The Lawless Gavel: Nigeria’s Descent Into Judicial Conquest, By Basil Odilim

April 24, 2025

There is something far more dangerous than banditry in our forests and kidnapping on our highways. It is the silent, polished crime happening behind the oak-paneled courtrooms of Nigeria. It is the smiling face of a judge who has traded his conscience for a brown envelope. It is the silk-wrapped arrogance of a lawyer who now makes his living not from defending the innocent but from perverting justice. This is Nigeria’s new civil war—a war waged not with guns but with gavels.
How did we get here? Where else in the world do judges sit over cases they have already sold, while lawyers draft legal arguments not for the court, but for bribes? Where else is justice so bastardized that those who dare to speak the truth are punished for contempt, while those who auction judgments are garlanded as “My Lord”?
Even the politicians, the most notorious wreckers of society, now tremble before the judiciary. Not out of respect, but fear—fear that one judge’s signature can erase elections, destroy legacies, or declare the dead as winners. The judiciary is no longer a separate arm of government in Nigeria; it is the shadow emperor. And like all emperors, it demands loyalty, not to the Constitution, but to the cartel.
What we are witnessing is not corruption—it is judicial conquest. A conquest where the law no longer serves the people but enslaves them. A conquest where judgments are passed, not in the courtroom, but in the corridors of power and the vaults of banks. A conquest where the very soul of justice is auctioned to the highest bidder, while the poor, the innocent, and the hopeful are trampled like vermin.
Our fellow citizens killed by kidnappers and herdsmen, our compatriots watching their children go to bed hungry, the sick who cannot afford a single drug, classrooms without teachers or equipment, and roads that have turned into death traps–these tragedies shouldn’t have happened. They are the direct consequences of a nation conquered not by foreign invaders but by judicial gangsters. When justice is broken, everything else falls apart.
Travel across Nigeria. Look around at the palatial homes in exclusive neighborhoods, the marble-floor offices in Abuja and Lagos, the latest bulletproof SUVs, and European sports cars gliding over cratered roads. Then, walk into the first-class lounge at the airport or board an international flight—take a moment to ask: Who are these people? What do they do for a living? You’ll find they’re not our professors, not our engineers, not our innovators or inventors. No, it is the new emperors of Nigeria—participants in the judicial conquest. Lawyers, judges, fixers, court clerks-turned-billionaires. Fearlessly, they’re parading their newfound treasure and nobility in a broken republic.
The silence has been too long, and too many are afraid to speak. But what do I do? Join the terrified public? Then, what will I tell Him who gave me my voice? What will I say to my father in his grave—the man who spent all he had to give me an education—if I choose silence over truth? Shall I keep quiet for fear of those who, by the weight of their atrocities, should be running for their lives whenever the truth is aired? No. I will not.
And let me say this with the burden of fairness: I’m sorry I have to say this painful truth, because amid all this decay, there are still a few good lawyers and judges—men and women of honor caught in a rotten system they can’t reform alone. But even their silence is being weaponized against them. Their courage must rise now more than ever because history teaches us that every fallen great civilization collapsed from within—once their judicial systems were sold to the dogs.
Let the world not be deceived. Nigeria’s greatest tragedy is not poverty. It is not insecurity. It is not even political corruption—it is the weaponization of the judiciary against its own people.
No society survives long when its courts become crime scenes. No republic thrives when its judges become executioners (killers) of truth. And no nation has a future when its Constitution becomes a napkin for thieves in silk.
Until we reclaim the judiciary, Nigeria will remain a conquered people—not by colonizers, but by those sworn to protect them. May the God hear our cries.

Finland Court Approves Extradition Of Igbo Separatist Leader, Simon Ekpa To Nigeria

