Court Declares Police Wanted Notice on Lagos Lawyer Illegal, Orders Retraction and Apology

A Federal High Court in Lagos has ruled that the Nigeria Police Force acted unlawfully by declaring Lagos-based lawyer Emmanuel Chinyere Orji wanted without a court order. Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa held that the Police exceeded their constitutional powers and violated Orji’s fundamental rights by publishing his name and photograph in national media and on its website.
The court nullified the publication, directed the Inspector General of Police to retract the notice and issue a formal apology, but dismissed Orji’s N1 billion damages claim. The judgment reinforces that law enforcement agencies cannot declare a citizen wanted without judicial authorization.


#NigeriaPolice

#FundamentalRights

#LagosCourt

Court Adjourns Hearing on Nnamdi Kanu’s Request for Transfer From Sokoto Prison to January 27

The Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed the hearing of Nnamdi Kanu’s application seeking his transfer from the Sokoto Correctional Centre to a facility nearer to the FCT. Justice James Omotosho adjourned the case to January 27, 2026, directing that the Correctional Service and prosecution be notified. Kanu, who was recently sentenced to life imprisonment on terrorism charges, argues that his distant detention location hinders effective legal consultation and obstructs his appeal process. His legal team maintains that relocating him to Kuje, Keffi, or any facility within the court’s jurisdiction is essential for fair defence.

Minister Maigari Ahmadu Obtains Court Order to Arrest Taraba Activist Despite Public Denial

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, has been accused of secretly securing multiple court orders to arrest Taraba activist Abdulmumuni Imam, despite publicly denying any involvement. Imam, who has criticised the stalled reconstruction of the collapsed Namnai Bridge and alleged diversion of ₦16.5 billion, reportedly never received any invitation or summons. Fresh revelations show the Minister’s team first obtained an arrest order from the Upper Area Court, later withdrew it, and then secured another at the Federal High Court, contradicting earlier statements from his media aide. The activist maintains he is being targeted for exposing delays and alleged interference in the emergency bridge project, which has caused multiple deaths and suffering for local communities.

EFCC Arraigns Moonlink Pharma MD for Alleged ₦55m Money Laundering, Court Orders Remand

The EFCC has arraigned Gabriel Celestine Nwawuzor, Managing Director of Moonlink Pharmaceuticals Limited, before the Federal High Court in Lagos over an alleged ₦55 million money-laundering scheme. Prosecutors accused him of diverting illicit funds through a Zenith Bank account in 2021 and disguising the money by purchasing a property in Asaba. Nwawuzor pleaded not guilty, but Justice Daniel Osiagor granted him ₦100 million bail with strict conditions, including two property-owning sureties. He was remanded in the correctional facility pending fulfilment of the bail terms. Trial begins March 11–12, 2026.

Court Adjourns NDDC Ex-Director Tuoyo Omatsuli’s N3.6bn Fraud Trial to March 2026

A Federal High Court in Lagos has adjourned to March 3, 2026, for judgment in the N3.6 billion fraud case involving former NDDC Executive Director of Projects, Tuoyo Omatsuli. He is standing trial alongside Don Parker Properties Limited, Francis Momoh, and Building Associates Limited on a 46-count charge filed by the EFCC, covering conspiracy, corruption, unlawful gratification, and money laundering.

The EFCC alleged that the defendants diverted billions recovered as statutory levies from oil companies through Starline Consultancy Services, funnelling the funds into shell companies, converting large sums into dollars, and acquiring high-value properties in Lagos. After years of legal battles, rejected no-case submissions, and appeals, the case is now set for a final ruling in one of the most significant corruption prosecutions linked to the NDDC.

Police Delay Sowore’s Rights Suit After Filing Last-Minute Counter-Affidavit in Court

Proceedings in Omoyele Sowore’s fundamental rights enforcement suit against Lagos Commissioner of Police Jimoh Moshood were stalled after police submitted a fresh counter-affidavit inside the courtroom, a move described by his lawyer as an ambush tactic. Sowore is challenging the CP’s November 3 declaration naming him “wanted” without any formal charge or warrant. The case, before Justice Musa Kakaki of the Federal High Court in Lagos, has been adjourned to December 9 as Sowore’s legal team prepares additional filings. His lawyers argue that the declaration violated his constitutional rights and was used as a tool of intimidation.

