruption could thrive. Financial leakages, dubious contracts, and unaccounted revenues were the order of the day, with little to no accountability. This culture not only undermined the corporation’s financial performance but also eroded public trust in its ability to manage Nigeria’s vast petroleum resources effectively.

 

To avoid repeating these mistakes, NNPCL must continue to strengthen its capacity for transparency and accountability. The corporation must institutionalize the reforms it has implemented, ensuring that they become deeply embedded in its operational culture. This includes maintaining the highest standards of financial reporting, adhering to global best practices, and engaging openly with stakeholders.

 

One of the key challenges facing NNPCL as it moves forward is ensuring that its commitment to transparency and accountability becomes a permanent feature of its operations, rather than just a temporary shift. To achieve this, NNPCL must continue to invest in its governance structures, processes, and human capital.

 

The corporation should focus on continuously improving its financial reporting processes to ensure that its statements are accurate, complete, and timely. This will require ongoing investment in technology and training to enhance the capacity of its finance and accounting teams. By maintaining high standards of financial reporting, NNPCL can ensure that its operations remain transparent and accountable.

 

Good corporate governance is the foundation of transparency and accountability. NNPCL should consistently uphold the principles of good governance, including integrity, fairness, and accountability. This requires the active engagement of the Board and management in setting the corporation’s strategic direction, monitoring performance, and ensuring that all decisions are made in the best interests of the shareholders and the Nigerian people.

 

Institutionalizing transparency across all levels of the organization is also essential. This involves adopting open and transparent procurement processes, ensuring that contracts are awarded based on merit, and preventing conflicts of interest. By embedding transparency in its operations, NNPCL can reduce the risk of corruption and enhance its reputation as a trustworthy and accountable organization.

 

The commitment to transparency must also extend beyond internal operations to include active engagement with external stakeholders. This includes regular communication with the public, investors, regulators, and other stakeholders about the corporation’s activities, performance, and plans. By fostering open dialogue, NNPCL can build trust and ensure that its operations align with the expectations of its stakeholders.

 

Finally, NNPCL must promote a culture of integrity within the organization. This requires a clear commitment from the leadership to uphold ethical standards and hold individuals accountable for their actions. By fostering a culture of integrity, NNPCL can ensure that its employees are committed to doing what is right, even in the face of challenges.

 

The transformation of NNPC into NNPCL represents a significant achievement for Nigeria’s petroleum industry. However, the journey is far from over. NNPCL must continue to build on its successes, deepen its reforms, and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and efficiency. The corporation’s ability to sustain its profitability, achieve its production targets, and deliver value to its stakeholders will depend on its commitment to these principles.

 

As NNPCL looks to the future, it must remain focused on its mission of securing Nigeria’s energy future while contributing to the nation’s economic development. The corporation’s ability to achieve these goals will require continued strategic leadership, sound corporate governance, and a relentless commitment to transparency and accountability.

 

Emmanuel Onwubiko is the Head of HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and was NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA.NNPCL TURNING A NEW LEAF

By: Emmanuel Onwubiko

 

Camillus Eboh is one of the most experienced Nigerian journalists still practicing after over two decades since he began at The Guardian newspaper of Nigeria which is the indisputable flagship of newspapering in Nigeria. This gentleman now works for a foreign news agency known as Reuters.

 

Last May, Camilus Eboh did a report on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited whereby he disclosed that Nigeria spent more than 11.35 trillion naira ($25 billion) on fixing the country’s three moribund refineries in the past 10 years, the Ninth session of the National parliament said in a report, calling for a forensic audit of the matter.

 

Despite the huge amounts spent to rehabilitate the refineries, Reuters reported that they were producing at less than 30% capacity, the lower house of parliament said late on Tuesday. This has kept the country reliant on fuel imports, which it subsidies to keep prices low.

 

The report came as state oil firm NNPC Ltd on Wednesday hiked petrol prices to as high as 557 naira ($1.21) per litre, from 189 naira, days after new President Bola Tinubu said fuel subsidies would be scrapped.

 

Tinubu has inherited a myriad of problems, including low economic growth, high public debts, double-digit inflation and militant activity.

 

The lawmakers in the immediate past dispensation transmitted  their recommendation to new members and government.

 

The foreign news agency further observed that NNPC has been working to revamp the refineries, which were shut down entirely in 2021 and produced little or no fuel over the past decade. The management of the NNPCL said it has begun far reaching reforms to make the company a successful and profitable business rather than the persistent bad name it had garnered in the past before its transformation to the present entity known as the NNPCL.