Greenbarge Reporters

April 23, 2025

A Finnish court has approved the extradition of Igbo separatist leader, Simon Ekpa, to Nigeria, where he will face charges for alleged incitement, terrorism, and conspiracy.
The court in Päijät-Häme District in Lahti, granted Nigeria’s long-standing request, with the extradition set for July 15, according to reports.
Simon Ekpa, who refers to himself as the “Prime Minister” of the self-declared Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, has been accused of orchestrating unrest in southeastern Nigeria from abroad. His arrest in November 2024 followed months of surveillance by Finnish authorities.
Although often linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in media reports, the separatist group has distanced itself from Ekpa.
“Ekpa operates independently. Linking him to IPOB is misleading and dangerous,” said an IPOB spokesperson, adding: “His actions are not part of our struggle.”
Instead, Ekpa is said to lead a splinter group called “Autopilot,” which is allegedly connected to a militant organisation known as the Biafra Liberation Army (BLA). Authorities claim the group is responsible for violent “sit-at-home” orders, kidnappings, and targeted killings in Nigeria’s southeast.
Nigerian officials had presented evidence under the Rome Statute—ratified by both Finland and Nigeria—to support the extradition request. Finnish authorities emphasized that the court’s decision followed due process and international legal standards.
In a statement, the Nigerian government welcomed the ruling, calling it “a major step for justice” and a strong signal to those “who seek to distabilize the country from foreign shores.”

Insecurity: Niger Gov Directs Security Agents To Arrest Anybody With Dreadlock Hair

Greenbarge Reporters

April 22, 2025

Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago of Niger State has directed security agencies to arrest individuals found with dreadlocks or firearms across the state.
The governor, who gave the directive at a security stakeholders’ meeting in Minna, the state capital, said: “anybody that you find with dreadlock, arrest him, barb his hair and fine him.
“Nobody should carry any kind of haircut again inside here. I have given you marching order, the security agencies, any boy, anybody you find with a weapon, deal with him as an armed robber.”
To parents, the governor said: “So warn your children, warn your wards.”
The meeting was attended by traditional rulers, law enforcement officials, and community leaders. The meeting held in response to a recent surge in violence and criminal activity.

Garki Hospital In Abuja Renewed Concession To Private Group Brings It To Life

Greenbarge Reporters

April 21, 2025

The Garki Hospital in Abuja, which concession has been renewed to Nisa Medical Group, a private concern, is set to return the hospital to its excellent services, and has been described as an example of the effectiveness of Public Private Partnership (PPP) in improving service delivery.

Chairman, Nisa Medical Group Board of Directors, Dr Shamsudeen Usman at the inauguration of the new Garki Hospital, Abuja, Management Board, praised the Minister of Federal Capital Territory Administration, Barr Nyesom Wike for ensuring the renewal of the concession of Garki Hospital, Abuja despite all odds and challenges met earlier.

“The renewal of this concession, despite the challenges met during the first term is indeed a positive development for the public. I believe the calibre of individuals being inaugurated today will provide a strong and capable foundation for the hospital’s governance moving forward,” said Shamsudeen.

He noted that the second phase of the Public-Private Partnership between Nisa Medical Group and the Federal Capital Territory Administration was successfully completed, with the support of the Minister of State and the Permanent Secretary at the FCTA.

The former minister of budget and economic planning confident the new board will effectively manage the hospital and serve Abuja residents well. The first concession was an enormous success and a clear testament to the power of Public Private Partnership in affecting positively on service delivery. I charge this Board to take this trajectory to the next level.

“One of the major challenges during the earlier era was the lack of effective communication among stakeholders. I urge this new Board to address that by ensuring seamless communication at the highest levels, fostering mutual respect, cordiality and a clear, unified direction for the progress of the hospital.

“Transparency, patient safety and excellence in clinical practice must remain top priorities. I am confident that with proper communication and cooperation, this Board will function efficiently and harmoniously,” said the Chairman.

He described the new Chairman of the Garki Hospital Board, Dr. Peter Nmadu, as a seasoned medical professional with a solid record in managing healthcare services across the country.

“His experience across both the public and private sectors positions him as a balanced and competent leader,” having had a meritorious career in NNPC rising to the rank of Group Executive Director, Corporate Services before his statutory retirement.

The Permanent Secretary, Health Service and Environment, FCTA, Dr. Baba-Gana Adam recalled the cooperation former ministers with Dr. Ibrahim Wada and his team when they started the concept of redefining government through the idea of PPP.

“We thank the Mandate Secretary, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe for working through and having an understanding for us to sign the dotted lines. We thank Minister Nyesom Wike for speeding up this process and ensuring its delivery.

Dr Adam restated the passion of his team for effective and efficient service delivery that will serve the community. “Particularly, I can say that I am on this board not for any personal reason. I am on this board to ensure the government does its part,” he said.

The permanent secretary said the Nisa-FCTA partnership has proven that the PPP is working for Nigerians to see and promised that the FCTA is open to similar agreements to improve service delivery.

