Civil society organizations, including the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) and the Youth Rights Campaign (YRC), have condemned the arrests, brutalization, and detention of peaceful protesters commemorating the anniversary of the Lekki Tollgate massacre on October 20, 2020.

On the morning of the protest, police operatives arrested several activists gathered at the Lekki Tollgate. However, lawyer and activist Mr. Inibehe Effiong reported that they had secured the release of 22 activists detained during the incident.

According to police statements, those arrested during the #EndSARS anniversary protests were released later in the day. Demonstrators had gathered around 8:30 a.m. at the toll gate, holding banners and placards demanding the full implementation of the reports submitted by various judicial panels of inquiry established after the 2020 protests against police brutality.

RULAAC Executive Director Okechukwu Nwanguma expressed serious concerns about the government’s actions, stating, “These actions raise serious concerns about the government’s violation of citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and assembly.” He emphasized that the protest was a vital memorial event to honor victims and advocate for justice and reforms in the security sector. Nwanguma criticized the authorities’ response, describing it as part of an alarming trend of suppressing citizens’ rights and activism regarding police brutality and governance in Nigeria.

Additionally, Amnesty International has raised alarms about ongoing human rights violations by the police, including unlawful detention, extortion, torture, and sexual violence, four years after the #EndSARS protests. The organization highlighted the need for accountability and reform to address these persistent issues in the country.

Ride-hailing platform Bolt, in collaboration with the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) in Abuja, has called on couriers operating within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to prioritize safety and responsible driving practices. This was highlighted during a recent workshop titled “Empowering Riders for Safe Delivery Journeys,” aimed at minimizing risks associated with delivery operations.

The workshop featured the launch of a new safety jacket specifically designed for couriers in the FCT. This high-visibility jacket aims to enhance riders’ visibility on the roads, particularly during low-light conditions, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and promoting public safety.

Weyinmi Aghadiuno, Acting Head of Regulatory & Policy Africa at Bolt, emphasized the company’s commitment to safety: “At Bolt, safety is at the heart of our operations. We understand the rapid growth of the delivery sector and the responsibility it brings to ensure that every rider is well-equipped to operate safely. Today’s workshop reflects our joint commitment to this goal.”

Chinedu Elechi, Mandate Secretary for Transportation in the FCT, praised Bolt Nigeria for its dedication to road traffic safety. He remarked, “Together, we are demonstrating that safety is not an individual responsibility but a shared priority for all stakeholders involved. As we move forward, I assure you that the FCT Administration will continue to introduce and implement policies that support safer road practices and better working conditions for delivery riders and other road users.”

The workshop included various safety-focused sessions tailored for couriers, covering topics such as traffic laws, defensive driving strategies, and best practices for safe and responsible delivery operations. This initiative aims to equip riders with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate the challenges of their roles effectively and safely.

The rapidly rising water level of River Benue has led to significant flooding in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, displacing hundreds of families, especially those living within one to two kilometers of the riverbank.

Recent observations by Vanguard reveal that several communities, including Agwan Jukun in Wurukum, Kilometre 3 near the Judges Quarters, Wadata, Gyado Villa, and Agbouhoul, have been severely affected by the floods. The water has encroached upon the perimeter fence of the Airforce Quarters at Wurukum Roundabout, forcing nearby mechanic workshops to abandon operations.

Key commercial areas, such as the Wurukum abattoir, plank market, and rice mill, are under threat as the water continues to rise, prompting thousands of residents to flee their homes. Business owners in these areas have been forced to shut down operations and evacuate their goods to safety.

Mr. Sunny Ntenba, a resident whose home near Kyabis Hotel on Kilometre 3, Gboko Road, has been submerged, shared his experience of the situation. He stated that he had to move his family and belongings to temporary shelter provided by a friend. “The water level started rising days ago, and instead of receding, it kept increasing. Some of us left early, remembering past flooding incidents caused by the release of excess water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon,” he recounted.