Nnamdi Kanu Asks Court to Move Him From Sokoto Prison, Cites Hardship Blocking His Appeal

IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, recently sentenced to life imprisonment, has filed a fresh motion at the Federal High Court in Abuja requesting his transfer from the Sokoto Custodial Centre. Kanu argued that being detained over 700 kilometres away from Abuja makes it impossible for him to effectively prepare and pursue his appeal, describing the situation as a violation of his constitutional rights.
His motion—personally signed—was presented by his brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, who urged the court to hear the case in Kanu’s absence. However, Justice James Omotosho rejected Emmanuel’s appearance, ruling that he could not represent the convict because he is not a lawyer.
Kanu asked to be moved to a facility within Abuja’s jurisdiction or to a closer correctional centre such as Suleja or Keffi. The court adjourned the hearing to 8 December 2025, advising Kanu to hire legal counsel. The judge also cautioned the public against misinterpreting court processes regarding appeal documentation.

Court Rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s Bid to Leave Sokoto Prison, Says Brother Cannot Represent Him

The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a fresh attempt by IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu to challenge his placement in Sokoto prison. His younger brother, Emmanuel Kanu, appeared before the court to move a motion seeking Kanu’s transfer to Abuja, arguing it would allow him to properly pursue his appeal.
However, Justice James Omotosho refused to hear the motion, stating that Emmanuel could not represent the convict because he is not a lawyer. The judge ruled that only a legal practitioner can move such an application on behalf of a sentenced person.
Kanu was recently handed multiple prison terms, including life imprisonment, for terrorism-related offences. His sentencing continues to spark national debate, with analysts urging dialogue to address tensions in the southeast.

Trial of Ex-Acting Accountant-General Nwabuoku Stalled as Defence Counsel Fails to Appear in N868m Fraud Case

The trial of former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation, Chukwunyere Anamekwe Nwabuoku, was on Thursday stalled at the Federal High Court in Abuja after his lead counsel, Norrison Quakers (SAN), failed to appear. Nwabuoku faces an amended nine-count charge filed by the EFCC, alleging money laundering and diversion of N868.4 million during his tenure as Director of Finance at the Ministry of Defence. Despite opposition from the prosecution, Justice James Omotosho granted an adjournment “in the interest of justice,” shifting the trial to February 2, 2026. The court had earlier ruled that Nwabuoku must enter his defence after dismissing his no-case submission.

It is illegal for VIO to impound vehicles — Abuja High Court rules as it restrains the agency from seizing vehicles and imposing fines on motorists

The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court has ruled that the Directorate of Road Services (VIO) lacks the legal authority to confiscate vehicles or impose fines on Nigerian motorists.

Delivering judgment on October 2, 2024, in case FHC/ABJ/CS/1695/2023, Justice Nkeonye Evelyn Maha stated that VIO officers “are not empowered by any law or statute to stop, impound, confiscate the vehicles of motorists and or impose fine on motorists.”

The judgment followed a lawsuit filed by human rights attorney Mr. Marshal of Falana and Falana Chambers, aiming to curtail the powers of the road traffic agency, which has long been a source of anxiety for motorists nationwide.

Justice Maha also issued a perpetual injunction restraining VIO, its agents, allies, or anyone acting on its behalf from violating Nigerians’ rights to freedom of movement, presumption of innocence, and property ownership without lawful justification.

The ruling does not affect the Federal Road Safety Corps, which continues to operate as Nigeria’s primary road traffic enforcement body. The decision brings significant relief to millions of motorists across the country.

EFCC Files Appeal Against Release of 27 Properties

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it has appealed the judgment of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, which ordered the release of twenty-seven houses to James Ibechukwu Okoye and his company.

In the Notice of Appeal filed at the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, the Commission expressed dissatisfaction with the decision of the trial court, which was delivered on October 31, 2025.
EFCC counsel, Abba Mohammed, SAN, sought two orders from the Court of Appeal, which include:

Staying the execution of the judgment of the trial court pending the hearing and determination of the appeal; and
Such further or other orders as the court may deem fit to make in the circumstances.

Witness: $35m NCDMB Project Funds Released Without Proper Documentation, Court Told



During the ongoing trial of Akindele Akintoye and two companies accused of converting $35 million meant for an NCDMB project, a prosecution witness told the Federal High Court that funds were released without official reports confirming project milestones. The witness revealed that payments were made based on verbal instructions and that no comprehensive accountability report was ever submitted, while the project remains abandoned.


#NCDMB

#EFCCTrial

#FinancialMismanagement

Federal Workers Forum to Protest at Ibadan Court, Demand Withdrawal of Charges Against Coordinator Andrew Emelieze

The Federal Workers Forum has announced a nationwide solidarity protest scheduled for December 4, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, calling for the immediate withdrawal of charges against its Coordinator, Comrade Andrew Emelieze. The group condemned what it described as a growing clampdown on free speech and activism in Nigeria. Emelieze, a prominent workers’ rights advocate, was previously detained and later rearrested in July 2025 for leading a peaceful protest. Supporters claim the prosecution is an attempt to silence lawful agitation. The Forum urged activists, labour groups, and human rights defenders to mobilize in solidarity and demanded that the Federal Government and DSS drop all charges while respecting constitutional freedoms.