The Medical Director, Garki Hospital, Dr Kenneth Ityo praised the team which steered the hospital through the first 15 years of concession and promised to leave an indelible mark during his tenure.

“It is our sincere hope that after 15 years of concession, we will leave a legacy that will stand the test of time, deepen the system and the success of PPP in Nigeria”, said Ityo.

The new board comprises Permanent Secretary, FCT Health Services and Environment, Dr. Baba-Gana Ahmadu; representative of the FCTA legal services secretariat Garduya Bawa; Director, Medical and Diagnostics Department, Dr Abubakar Ahmadu; Chairman Garki Hospital board, Dr Peter Nmadu, chairman, Ismaila Shaibu, Mrs Amina Habib Ahmed, Medical Director, Garki Hospital, and Dr Kenneth Ityo, Mrs Rabi Wada and Mallam Tijani Haruna Baba.

FLASH: Pope Francis Dies Today, Easter Monday, At 88

Greenbarge Reporters

April 21, 2025

Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died.
The Vatican confirmed that he died today, April 21, which is Easter Monday, at the age of 88.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in a statement released by the Vatican during the early hours of Monday.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and the marginalised,” he added.
Francis’ body will be put on display in an open coffin in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, one of Christianity’s holiest sites, where pontiffs have been buried for more than 100 years. But following Francis’ wishes, he is expected to be buried at the ancient Basilica of St. Mary Major, which lies outside the Vatican walls.
Pope Francis’s papacy heralded many firsts and while he never stopped introducing reforms to the Catholic Church, he remained popular among traditionalists.
Not since Syrian-born Gregory III died in 741 had there been a non-European Bishop of Rome.
He was also the first Jesuit to be elected to the throne of St Peter – Jesuits were historically looked on with suspicion by Rome.
Francis’s predecessor, Benedict XVI, was the first Pope to retire voluntarily in almost 600 years and for almost a decade the Vatican Gardens hosted two popes.
As Cardinal Bergoglio of Argentina, Francis was already in his seventies when he became Pope in 2013.
He had suffered various ailments in his 12-year papacy, with severe complications in recent weeks.

I Will Withdraw My Support For PDP If…, Wike Threatened

Greenbarge Reporters

April 19, 2025

Chieftain of the main opposition political party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Nyeson Wike, has threatened to withdraw his support for the party’s candidates in the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council election if the leadership do not put their house in order.
“If the PDP does not keep their house in order, I will not support them for the Area Council election.”
Wike, who is the minister of the FCT under the umbrella of the presidency, led by Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), concluded in a media chat that his party, the PDP, “is fundamentally unprepared for the 2027 general elections.”
Citing internal strife, impunity, and a lack of genuine commitment to opposition politics as key factors contributing to the party’s current state, Wike said that the Governors Forum, while influential, is merely a pressure group and not an organ of the party.
He stressed that the Forum had no authority to make proclamations on zoning or alter the functions of the National Working Committee (NWC).
He lamented the lack of effective opposition from PDP governors, questioning their commitment to holding the ruling party accountable.
The Minister stressed the necessity of genuine sacrifice and strong leadership for any party aspiring to lead the opposition, a quality he believes is currently absent within the PDP.
“For you to say I want to lead the opposition party is not by mouth. You have to sacrifice a lot of things.”
On the political situation in Rivers State, the Minister defended President Tinubu’s emergency declaration, saying that it saved Rivers State from descending into anarchy and facilitated the restoration of funding for Local Governments.
He lauded the President’s intervention as being in the best interest of the state.
The Minister used the occasion to call on the leaders and elders of Rivers State to move beyond public pronouncements and take genuine steps towards resolving the political crisis in the state, emphasizing the importance of allowing democratic structures, particularly the State House of Assembly, to function constitutionally.