While Mr. Ntenba was fortunate enough to relocate his family and property in time, he noted that his house remains partially submerged. He expressed concerns about returning home, stating he does not expect to do so until next month. In light of these ongoing challenges, he appealed to the federal government to take measures, such as dredging the River Benue, to mitigate the recurring floods that continue to affect Makurdi residents.

The Labour Party (LP) in Kaduna State has categorically rejected the results of the recent local government elections held on October 19, 2024, declaring its intention to pursue justice through the courts. In a statement issued by Elder Yusuf Solomon Danbaki, the Chairman of the Labour Party Caretaker Committee, the party alleged that the election was marred by significant electoral fraud.

Danbaki asserted that, contrary to official announcements, the election never occurred as reported. He claimed that Hajiya Hajara Mohammed, the Chairman of the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIECOM), appeared to be acting under duress while declaring all 23 chairmanship and 255 councillorship positions as won by the All Progressives Congress (APC), even as voters awaited essential materials necessary for the election process.

The Labour Party accused SIECOM of deliberately withholding vital election materials, such as ballot boxes and result sheets, in several polling units, effectively rendering the election process nonexistent. Furthermore, the party claimed that SIECOM imposed illegal fees on candidates, requiring ₦2 million from chairmanship candidates and ₦500,000 from councillorship candidates, despite receiving funding from the state government.

Danbaki also expressed concerns about the legitimacy of APC candidates, alleging they were not selected through democratic primaries but were instead handpicked by the governor, undermining internal democracy and electoral integrity in the state. He remarked, “This lack of internal democracy is another indicator that puts our democracy in danger.”

The party criticized the conduct of SIECOM Chairperson during the results announcement, noting her visible distress, which suggested she was pressured to announce the fraudulent results.

In their statement, the Labour Party outlined several demands, including the nullification of the election results, an investigation into the illegal fees imposed on candidates, and the conduct of a fresh election under fair and transparent conditions. They called on the judiciary to uphold justice for those whose rights were violated and announced plans to file a lawsuit challenging the legitimacy of the results.

Additionally, the Labour Party committed to launching a public awareness campaign to inform citizens of their rights and planned to protest against the alleged electoral malpractice. They urged civil society organizations and international bodies to condemn SIECOM’s actions and called for immediate electoral reforms to prevent further erosion of democratic values in Kaduna State.

Danbaki concluded the statement with a strong warning: “If we do not take action now against this moral decay within our political system, we risk allowing it to consume not only Kaduna State but also Nigeria as a whole by 2027.”

The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has officially congratulated Nigeria for its significant progress in the aviation sector. This commendation was expressed by ITF General Secretary in an email to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, during the closing session of the 46th ITF Congress.

The ITF highlighted Nigeria’s impressive achievement of a global compliance score of 75.5 percent under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Cape Town Convention. The organization emphasized the importance of this milestone for Nigeria’s aviation industry, stating, “This achievement provides Nigeria with a platform to further develop a robust regional aviation industry based on the principles of decent work, economic development, and environmental sustainability.”

In addition, the ITF praised the leadership and dedication of the Nigerian government, particularly acknowledging Minister Festus Keyamo for his unwavering commitment to advancing the sector. “We thank the Nigerian government and Honourable Minister Festus Keyamo for his steadfast efforts. We were honored by his presence at the 46th ITF Congress and look forward to continued collaboration in advancing aviation standards globally,” the ITF’s message noted.

The ITF Congress serves as a significant platform for transportation workers and stakeholders, focusing on critical issues affecting the global transport industry. Nigeria’s notable compliance score under the Cape Town Convention reflects the country’s growing influence and commitment to meeting international aviation standards, further solidifying its position in the global aviation landscape.

The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Mr. Olanrewaju Ishola, has ordered the release of all individuals detained in connection with the #EndSARS 4th anniversary protests at the Lekki Toll Gate on Sunday. This announcement was made by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, via a statement on his X handle.

Hundeyin did not specify the number of individuals who were detained during the protests. He confirmed, “All protesters in our custody have been released,” adding that CP Ishola was present at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to personally oversee the release process.