Residents of Anambra State Maintain Monday Sit-at-Home Despite Kanu’s Imprisonment

Residents in Onitsha, Nnewi, and other parts of Anambra State continued to observe the weekly Monday sit-at-home, showing solidarity with Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, even after his conviction and imprisonment.

Businesses, schools, banks, hospitals, and government offices remained shut, while streets were largely empty, reflecting widespread public support for Kanu.Some locals told Vanguard that the sit-at-home is a voluntary protest and not enforced by IPOB. They clarified that previous claims of IPOB-imposed lockdowns were misleading, noting that any criminal activity during past protests was opportunistic and not organized by the group.

Obed Nwachukwu stated, “Those expecting markets and businesses to reopen because of Kanu’s imprisonment will have to wait. We are standing in solidarity with him until he regains freedom.”

Chief Okwudili Okoye added, “The Federal Government’s assertions and the Abuja Federal High Court’s ruling lack credibility. The Monday sit-at-home will continue voluntarily to demand justice and fairness for Ndigbo. Normal activities will resume only when Nnamdi Kanu is free.”

Residents stressed that the protest extends beyond IPOB, serving as a wider demonstration of solidarity with Kanu and a stand against what they perceive as unfair treatment of the Igbo people.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a lawsuit filed by former Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan against the NSA and EFCC, where he claimed unlawful and prolonged detention. Justice Mohammed Umar ruled that the case was an abuse of court process, stating that the NSA acted within its legal powers and that ongoing investigations into Binance cannot be stopped by the court. The judge noted that Gambaryan had no immunity, was lawfully remanded, and was considered a flight risk. His colleague, Nadeem Anjarwalla, earlier escaped custody. The suit was therefore fully dismissed.

Court Debunks Assassination Rumour on Judge Who Sentenced Nnamdi Kanu — Labels Viral Claims ‘Fake News’


The Federal High Court has firmly denied a viral report alleging that Justice James Omotosho survived an assassination attempt days after sentencing IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment.

The rumour, circulated by a Facebook blogger, claimed the judge was attacked and rushed to the hospital. However, in an official statement on Sunday, Chief Registrar Sulaiman Hassan described the story as completely false, unfounded, and designed to mislead Nigerians.

The statement, titled “Rebuttal to False Publication by ‘Celebrity Blogger’ on the Alleged Assassination Attempt on Justice James Omotosho”, urged the public to disregard the report and refrain from spreading misinformation.

“We firmly and unequivocally declare that the said report is completely false,” the court stated.
“The public is advised to treat this publication as fake news.”

Hassan expressed concern over the motive behind the fabrication, noting that such claims could spark panic and undermine confidence in the judiciary. He called on security agencies to investigate and prosecute those behind the malicious publication under cybercrime and defamation laws.

BACKGROUND ON THE CASE
Justice Omotosho had on Thursday sentenced Nnamdi Kanu to life imprisonment on terrorism charges. While several counts carried the death penalty, the judge opted for leniency, saying:

“As a Christian, I chose to be merciful.”

Kanu received life sentences on multiple counts, with additional terms running concurrently. The court also ordered his transfer to protective custody outside Kuje Prison and restricted his access to digital devices.

The judge further ruled that Kanu’s seized radio transmitter be forfeited to the Federal Government, with DSS allowed to pursue forfeiture of additional exhibits.

Describing the IPOB leader as “unruly” and “not remorseful,” Justice Omotosho maintained that the defendant still demonstrated “a tendency of violence.”

In line with the judgement of a Federal High Court in Abuja, the Department of State Services (DSS) has moved the convicted leader of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to the Nigerian Custodial Centre in Sokoto.

Nnamdi Kanu moved from DSS detention to Sokoto prison.

Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been transferred to a maximum-security correctional facility in Sokoto State following his sentencing to life imprisonment on Thursday by a Federal High Court in Abuja.

Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment convicting Kanu on multiple terrorism-related charges. He was immediately remanded in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service, ending his years-long detention at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility in Abuja.

His Lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor confirmed the development on Social Media.

He wrote; “MAZI NNAMDI KANU has just been moved from DSS Abuja to the correctional facility (prison) in Sokoto; so far away from his lawyers, family, loved ones and well wishers.”

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja did indeed dismiss a fresh bail application from Nnamdi Kanu on Thursday, November 20, 2025. This ruling preceded the court's subsequent decision to convict the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader on terrorism charges.

Counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, Aloy Ejimakor, has vowed to challenge the life sentence handed to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday.