Judiciary

Murder: Complainant Opposes Attorney General’s Approved Plea Bargain

Published

2 months ago

December 3, 2024

By Adenike Lawal

In a significant turn of events in a murder case, Oluwatosin Onamade, the complainant, has strongly opposed a plea bargain agreement approved by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice.

The agreement involves five defendants accused of murdering Onamade’s assistant in Ikorodu, Lagos State.

The case, which has attracted widespread attention due to its violent nature, raises concerns about the fairness of legal processes in the region.

During a court session on Monday, Onamade voiced his dissatisfaction with the plea bargain negotiations, which he claims took place without his involvement.

Speaking before Justice Hakeem Oshodi at the Lagos High Court in Ikeja, Onamade expressed his frustration at not being consulted during discussions between the Attorney-General of Lagos State, Lawal Pedro (SAN), and the defendants.

His objections underscore concerns about transparency and the perceived lack of fairness in the handling of the case.

The five defendants—Atunrase Sodiq Omolabi, Shittu Michael Olawale, Olaide Opeifa, Olanrewaju Adebiyi (also known as Maja), and Jamiu Omosanya (known as Orobo)—are facing serious charges, including murder and attempted murder, in relation to the death of Ifeanyi Etunmuse at Western Funeral Home, owned by Onamade.

It is also alleged that the defendants caused severe injuries to Femi Onamade, Oluwatosin’s brother.

When the defendants were first arraigned, they all pleaded not guilty to a comprehensive seven-count indictment, which includes charges of murder, attempted murder, grievous bodily harm, willful damage to property, unlawful society (cultism), breach of peace, and conspiracy to commit a felony.

At the recent hearing, prosecutor Michael Adewoye informed Justice Oshodi that he had received an application for a plea bargain from the defense counsel representing four of the defendants.

This application, Adewoye said, had already been approved by the Attorney-General.

He also noted that a formal letter confirming the approval had been sent to the defense counsel, but the specific terms of the agreement would be discussed at a later date.

Defense attorney Olanrewaju Ajanaku confirmed receipt of the plea bargain application, adding that terms of the agreement would be negotiated with the prosecution.

Meanwhile, Mahmood Adesina (SAN), representing one defendant, requested that the trial continue without delay.

Justice Oshodi acknowledged Onamade’s commitment to seeking justice but pointed out that his authority as a judge did not extend to overturning an approved plea bargain.

He explained that such decisions are beyond his jurisdiction. As a result, the judge adjourned the proceedings until January 25, 2025, allowing both parties time to consult on the plea bargain terms while ensuring that trial preparations continue.

Judiciary

Edo: PDP, APC Gear Up for Legal Battle

Published

2 weeks ago

January 13, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Jesusemen Oratokhai

The Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has commenced in Benin City, setting the stage for a legal battle between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the All Progressives Congress (APC), over the September 21 gubernatorial election.

PDP candidate Asue Ighodalo is challenging the results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging electoral malpractice, including inflated APC votes and unlawful cancellations of PDP votes in key areas.

PDP spokesperson Barrister Tony Ehilebo expressed confidence in their case, stating, “We have solid evidence to prove the election was rigged, and we trust the tribunal to uphold justice.”

However, the APC has dismissed the claims as unfounded.

Party chieftain Chief Alex Okosun urged unity, arguing that Ighodalo should support Governor Okpebholo instead of pursuing litigation.

The tribunal’s proceedings are being closely watched, as the verdict could shape Edo’s political future and test the judiciary’s commitment to electoral justice.

Judiciary

Court Halts Federal High Court’s Involvement in Kano Emirate Dispute

Published

2 weeks ago

January 10, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Patrick Idowu

In a dramatic twist, the Court of Appeal in Abuja has ruled to bar the Federal High Court in Kano from hearing the ongoing legal battle over the Kano Emirate.

In a split decision, two Justices backed the move, asserting that the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Kano State High Court.

Justice Gabriel Kolawole, delivering the lead judgment, declared that the Federal High Court had no authority over chieftaincy disputes, ordering the case to be transferred to the Kano State High Court.

However, the Presiding Justice, Mustapha Mohammed, and another Justice disagreed on the transfer, opting instead to strike out the case entirely.

The ruling puts a definitive end to the Federal High Court’s involvement, reaffirming the exclusive jurisdiction of the Kano State High Court in chieftaincy matters.

Judiciary

Court Halts Federal Allocations to LGAs Without Elected Officials

Published

2 weeks ago

January 9, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Alexis Uchendu

In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court has ordered the Federal Government to withhold allocations from Local Government Areas (LGAs), governed by unelected officials.

The decision reinforces the constitutional mandate requiring states to ensure democratically elected councils at the local level.

The ruling directly challenges the widespread practice of state governors appointing caretaker committees or administrators instead of conducting elections.

It underscores the principles of accountability, transparency, and constitutional governance in local administration.

This judgment is expected to force non-compliant states to hold LGA elections or risk losing federal funding, marking a significant shift in the fight against executive overreach at the state level.