The #EndSARS movement began on October 20, 2020, as a response to the alleged misconduct of the police Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). While the protests resulted in the disbandment of SARS, they also led to violence, with reports of police officers being killed and significant damage to government property, including police stations and public transport facilities.

The police’s decision to release the detained protesters reflects an effort to ease tensions and promote dialogue following the anniversary of a movement that has had a lasting impact on the discourse around police reform and human rights in Nigeria.

Amnesty International Nigeria has raised alarms over persistent human rights abuses by the Nigeria Police, including unlawful detention, extortion, torture, and sexual violence, four years after the October 2020 #EndSARS protests.

The nationwide protests, held from October 1 to 20, 2020, aimed to end police brutality, particularly targeting the now-defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). However, the demonstrations were abruptly halted on October 20, 2020, following tragic incidents at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos, where lives were lost during an alleged military shootout.

In a statement released on Sunday, Amnesty International called on the Nigerian government to address these ongoing human rights violations, which continue to foster a culture of impunity and leave citizens vulnerable to the same abuses that sparked the #EndSARS movement.

Isa Sanusi, the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, stated, “Amnesty International continues to receive—almost daily—reports of human rights violations by the police across Nigeria, including unlawful detention, extortion, torture, sexual violence, and in some cases, extrajudicial execution. The Nigerian authorities still have the opportunity to reform the police and create an institution with zero tolerance for human rights violations.”

Sanusi emphasized that the authorities must not let this opportunity slip away by failing to hold the police accountable for their actions. He warned that the situation is gradually reverting to the horrific pre-#EndSARS days, where police officers feel free to violate human rights without consequence.

He further stressed that the Nigerian authorities’ promises to address these violations must be fulfilled to comply with both Nigerian and international law, insisting that all atrocities surrounding the #EndSARS protests need thorough investigations, with perpetrators brought to justice.

Amnesty highlighted several cases of judicial execution by the police in the four years since the protests. Notable incidents include:

• Jumoke Oyeleke (25), shot on July 3, 2021, during a Yoruba nation rally in Lagos.
• Mosurat Ojuade, an 18-year-old fashion designer, killed by police on September 11, 2021.
• Paul Durowaiye, shot over a dispute regarding sachet water on January 22, 2022.

Amnesty International’s statement underscores the urgent need for reforms within the Nigerian police to prevent further violations and protect the rights of citizens.

Organized Labour in Niger State has firmly declared that workers will accept nothing less than the new minimum wage in October. However, the Union expressed a willingness to postpone the payment of October salaries if it ensures the implementation of the new wage in subsequent months.

In a press briefing in Minna, the state capital, Comrade Idrees Abdulkareem Lafene, Chairman of the Niger State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), emphasized that workers have been patient and are now awaiting action on the new minimum wage.

“We have already communicated with the State Government regarding our readiness to delay the October salary payment in exchange for the new minimum wage being implemented thereafter,” he stated. “We will not settle for anything less than the new minimum wage in October.”

Lafene mentioned that discussions with the state government are ongoing and expressed hope for a prompt implementation of the new wage. “We have even agreed that if the state government cannot exceed the amount set by the Federal Government, it should at least adopt the approved figure to maintain peace.”

Despite these developments, Lafene voiced concerns about the implementation of the new minimum wage across all 25 local government areas, citing variations in staff strength and existing salary disparities.

“We have met with State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, who assured us that there would be no issues at the state level regarding implementation. However, he expressed concerns about local governments, where salaries are nearly four times higher than those at the state level.”

The NLC Chairman urged local government chairpersons to explore alternative solutions for implementing the new minimum wage, asserting that any agreement made with the Niger State Government will be binding on all chairpersons.

While the state government has agreed in principle to pay the new minimum wage of N70,000 to workers, a specific date for its implementation has yet to be announced.

The Nigerian Army has categorically dismissed speculations claiming that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has died, labeling the reports as fake news. The headquarters, via its official X handle, @HQNigerianArmy, refuted an online report that circulated on Sunday, stating, “Chief of Army Staff dies of cancer.”