 

Empirical evidence seem to show that the management has indeed begun the moves to achieve the stated objective of turning the NNPCL around into a transparently governed entity and a profitable company at that.

 

The recent release of the 2023 Audited Financial Statement (AFS) by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), which declared a net profit of N3.3 trillion, is not just a financial milestone—it is a testament to a seismic shift in corporate governance, transparency, and accountability within Nigeria’s petroleum industry. The transformation from the old Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to NNPCL, under the strategic leadership of Group Managing Director Mele Kyari, marks a new era for the organization. This new era signals a decisive departure from the opaque and inefficient practices that once plagued the former NNPC.

 

To appreciate the significance of NNPCL’s current achievements, reflecting on the dark days of the old NNPC is essential. For decades, the NNPC was synonymous with corruption, inefficiency, and a lack of accountability. Despite its vast resources and strategic importance to Nigeria’s economy, the corporation was notorious for its inability to operate transparently. When they were released, financial statements were often incomplete or unreliable, and the public had little to no insight into the corporation’s inner workings. This lack of transparency bred corruption, mismanagement, and a loss of public trust.

 

The NNPC’s operations were shrouded in secrecy, with no clear accountability to the Nigerian people. The absence of credible financial reporting allowed corrupt practices to fester unchecked. Revenue leakages, questionable contracts, and unaccounted oil sales became the norm, leading to massive losses for the Nigerian economy. The corporation posted losses yearly, with no clear strategy for turning the tide. By 2018, the NNPC had recorded a staggering loss of N803 billion, underscoring the depth of its financial crisis.

 

This culture of opacity extended beyond financial reporting. The NNPC’s dealings were often conducted behind closed doors, with little regard for due process. The corporation’s failure to engage with stakeholders, including the Nigerian public, further eroded its credibility. For many Nigerians, the NNPC became a symbol of the worst excesses of public sector corruption and mismanagement.

 

The transition from the old NNPC to the NNPCL, facilitated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, has been nothing short of revolutionary. The PIA provided the legal framework for the transformation of the NNPC into a commercially oriented and profit-driven entity, with clear mandates for transparency, accountability, and efficiency. This transition was not merely a change in nomenclature; it represented a fundamental shift in the corporation’s operational philosophy and governance structure.

 

One of the most significant changes introduced by the PIA was the requirement for NNPCL to publish its audited financial statements annually. This provision has been a game-changer, compelling the corporation to adopt global best practices in financial reporting. For the first time in its history, NNPCL began to operate with the level of transparency expected of a publicly traded company. The regular release of its financial statements has not only enhanced public trust but also provided critical insights into the corporation’s financial health and performance.

 

The leadership of Mele Kyari, who assumed office as Group Managing Director in 2019, has been instrumental in driving these reforms. Kyari brought a clear vision for transforming NNPCL into a world-class energy company, focused on profitability, efficiency, and accountability. Under his stewardship, NNPCL has implemented far-reaching reforms aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and maximizing revenue. The results have been nothing short of remarkable.

 

NNPCL’s 2023 financial performance is a testament to the success of these reforms. The corporation posted a net profit of N3.3 trillion, representing a 28% increase over the previous year’s profit of N2.5 trillion. This impressive financial performance marks the highest profit ever recorded by the corporation since its inception 46 years ago. Such a turnaround would have been unthinkable in the days of the old NNPC, where losses were the norm, and profitability seemed out of reach.

 

The increase in profit is particularly noteworthy given the challenging operational and economic environment in which NNPCL operates. Despite these challenges, the corporation has managed to enhance its productivity, optimize its resources, and deliver value to its shareholders. The declaration of a final dividend of N2.1 trillion, approved by the shareholders, is further evidence of NNPCL’s commitment to delivering tangible benefits to its stakeholders.

 

Central to NNPCL’s success has been the strategic leadership of Mele Kyari and the NNPCL Board, chaired by Chief Pius Akinyelure. The Board’s commitment to good corporate governance, transparency, and accountability has been critical in securing shareholder confidence and driving the corporation’s financial performance. Under Kyari’s leadership, NNPCL has adopted a proactive approach to governance, with a focus on institutionalizing transparency across all levels of the organization.

 

This commitment to transparency is evident in the corporation’s approach to financial reporting. NNPCL’s financial statements are now prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), ensuring that they meet global standards of accuracy and completeness. This level of transparency is unprecedented in the history of the corporation and has been instrumental in restoring public trust.

