News
SERAP Calls on Tinubu to Halt Petrol Price Increase During Court Proceedings
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to promptly reverse the recent increase in petrol prices while a lawsuit questioning the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) authority to raise fuel prices is pending before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The latest price adjustments have seen petrol retailing for N998 per litre at NNPCL outlets in Lagos, a significant jump from the previous price of N855.
In Abuja, the price has risen to N1,030 from N897, with some stations in Lagos reportedly charging as much as N1,050.
This demand comes on the heels of SERAP’s lawsuit filed last month against President Tinubu and the NNPCL, addressing not only the failure to roll back the fuel price increase but also allegations of corruption and mismanagement within the NNPCL.
SERAP has consistently emphasized that these actions are crucial for the well-being of Nigerian citizens, especially amid the current economic challenges.
In an open letter dated October 12, 2024, and signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP argued that the recent price hikes undermine the integrity of the ongoing court case, risking the possibility of justice being obstructed.
The organization highlighted that one of the fundamental tenets of the rule of law is its application to everyone, including presidents and executives of public organizations.
SERAP’s letter asserted that maintaining the purity and clarity of the judicial process is vital for public trust in the legal system.
It stressed that the recent increase in petrol prices could prejudice the case’s outcome and damage the public’s confidence in the court’s ability to deliver justice.
The letter referenced President Tinubu’s commitments since assuming office in May 2023, where he assured citizens that Nigeria would be governed in accordance with the Constitution and the rule of law.
SERAP expressed concern that raising fuel prices while the legal case is ongoing would contradict those assurances and undermine the government’s credibility.
In conclusion, SERAP requested that immediate measures be taken to reverse the price hike and comply with their request.
The organization warned that failure to do so may lead to contempt proceedings or other legal actions aimed at ensuring compliance in the public interest.
SERAP remains committed to holding public institutions accountable and fighting for the rights of Nigerians, emphasizing the necessity of transparency and good governance.
News
Supreme Court Dismisses States’ Challenge Against EFCC Act
The Supreme Court has dismissed a lawsuit filed by Attorneys General of several states seeking to abolish the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Act.
The suit, initially brought by Attorneys General from 16 states, aimed to challenge the legal establishment of the anti-graft agency. Over time, some states, including Anambra, Ebonyi, and Adamawa, withdrew from the case, while others, such as Imo, Bauchi, and Osun, joined as co-plaintiffs during the October 22 hearing.
The apex court subsequently struck out the suits of the withdrawing states and dismissed the broader case, upholding the EFCC Act.
News
Suleja Prison Struggles to Feed Overcrowded Inmates Amid Economic Challenges
The Deputy Comptroller of Corrections at the Suleja Custodial Facility in Niger State, Ibrahim Yau, has expressed concern over the difficulties in providing decent meals for inmates due to Nigeria’s harsh economic situation.
Speaking during a visit by Legal Aid Council officials, Yau highlighted the inadequacy of the daily feeding allowance and the overcrowding in the facility, which now houses 405 inmates despite a capacity of 250.
He commended NGOs for their support, acknowledging the government’s inability to fully address the welfare needs of the inmates. The visit aimed to improve prison conditions and provide free legal services to inmates.
News
Peter Obi Mourns the Passing of Justice Emmanuel Ogwuegbu
Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State and a prominent political figure, has expressed deep sorrow following the passing of Justice Emmanuel Ogwuegbu, a respected former Supreme Court Justice.
In a message, Obi described Justice Ogwuegbu as a beacon of integrity whose legacy of truth, justice, and fairness has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s judiciary.
Justice Ogwuegbu served in the Nigerian judiciary for several decades, with a distinguished 11-year tenure at the Supreme Court.
During his time on the bench, he earned a reputation for his unwavering commitment to justice and truth, holding fast to the principles of fairness, no matter the case or the parties involved.
His tenure was marked by a resolute dedication to ensuring that the rule of law prevailed in all matters, and his decisions were often seen as beacons of impartiality and reason.
Obi took a moment to reflect on the challenges facing Nigeria’s judiciary today, noting that it has come under pressure, much like the country’s political landscape.
In recent times, justice has sometimes been perceived as transactional, with fairness often compromised.
However, Justice Ogwuegbu stood as an example of what the judiciary should represent—an unwavering pillar of integrity that serves the common man, ensuring that the law applies equally to all.
As Obi mourned the loss, he praised the legacy left behind by Justice Ogwuegbu.
His career was a testament to the values of honesty, dedication, and fairness.
Obi encouraged current members of the judiciary to follow in Ogwuegbu’s footsteps, upholding the same high standards of justice and integrity.
He stressed that the judiciary’s role as a protector of fairness and truth is crucial, especially in today’s challenging times.
On behalf of his family and the Obidient family, Obi extended his heartfelt condolences to the Ogwuegbu family and the entire legal community.
He expressed sympathy for the loss, acknowledging the profound impact Justice Ogwuegbu had on the legal profession.
Obi prayed that God would grant strength to the Ogwuegbu family and the legal community in this difficult time, and that the late justice would be granted eternal peace.
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