The report claimed that Lt. Gen. Lagbaja passed away in an undisclosed hospital overseas nearly 48 hours ago due to stage three cancer, according to a senior government official. Furthermore, the report alleged that the news of the Chief of Army Staff’s death had been kept secret due to intense lobbying by some Army Generals seeking to assume his position.

However, the army described the report as fake, stating: “Please, disregard the rumors circulating about the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. The false reports purported by unverifiable sources are baseless and misleading.”

The public is advised to rely on credible sources for information and to disregard such misinformation from unreliable sources. Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, in Ilobu, Osun State, was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023 as the 27th Chief of Army Staff. The Army Headquarters continues to assert the importance of accurate information and has urged the public to disregard any unverified reports regarding the health or status of its leadership.

PRESIDENCY REACTS

Also reacting, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Tinubu, Bayo Onanuga, via his X platform, dismissed the alleged death of Lagbaja. He stated: “Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, has dismissed fake reports about the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.”

Liverpool passed a major test of their Premier League title credentials to move back to the top of the table by beating Chelsea 2-1 at Anfield on Sunday. Mohamed Salah’s penalty and Curtis Jones’ winner made it 10 wins in 11 games for the Reds since Arne Slot took charge.

Nicolas Jackson briefly leveled for Chelsea in the second half, but they slipped to a first league defeat since losing to Manchester City on the opening weekend of the season. Victory takes Liverpool one point ahead of City and four clear of Arsenal, who they face at the Emirates next weekend.

Chelsea are now seven points off the top, down in sixth, but there was plenty of cause for optimism for the Blues from a performance that stretched Liverpool to their limits. Liverpool’s only defeat under Slot came to Nottingham Forest following September’s international break.

The Dutchman responded by this time leaving all of his South American internationals—Alexis Mac Allister, Luis Diaz, and Darwin Nunez—on the bench after their exertions in recent days across the Atlantic. The decision to hand Jones just his second league start of the season proved an inspired one as the England international won Liverpool’s penalty and scored the decisive goal.

Chelsea were fortunate still to have 11 men on the field after just six minutes when Tosin Adarabioyo hauled down Diogo Jota. The Portugal international was still a long way from goal, but the incident was almost identical to the one that saw Arsenal defender William Saliba sent off in a 2-0 defeat at Bournemouth on Saturday.

Having survived that scare, Chelsea settled nicely into their rhythm and pushed the home side back by dominating possession. However, Liverpool’s pace on the break was a constant threat, and Chelsea were caught out when Salah fed Jones, who was chopped down by Levi Colwill. Salah slammed home his 10th goal against his former club from the resulting penalty.

Moments later, Cody Gakpo slotted in at the end of a lightning Liverpool counter-attack, but Salah had strayed offside before delivering the assist. At the other end, Jackson smashed off the angle of post and bar in the first sign that Chelsea had some punch to their possession football.

The monarch, who led a large delegation of his cabinet members on a condolence visit to Governor Umar Namadi, said the incident, though an act of Allah, has left many voids in the lives of the people. He expressed particular concern over the number of youths affected by the tragedy, hoping the government would take proactive steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Kano monarch, accompanied by the host Emir of Dutse, Hamim Nuhu Muhammad Sanusi, said, “I have come to express my deepest condolences to you and the people of Majia on behalf of the Kano emirate. This visit has become necessary because of the long-standing relationship between Kano and Jigawa states, and considering that the District Head of Majia is our younger brother in Kano.

“We’re also worried about the number of youths that were affected by this unfortunate incident. Even if it’s only one life that was lost, it matters—not to talk about close to 200 lives that were destroyed.

“With this kind of death, we can only pray to Allah SWT to grant them rest in Janatul Firdaus, and for those who are in the various hospitals, we pray for their quick recovery. We sympathize with you and your government.”

The monarch applauded the governor for the swift manner in which he has handled the situation since it occurred, as well as for the way he has been managing the state’s affairs. The Emir recalled a recent meeting with the British envoy in Nigeria, who, during their discussion, “was praising your administration. So, we must learn to acknowledge it if someone does something well, not only to criticize.”