 

Moreover, NNPCL has taken significant steps to enhance its operational efficiency. The corporation has implemented cost-cutting measures, streamlined its operations, and invested in technology to improve its processes. These efforts have not only reduced operational costs but have also improved the corporation’s overall productivity. The result has been a more agile, responsive, and profitable organization.

 

While the progress made by NNPCL is commendable, it is essential to recognize that the journey toward sustained transparency and accountability is ongoing. The corporation must remain vigilant against any attempts to revert to the practices of the past that nearly destroyed the NNPC. The dark days of corruption, inefficiency, and mismanagement must never be allowed to return.

 

The history of the old NNPC serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of complacency. The culture of secrecy that once pervaded the corporation created an environment where corruption could thrive. Financial leakages, dubious contracts, and unaccounted revenues were the order of the day, with little to no accountability. This culture not only undermined the corporation’s financial performance but also eroded public trust in its ability to manage Nigeria’s vast petroleum resources effectively.

 

To avoid repeating these mistakes, NNPCL must continue to strengthen its capacity for transparency and accountability. The corporation must institutionalize the reforms it has implemented, ensuring that they become deeply embedded in its operational culture. This includes maintaining the highest standards of financial reporting, adhering to global best practices, and engaging openly with stakeholders.

 

One of the key challenges facing NNPCL as it moves forward is ensuring that its commitment to transparency and accountability becomes a permanent feature of its operations, rather than just a temporary shift. To achieve this, NNPCL must continue to invest in its governance structures, processes, and human capital.

 

The corporation should focus on continuously improving its financial reporting processes to ensure that its statements are accurate, complete, and timely. This will require ongoing investment in technology and training to enhance the capacity of its finance and accounting teams. By maintaining high standards of financial reporting, NNPCL can ensure that its operations remain transparent and accountable.

 

Good corporate governance is the foundation of transparency and accountability. NNPCL should consistently uphold the principles of good governance, including integrity, fairness, and accountability. This requires the active engagement of the Board and management in setting the corporation’s strategic direction, monitoring performance, and ensuring that all decisions are made in the best interests of the shareholders and the Nigerian people.

 

Institutionalizing transparency across all levels of the organization is also essential. This involves adopting open and transparent procurement processes, ensuring that contracts are awarded based on merit, and preventing conflicts of interest. By embedding transparency in its operations, NNPCL can reduce the risk of corruption and enhance its reputation as a trustworthy and accountable organization.

 

The commitment to transparency must also extend beyond internal operations to include active engagement with external stakeholders. This includes regular communication with the public, investors, regulators, and other stakeholders about the corporation’s activities, performance, and plans. By fostering open dialogue, NNPCL can build trust and ensure that its operations align with the expectations of its stakeholders.

 

Finally, NNPCL must promote a culture of integrity within the organization. This requires a clear commitment from the leadership to uphold ethical standards and hold individuals accountable for their actions. By fostering a culture of integrity, NNPCL can ensure that its employees are committed to doing what is right, even in the face of challenges.

 

The transformation of NNPC into NNPCL represents a significant achievement for Nigeria’s petroleum industry. However, the journey is far from over. NNPCL must continue to build on its successes, deepen its reforms, and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and efficiency. The corporation’s ability to sustain its profitability, achieve its production targets, and deliver value to its stakeholders will depend on its commitment to these principles.

 

As NNPCL looks to the future, it must remain focused on its mission of securing Nigeria’s energy future while contributing to the nation’s economic development. The corporation’s ability to achieve these goals will require continued strategic leadership, sound corporate governance, and a relentless commitment to transparency and accountability.

 

Emmanuel Onwubiko is the Head of HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and was NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA.

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French Embassy Collaborates NIFS to Position Nigerian Creative Sector for International Business at MIPCOM Cannes

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French Embassy Collaborates NIFS to Position Nigerian Creative Sector for International Business at MIPCOM Cannes—-In a remarkable step for Nigeria’s creative sector, the French Embassy, in collaboration with the Nigerian International Film and TV Summit (NIFS), sponsored over 20 Nigerian creatives to the prestigious MIPCOM event in Cannes.

 

This delegation included a talented mix of Nigerian film writers, producers, audiovisual technologists, and film business entrepreneurs, representing the strength and diversity of Nigeria’s burgeoning Film and TV industry.

 

At the forefront of this delegation was the Nigerian Pavilion, a dynamic hub for showcasing Nigeria’s rich storytelling culture and fostering high-level discussions with global media and entertainment leaders. The Nigerian delegation’s engagements at MIPCOM opened up valuable new opportunities, reinforcing Nigeria’s growing presence in the international film and television landscape and highlighting the unique narratives Nigerian creators bring to global audiences.