I Have Achieved In Less Than 2 Years What My Predecessor Could Not Achieve In 8 Years – Wike

Greenbarge Reporters

April 19, 2025

“The difference is clear. FCT residents are amazed at the accelerated development that is going on all over the territory. You can see what is happening; people are talking, saying, ‘You mean this is possible within a short time of less than two years?’ We were here for eight years, and comparatively, little happened. “We have not even reached two years, and look at what has already been achieved. Imagine what will happen in four years’ time.”
The minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike, made the comparison today, April 19, when fielded questions on the performance of his ministry, from selected journalists in Abuja.
Wike narrated: “When I go out, I see that people are happy. I recently visited Kwali, on the road to Lokoja – A2 to Pai. The enthusiastic reception I received was remarkable. “Similarly, the progress from Pai to Gomani is evident for all to see. In Bwari, the Gaba/Tokulo road is another testament to our commitment to reaching rural areas.
“People are genuinely amazed that the government is focusing on these communities; it has never happened before. So, yes, people are happy.”
Minister Wike said that the
the ongoing International Conference Centre (ICC) renovation reflects the enhanced quality of work being delivered.
“The cost is a direct result of the improved quality we are insisting upon.”
He made it clear that Julius Berger Plc that is handling the project is not cheap, stressing that its standards are exceptional.
“By this May, I invite you to visit the International Conference Centre and witness the transformation firsthand. As Nigerians, you will be proud of what has been accomplished.”
On the on-going hospital projects, including those in Utako, Gwagwalada, and Kubwa, the Minister acknowledged the challenges posed by existing litigation.
He also highlighted the complexities of hospital construction, emphasizing the need for integrated planning and execution, stating that the FCT administration was committed to ensuring the facilities are completed and operational to enhance healthcare delivery in the FCT.
On the recent land reforms, including the regularization of Area Council land titles, the Minister reiterated the Supreme Court’s ruling that all land within the FCT falls under the FCT Administration.
He emphasized government’s commitment to regularizing existing allocations to provide landowners with Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).
“The Supreme Court has come to say every land belongs to the FCT, therefore, there is nothing like Area Council land and we don’t want to go back in saying that we have cancelled all the allocations. We said let’s regularize so that you can have your C of O.”
Wike called for prompt payment of fees and development of allocated lands to prevent land speculation and ensure efficient land utilization.
He said that the Administration will proceed with the development of the Maitama II District, and called on all land allotees in the FCT who are yet to pay the required fees to do so, reiterating that Abuja land is not free.
On the issue of reviewing the Abuja masterplan, the Minister called for patience, saying: “The Abuja masterplan is to keep Abuja the way it was designed.”
He stressed his commitment to adhering to the masterplan and addressing illegal developments.
The Minister said that he will bring down any illegal structure that is against the Abuja masterplan.
On city sanitation, the Minister called for greater public responsibility and tax compliance.
He highlighted the high cost of waste management and urged residents to pay their sanitation fees.
He also called on the media to help educate the public on the need to pay their taxes.
On public transportation in the FCT, and the menace of illegal motor parks, the Minister disclosed that the three bus terminal projects embarked upon by the administration would soon be completed. Once operational, the Minister said, the administration will enforce regulations to reduce illegal parking and improve traffic flow.
“By the grace of God, we are almost done with the three bus terminals. We will be able to say this is where you will load, and this is the dropping point. Then we will now be able to reduce these illegal car parks.”

Edo Govt Places Death By Hanging On Kidnappers

Greenbarge Reporters

April 18, 2025

Edo State government has placed death by hanging on kidnappers in the state.
The state Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, who confirmed the new dispensation today, April 18, said that he is ready to sign the death warrants on kidnappers that are convicted.
He spoke at a stakeholders session at the Uromi Townhall interaction with leaders and members of the Arewa community in Esan land.
The Edo State House of Assembly had earlier passed a bill amending the Kidnapping Prohibition Amendment Law (and Related Matters 2013). The bill prescribes the death penalty for kidnappers and mandates the confiscation and demolition of properties used in the commission of their crimes.
Governor Okpebholo said that his administration will not tolerate insecurity, killing, and kidnapping anymore in the State as he will deal ruthlessly with all criminal elements in the State.
“I take the issue of insecurity seriously and will not bend the rules but apply them strictly. The new law in the State permits us to demolish their properties and confiscate their lands. We will build vigilante team offices on those lands.
“We will bring kidnappers to the public and execute them to show our seriousness according to the laws already passed by the EDHA. I will not be afraid to sign it.”
The Governor called on all to collaborate with his administration to secure the State, “saying security is the business of all and not for security agencies alone.
“The kind of security we want to have in the State is one where security remnants women are paid salaries, unlike before where the people will just put on uniforms without being paid. We are going to employ vigilante teams and pay them salaries and stop people from just putting on their uniforms.
“These people will work with security agencies and they will be trained on how to fight crimes and handle criminals. I will not wait until campaign time to solve your problems. I will start to address the problems facing our people in the market, and everywhere.
“It is time to start profiling people from other States who claim to be from the North and ensure they don’t spoil your name. We will fence the market, put streetlights, build abattoirs for those killing cows. We want to secure the people of Edo State.”