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has appointed Ben Iloanusi as the acting Managing Director following the completion of Fidet Okhiria’s tenure. This announcement was made in a statement on Sunday by Yakub Mahmood, the Deputy Director of Public Relations at NRC.

Okhiria concluded his second four-year term on October 18 and officially handed over responsibilities to Iloanusi. Mahmood noted that Iloanusi, who has been with the NRC since 2011, is the most senior executive director in the organization, having previously served as the Deputy Director of Procurement since 2019.

Iloanusi holds a degree in Political Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in International Management from South Bank University in London, United Kingdom.

In his farewell speech, Okhiria expressed gratitude to the entire NRC team for their support during his time as Managing Director. He urged the staff to extend the same cooperation and understanding to his successor, stating, “I enjoin the management and staff of the corporation to extend the same cooperation and understanding to the acting Managing Director.”

In response, Iloanusi called for the support of NRC staff and welcomed constructive criticism to help advance the organization. He expressed his commitment to leading the corporation effectively during this transition period.

The Enugu State Government has officially dismissed the illegal sit-at-home order issued by faceless individuals, asserting that the state has moved beyond such disruptions. Citizens have been directed to continue their lawful businesses, as security agencies have adequately covered every part of Enugu State to ensure the safety of lives and property.

In conjunction with this, the Enugu State Command of the Nigeria Police has also countered the sit-at-home advisory from criminal elements, warning that any attempt to disrupt peace and security in the state would be met with “decisive action.”

In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the government addressed a circulating video from a criminal element encouraging the people of the Southeast region to observe a sit-at-home order on Monday and Tuesday of this week.

Onyia stated, “The Enugu State Government frowns at such impudence. The state has since gone past that dark and ignominious era when criminals and never-do-wells determined when people should go about their lawful businesses or sit at home against their will.

“For emphasis and clarity, the government reiterates to our citizens—civil servants, traders, farmers, students, and business owners—that there will be no sit-at-home in any inch of the state. Citizens should go about their lawful businesses.”

He further emphasized that the Dr. Peter Mbah Administration has demonstrated the will and capacity to maintain safety in the state, having put in place adequate security arrangements and infrastructure to track down and deal with any criminal activities.

Additionally, the police command, represented by Police Public Relations Officer DSP Daniel Ndukwe, urged citizens to continue with their daily activities. The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, described the advice for a sit-at-home as baseless and unwarranted, branding it a deliberate attempt to incite fear and unrest in the state.

The Nigerian Army has officially retired 15 generals from the Artillery Corps during a ceremony held at the Nigerian Army School of Artillery (NASA) in Kachia, Kaduna State. This group of retirees includes 11 Major Generals and 4 Brigadier Generals.

Maj Gen James Myam (rtd) represented the retired officers at the pulling-out parade, reflecting on their lengthy military careers with a sense of fulfillment and gratitude. He attributed their successes to divine grace, acknowledging God’s protection throughout their years of service. Myam also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, wishing him continued strength and wisdom in his leadership of the Nigerian Army.

Looking back on their military journeys, Maj Gen Myam recalled their initial days at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna as Officer Cadets. He advised current officers to remain loyal to the Constitution and the democratically elected government, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and security consciousness.

Additionally, the retired general expressed gratitude to their families, spouses, friends, instructors, and mentors who supported them throughout their careers. The ceremony was attended by several senior retired and serving military officers, including former Chief of Army Staff, Maj Gen Alwali Kazir (rtd).

The Department of State Service (DSS) has officially appointed Rasheed Atanda Lawal, a Deputy Director, as the new Chief Security Officer (CSO) to President Bola Tinubu, replacing Adegboyega Fasasi.

Details surrounding this transition remain limited as of Sunday evening. However, sources indicate that Fasasi, who has held the CSO position since Tinubu’s inauguration, is stepping down to pursue a professional training course.