 

Ijeoma Onah, the CEO/Founder of NIFS, and the co-leader of the Nigerian delegation with Mr Christophe Pecot, Audiovisual Attaché of the French Embassy in Nigeria, said that “This experience has been transformative for Nigeria’s creative industry, expanding business relationships with the French and global community through this strategic partnership with the French Embassy, and further affirming the role of collaboration in amplifying the reach of Nigerian storytelling on the global stage.”

 

Speaking further she said, “Indeed we are excited with the level of partnership from the French Embassy in supporting film and TV professionals with a Nigerian Pavilion at the largest global content distribution market MIPCOM Cannes. Through this partnership, our resolve to continue to drive international business for local Nigerian companies has been reinforced and with the Nigerian International Film and TV Summit we remain committed to the huge international revenue opportunities through licensing of local programs because this market and its outcome will definitely elevate and transform the dynamics of international distribution for local companies in Nigeria.”

 

She expressed gratitude to the French Embassy for collaboration and effective partnership in ensuring that the Nigerian delegation shone like a thousand stars in the Cannes festival firmament. “Thanks to the generous support and partnership of the French Embassy which made this possible. The Nigerian Pavilion became a space of impactful exchange, connecting Nigeria’s industry innovators with international stakeholders.” Our green white green colour was all over the place, proclaiming the beauty and flourish of our country, in the realm of entertainment, creativity, innovation, and technology.”

 

Christophe Pecot, highlighted the Embassy’s commitment to fostering partnerships within the Nigerian audiovisual sector. “My job is to build and implement cooperation between Nigeria and the French audiovisual industry, which is why we’re here at Cannes for MIPCOM,” Pecot explained. Co-leading a group of about 20 Nigerian companies Pecot underscores the goal of creating international opportunities. “We’re connecting Nigerian creators with global broadcasters, aiming to help them bring their content to audiences worldwide,” he added.

 

For Colette Otusheso, CEO, Accelerate Group, MIPCOM has provided a rewarding experience in strengthening Nigerian contents’ global reach. “The Nigerian Pavilion has been incredibly supportive,” Otusheso shared. “With a dedicated space for meetings, we’ve been able to explore strategic partnerships with production companies worldwide. It’s been encouraging to see filmmakers, studios, and distributors, actively seeking the kind of content we have,” she noted – reflecting the growing demand for Nigerian storytelling on the world stage.

 

Ferdinand Ademefe, CEO, Magic Carpet Studios, emphasizes the importance of international collaboration and shared inspiration. “As someone passionate about film and animation, MIPCOM offers us a view of what’s possible globally,” he stated. “From Europe, to Asia, to America, this platform allows us to see the diversity of creative expression and to position Nigeria as an essential part of that global dialogue.”

Over the course of four days, participants engaged in networking, knowledge sharing, and collaborative efforts aimed at pushing Nigerian content to the global forefront. Industry professionals, TV catalogue right holders came together to explore new opportunities and address the challenges facing the industry.

 

Through MIPCOM, Nigerian audiovisual leaders and creators are not only amplifying their voices but are also forging pathways for collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange. This presence shows Nigeria’s expanding role in the global entertainment industry and its potential to be a hub for content that resonates with audiences everywhere.

 

The event underscored the importance of nurturing and expanding Nigeria’s position in global content markets, as conversations and partnerships established at MIPCOM Cannes pave the way for increased opportunities for Nigerian creators and productions. With newfound partnerships and future-focused dialogues, Nigeria is poised to make significant strides in the film, TV, and audiovisual sectors worldwide.

 

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Ekiti lawyers drag Nwite to NJC over alleged controversial rulings, judicial rascality

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Ekiti lawyers drag Nwite to NJC over alleged controversial rulings, judicial rascality… as Kekere-Ekun declares zero tolerance for conflicting court orders

 

Scores of lawyers under the aegis of Ekiti Lawyers Vanguard for Transparency have petitioned the Chairman of the National Judicial Council, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, against Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja over his alleged controversial rulings and other misconducts.

The legal practitioners further accused Nwite of bias and desecration of the hallowed temple of justice with what they described as unjust conducts, maintaining that the judge’s actions were capable of bringing Nigeria to great disrepute if they are not curbed.

The lawyers claimed that Justice Nwite’s alleged unjust rulings were embarrassments to the body of benchers, expressing dismay that Nwite, who restrained the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from probing Oluwaseun Odewale, a former aide to ex-Governor Kayode Fayemi and Ariyo Oyinkolawa Adesola and shielded them from prosection on their alleged role in corruption cases, was the same judge who issued a controversial bench warrant for the arrest of a former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, despite the pendency of an order of a State High Court stopping his arrest and prosecution.