President Tinubu Has Been Running Nigeria Government From Europe – Presidency

Greenbarge Reporters

April 17, 2025

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully engaged in Nigeria’s governance even though he is away in Europe.”
A statement today, April 17, by the Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, stressed that President Bola Tinubu “has maintained constant communication with key government officials, overseeing critical national matters, including directives to security chiefs to address emerging threats in some parts of the country.
“His absence remains temporary and in line with the communicated timeframe of approximately two weeks.”
The statement said that the President left Paris for London at the weekend and that his return to Abuja and the resumption of duties at Aso Villa will follow the conclusion of the Easter holiday.
“The President’s commitment to his duties remains unwavering, and his administration continues to function effectively under his leadership.
“We appreciate the public’s concern and assure all Nigerians that governance proceeds without interruption.”

NNPCL Spokesman, Soneye, Beats Them All To Clinch NIPR Best Spokesman Of The Year Award

Greenbarge Reporters

April 17, 2025

The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Olufemi Soneye has emerged the Best Spokesman of the Year 2025, beating many equally experienced spokespersons across the country.
The award was organised in Abuja, the nation’s capital city, by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
Femi Soneye is a journalist, a brand strategist and a Public Relations specialist, and was appointed as NNPCL’s spokesman on October 18, 2023.
A seasoned professional, Soneye brought with him decades of international media experience across Nigeria, Australia, and the United States, where he previously served as Editor of the prestigious US Air Force One Magazine at Joint Base Andrews, Washington, D.C.
At the awards on Wednesday, Soneye beat an experienced field, which included Shell Petroleum’s Igo Weli, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi of the Nigeria Police Force, Olumuyiwa Akande of Sifax Group, and Osagie Edward of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), to win the most coveted award of Spokesperson of the Year.
In addition to winning the top prize, Soneye also emerged winner in the “Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas)” category, beating Shell’s Igo Weli and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) spokesman, Chief Chinedu Ukadike to the prize, a feat he had performed previously in the 2024 edition of the award.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Adjudication Committee, Dr. Shaibu Hussein, represented by committee member, Lami Tuiaka, emphasized that the selection process was intense and thorough.
He described Soneye as a diligent and strategic communicator whose ability to influence public opinion, handle crises effectively, and create impactful messaging set him apart from others.
“Our team of communication experts, PR professionals, and media figures worked extensively to assess the nominees based on communication skills, crisis management abilities, and overall public impact,” he stated.
Presenting the award to Soneye, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Power, Joshua Audu Ghana, lauded the NNPCL spokesman on his achievement, saying that NIPR will celebrate him throughout 2025 as the award’s title holder.
“On behalf of NIPR Award Night 2025, I proudly present this plaque to our Spokesperson of the Year, Mr. Olufemi Soneye.”
Soneye dedicated the award to the entire NNPCL corporate communications team.
“I am truly honoured to be named Spokesperson of the Year by NIPR. This award is not mine alone. It belongs to the exceptional team I work with every day.
“From the beginning, I made a vow to be a transparent and professional spokesperson committed to timely, impactful and accurate communication. “This award reinforces our shared dedication to raising the bar in public communication and serving the Nigerian public with integrity.
“As I always say, NNPC is our collective asset and belongs to all Nigerians. We remain committed to keeping the public informed and involved in our activities as we continue to ensure energy security for our nation.”
A consummate professional, has as NNPCL’s spokesman revolutionized the company’s public communications’ process. From being viewed as an opaque organization reluctant to open its doors to public scrutiny, Soneye, with the support of the company’s management has repositioned NNPCL as a public-friendly and transparent organization always willing to engage its external public in a professional and creative manner.
Under his management of the public communications process, the NNPC brand has witnessed remarkable elevation and with a 360-degree approach to branding, has repositioned the company as a trusted and proudly Nigerian energy brand.
In addition, Soneye institutionalization of a proactive crisis management mechanism has ensured that NNPCL is never caught off guard. His foresight and swift interventions have consistently protected the corporate image of the company.

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