Insiders reveal that DSS Director-General Tosin Ajayi sought President Tinubu’s approval to release Fasasi for this strategic training opportunity. While there has been speculation about potential controversies surrounding the change, sources familiar with the situation emphasize that such transitions are not uncommon within the agency.

“It’s not unusual for changes like this to occur when a new DG is appointed at the DSS,” noted one anonymous source. “Typically, the new Director-General prefers to install trusted personnel in key positions, especially in sensitive areas like the President’s security.”

While Fasasi’s removal is officially linked to his training, the source acknowledged that underlying issues may sometimes influence such decisions. Nevertheless, they stressed that this should not be viewed as alarming, framing it as a standard practice in security operations.

As of the time of this report, no official confirmation has been provided regarding the changes in the CSO’s office. However, another source reassured that the situation should be regarded as a routine security posting, consistent with the operational protocols of the DSS.

The National Assembly (NASS) is advancing a proposal to reintroduce a 5% excise duty on telecommunications and betting services in Nigeria, despite a previous exemption granted by former President Muhammadu Buhari. This initiative aims to impose the excise duty across various sectors, including telecommunications, gaming, betting, and lottery activities nationwide.

The move to reinstate the excise duty comes in the wake of President Bola Tinubu’s executive orders on July 6, 2023, which temporarily suspended the 5% excise tax on telecommunications. The suspension was intended to alleviate the financial burden on both businesses and households in the country, particularly during challenging economic conditions.

The proposed reintroduction of the excise duty is encapsulated in an executive bill known as the “Nigeria Tax Bill 2024.” Key aspects of the bill include:

• Taxable Services: The bill specifies that services such as telecommunications, gaming, gambling, betting, and lotteries will be subject to excise duties. The rates for these duties are outlined in the Tenth Schedule of the Act.
• Tax Assessment: The taxable amount will be determined based on the charges levied by service providers, either in monetary terms or equivalent value. This means that the excise duty will apply to the services as provided, regardless of their form.
• Currency Exchange Transactions: The legislation includes provisions related to currency exchange transactions involving the naira. Transactions must not exceed the prevailing official market rate authorized by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Any amount exceeding this rate will be subject to excise duty, which will be assessed based on self-assessment methods in line with the Nigeria Tax Administration Act.

The reintroduction of the excise duty is likely to have several implications:

1. Impact on Consumers: The excise duty may lead to increased costs for telecommunications and betting services, potentially affecting affordability for consumers.
2. Revenue Generation: The government aims to bolster its revenue streams through this duty, which could assist in funding various developmental projects and initiatives.
3. Business Environment: The move may impact the business landscape, particularly in the telecommunications sector, which had previously enjoyed a reprieve from this financial obligation. Companies may need to adjust their pricing strategies to accommodate the new tax.

As the National Assembly pushes for the reintroduction of the 5% excise duty on telecommunications and betting services, stakeholders across various sectors will be closely monitoring the developments. The outcomes of this legislative proposal will play a significant role in shaping the economic landscape in Nigeria, influencing both consumer behavior and the operational strategies of service providers.

The establishment and operational powers of government authorities, particularly concerning their ability to arrest and detain civilians, have been a subject of considerable legal scrutiny in Nigeria. This paper investigates whether the Federal Legislature possesses the constitutional legislative authority to grant the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) the power to arrest and detain civilians, especially in periods devoid of a state of emergency.

Framework of Nigerian Federalism

The Federal Republic of Nigeria comprises a federation of states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), overseen by the President, the National Assembly, and the judiciary. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFRN) serves as the legal foundation for governance, encapsulating both federal and state legislatures. According to Section 2 of the CFRN, the administration of Nigeria is a collaborative effort between the federal and state authorities, with specific roles delineated for each level of government.

