By Our Correspondent

Renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Funmi Falana, has condemned the alleged harassment and intimidation of a serving corps member, Ushie Uguamaye, by officials of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Lagos State.

Falana, who is the founder and Chairperson of the Women Empowerment and Legal Aid (WELA), expressed deep concern over the violation of Uguamaye’s constitutional rights, particularly her freedom of expression.

In a statement obtained by SaharaReporters, Falana emphasized that freedom of speech is a fundamental right enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. She insisted that no citizen should face threats or reprisals for expressing their opinion on public matters.

She warned that WELA would take legal action against the NYSC and the Local Government Inspector (LGI) responsible for the alleged harassment if the intimidation continues. The organization vowed to file a fundamental human rights suit on behalf of Uguamaye should the violations persist.

“Our attention has been drawn to the case of Ushie Uguamaye, a serving corps member in Lagos State, who is allegedly facing harassment and intimidation from NYSC officials for exercising her constitutional right to freedom of expression,” the statement read.

“Freedom of speech is a fundamental right enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, and no citizen should be subjected to threats or reprisals for expressing their opinion on matters of public concern.”

She further called on the leadership of the NYSC to put an end to any form of intimidation against corps members and uphold their rights to express themselves freely without fear of persecution.

“Women Empowerment and Legal Aid (WELA) will not hesitate to file a fundamental human rights suit on her behalf should these acts of intimidation persist,” Falana added.

She also stressed that if the harassment continues, WELA would take legal action against both the LGI and the NYSC to ensure that Uguamaye’s rights are fully protected.

“We call on the NYSC leadership to immediately stop any form of intimidation against Miss Uguamaye and respect the rights of all corps members to freely express themselves without fear of persecution,” Falana stated.

The NYSC is yet to respond to the allegations.

By Our Correspondent

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the lawsuit filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the Senate leadership to March 25, 2025, prolonging an intense legal and political confrontation between the Kogi Central senator and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The case, which has drawn nationwide attention, stems from Natasha’s controversial six-month suspension from the Senate—a move she insists was politically motivated and a direct attempt to silence her.

Court Proceedings and Adjournment

During Monday’s court session, Justice James Omotosho confirmed that all parties had been properly served with legal documents. However, the judge ruled to adjourn the case to allow for a harmonization of legal arguments before the next hearing.

Legal analysts suggest that the adjournment could offer both sides the opportunity to refine their positions as the case moves towards a full hearing.

Background of the Crisis

Senator Natasha, a vocal critic of the Akpabio-led Senate, found herself at the center of controversy after raising concerns about what she described as the mismanagement of Senate affairs under Akpabio’s leadership.

She publicly questioned the allocation of resources and the allegedly biased distribution of constituency projects, sparking tension within the legislative chamber.

Despite a court order restraining the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges from investigating her, the committee proceeded with its probe.

It later submitted a report recommending her suspension—a recommendation that the Senate swiftly enforced.

Allegations of Political Persecution

Observers believe Natasha’s suspension was engineered to silence dissent within the Senate, as she remains one of the few lawmakers openly challenging Akpabio’s leadership style.

Her legal team has described the suspension as unconstitutional and a blatant violation of her rights, arguing that no senator should be punished for performing their oversight duties.

Civil society organizations and opposition lawmakers have also condemned the move, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent for democracy in Nigeria.

Akpabio’s Defense and the Growing Backlash

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has defended the Senate’s decision, maintaining that Natasha’s suspension followed due process. He denied any political witch-hunt, insisting that the Senate leadership acted within its constitutional powers.

However, the backlash has been intense. Apart from opposition senators, some ruling party lawmakers have also distanced themselves from the decision, signaling growing discontent within the legislative ranks.

What Happens Next?

As the legal battle drags on, all eyes are on the judiciary to determine whether Natasha’s suspension will be overturned or if the Senate’s decision will stand.

The March 25 hearing is expected to be a turning point in the case, as it will provide clarity on the legal and constitutional implications of suspending an elected lawmaker.

For now, the crisis within the Senate continues to deepen, raising concerns about legislative independence, political accountability, and the rule of law in Nigeria.

By Our Correspondent

The Gombe State High Court has adjourned the case between Emir General Integrated Limited and Grandscope Construction Limited concerning an alleged trespass.

Presiding judge, Justice Fatima Musa, announced that the new date for the hearing is 17 February 2025.

The counsel for the applicant, Barrister Sulaiman Abdurrahim, explained that the case, which involves a dispute over land encroachment, was brought before the court by Emir General Integrated Limited, seeking legal redress against Grandscope Construction Limited for the unauthorized trespass on its property.

Barrister Abdurrahim noted that there is an existing court order restraining the defendant—whether through itself, agents, workmen, laborers, employees, or representatives—from further entering, erecting structures, or commencing construction work on the disputed property.

Meanwhile, counsel for the defendant, Barrister Garba Bin Ali Subi, stated that the adjournment would provide sufficient time for them to thoroughly review the case.

Justice Fatima Musa announced the adjournment during the proceedings, with the court setting 17 February 2025 as the new hearing date.

It is worth recalling that the court had earlier issued an order restraining Grandscope Construction Limited from further entering or commencing construction on the property belonging to Emir General Integrated Limited, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.