The petition was addressed to the Chairman of the NJC and signed by 10 lawyers, including Ademiloye Oladotun, Balogun Adeyemi, Fadeshola Alice, Ola-Ojo Samuel, Olayinka Ibrahim, Adebayo Joel, Akintoye Bayonle, Ogundare Kayode, Adaramola Olakunle and Igandan Olawunmi, on behalf of 54 lawyers, who are members of the Vanguard.

It is entitled: “Invitation to Probe Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, for Manifest Judicial Rascality, Inconsistent Rulings, Bias, Conducts Capable of Causing Public Distrust in the Judiciary, Injustice and Inappropriate Use of the Court.”

Demanding urgent intervention of the NJC, the lawyers alleged that justice had become a commodity in favour of the highest bidder whenever cases were brought before Nwite.

The protest letter, which was received by the office of the NJC on October 14, 2024, stated, “It is no longer noble or golden to hold our peace or maintain silence in a situation capable of destroying the very tenet and fabric that holds the foundation of our justice system. To maintain muteness in a time as this is to condone sacrilege and aid things capable of bringing the nation to great disrepute.

“Flowing from the above, we humbly invite the NJC to take a critical look at the conduct of Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, FCT-Abuja. In recent actions and decisions made by Justice Emeka Nwite in the courtroom, we have observed a clear pattern of behaviour that suggests lack of impartiality, adherence to the rule of law, adherence to court order, judicial fidelity, and fairness. This perception not only undermines the integrity of the judicial system but also erodes public confidence in our courts and breeds dissatisfaction among the litigants and general public.

“It is our great concern that Justice Emeka Nwite has unfortunately become notorious in delivering inconsistent judgments against the spirit of the age-long principle of stare decisis, and has often been alleged to be a pliable tool in the hands of corrupt individuals and overzealous institutions in the abuse of executive and judicial powers. Corrupt individuals have also found his court to be a safe haven and escape route from the long arm of justice. More unfortunate is the fact that justice is now becoming a commodity to the highest bidder…

“It is shocking that the same Justice Emeka Nwite who restrained the EFCC from probing Oluwaseun Odewale, and Ariyo Oyinkolawa Adesola is the same judge who issued a controversial bench warrant for the arrest of the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, despite the pendency of an order of a State High Court stopping his arrest and prosecution. It is unjustifiable in the circumstance that a judge would reprobate and approbate; issue an order stopping EFCC from probing Adewale of corruption and on the other hand, issue a bench warrant for the arrest of someone that has a valid court order stopping his arrest and prosecution.

“It is a basic principle in law that where a restraining order is issued against any agency from arresting or prosecuting an individual, the only remedy for such an order is either to be vacated by the same court which gave it or on an appeal, unturned by a higher court. Thousands of applicants have obtained such orders and remain binding until vacated or upturned. So, while the court restraining order subsists, the status quo is maintained and nothing shall be done to flout it.”

“Albeit, Justice Emeka Nwite had the knowledge of the existing order, he neither sought its enforcement, vacation nor to be upturned by the higher court, but he went ahead brazenly to give an order of arrest which violated and flouted the existing valid court order but did to the contrary to favour ex- Governor Kayode Fayemi’s aides. This is a double standard, my Lord,” the lawyers told Kekere-Ekun.

They also recalled how Nwite granted an exparte application to the Police to arrest Edison Ehie, the Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, and five others over their alleged complicity in the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly, expressing dismay that the judge later set aside the order after being exposed.

The legal luminaries said, “This strange practice and recalcitrant behaviour of Justice Emeka Nwite has brought shame to the hallowed temple of justice and subjected our judicial system to public ridicule. It has also continued to erode the confidence of the people in the abilities of the Court to give consistent and nonconflicting rulings in the same matters before it and worse still, Justice Emeka Nwite is pushing a dangerous idea that the order of court should not be obeyed.

“The needless bias, conflicting court orders, and flouting of subsisting court order or abuse of it by the Honourable Justice portend a worrisome and dangerous precedent. As Senator Elizabeth Warren would say, ‘When judges allow their biases to affect their judgments, they undermine the very foundation of justice.'”

Meanwhile, the CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has declared zero-tolerance for judicial rascality.

The CJN expressed concern over many conflicting orders emanating from different courts and has reportedly ordered investigation of FCT, Rivers judges.

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