1. Legislative Powers: The National Assembly is empowered to enact laws concerning matters listed in the Exclusive and Concurrent Legislative Lists, as specified in sections 4 and 7 of the CFRN. The Exclusive Legislative List grants the National Assembly sole authority to legislate on specific issues, while the Concurrent Legislative List allows both federal and state legislatures to enact laws on shared matters.
2. Establishment of Security Authorities: The National Assembly can create government authorities, including security services, as part of its legislative powers. This is evident in Item 60(a) of Part I of the Second Schedule to the CFRN, which empowers the National Assembly to establish authorities to promote and enforce fundamental objectives and directive principles, including anti-corruption efforts.

The Role of the EFCC

The EFCC is a statutory body established by the National Assembly with the mandate to combat economic and financial crimes. Its foundation rests on sections 4 and 15(5) of the CFRN and Item 60(a) of the Second Schedule. The commission operates within the framework of federal law, making it a federal authority with jurisdiction to act across states and the FCT.

1. Authority to Arrest and Detain: The power of arrest and detention by the EFCC is primarily derived from its enabling legislation, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act. This act confers the EFCC with powers that include the arrest and detention of individuals suspected of economic and financial crimes, thus expanding its operational capacity beyond mere investigation.
2. Constitutional Limitations: While the EFCC’s powers are well-defined under federal law, it must operate within the confines of the constitution. The CFRN emphasizes that all actions taken by government authorities must adhere to principles of democracy, social justice, and the rule of law, as enshrined in sections 1(2) and 14(1).

Legal Implications of Arrests and Detention

The legality of the EFCC’s power to arrest and detain civilians in periods without a state of emergency hinges on several factors:

1. Constitutional Mandate: The CFRN does not stipulate that arrest and detention powers are contingent upon a state of emergency. Instead, it provides a framework within which federal authorities like the EFCC can operate under established laws.
2. Judicial Oversight: The EFCC’s exercise of its arrest powers must be subject to judicial review, ensuring adherence to due process. This oversight is vital to prevent abuses of power and protect citizens’ rights.
3. Implications for Federalism: The constitution allows for a centralized approach to issues like corruption through federal agencies while recognizing the autonomy of states. Consequently, the EFCC’s actions should not infringe on the rights and freedoms of individuals, aligning with the principles of justice and human rights.

Conclusion

The EFCC, established under federal law, possesses the constitutional authority to arrest and detain civilians in Nigeria, irrespective of a state of emergency. This power is enshrined in its enabling legislation and is part of the broader mandate to combat economic and financial crimes. However, the exercise of these powers must be balanced with respect for the rule of law, ensuring that actions taken by the EFCC remain accountable and just. The interplay between federal and state authority underscores the importance of continuous evaluation of legislative powers within the Nigerian constitutional framework, particularly concerning the protection of citizens’ rights and the promotion of social justice.

In a bid to strengthen border security and improve migration management, Kemi Nandap, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), has extended her assessment tour to Lagos and Ogun States in the Southwest. This initiative aims to reinforce the collective responsibility of securing Nigeria’s extensive borders.

According to a statement from NIS spokesperson KT Udo, the tour is part of a fact-finding and sensitization mission designed to enhance collaboration among stakeholders in combatting trans-border crimes. During her visit to Lagos, Nandap engaged with key figures, including the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Their discussions focused on ways to facilitate the operations of NIS personnel in the state, with the governor expressing his support for the initiatives put forth by the CGIS.

At various locations, including Seme Border and Idiroko, Nandap updated officers on new immigration initiatives that are part of the ongoing effort to modernize Nigeria’s border security infrastructure. She emphasized her commitment to the welfare and capacity building of officers, urging them to uphold high standards of professionalism in their duties.

Additionally, the Comptroller General held a joint security meeting with sister agencies to enhance collaboration in intelligence gathering and sharing. She underscored the crucial role of border communities in supporting national security efforts.

The tour culminated in Ogun State, where Nandap met with traditional rulers, including HRM Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, and HRM Oba Prof. Saka Adeola Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom. She also discussed logistic support and land provision for barracks construction with Ogun State Governor Prince Adedapo Oluseun Abiodun MFR, who was represented by Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele FNSE.

The NIS remains committed to implementing digital strategies aimed at enhancing border governance and national security, further underscoring the importance of effective border management in Nigeria.