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Cerutti Media Group, Abuja (2026)

21/10/2025

USA-Based Abhishek Masapalli Shines in Nigerian Dhabri Outfit

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Abhishek Masapalli, a talented model based in the USA, speaks candidly about his inspiring journey working with Nigeria's international designer Dhabri Khenchy. With a background in fitness influencing his modeling career, Abhishek brings a unique blend of strength and emotion to the runway.

Discipline and Presence: The Foundation of Modeling
For Abhishek, modeling is about expressing discipline and confidence through visual storytelling. His fitness training has instilled patience, control, and focus, translating into a compelling presence on the runway. "Every step on the runway feels like the result of hours of discipline and belief in myself," he shares.

A Partnership with Dhabri Khenchy

Abhishek's collaboration with Dhabri Khenchy has been profoundly inspiring, admiring the designer's ability to blend culture, character, and creativity into fashion. "He doesn’t just create clothes, he creates stories," Abhishek notes, highlighting Khenchy's impact on his own craft.

Cinematic Storytelling through Modeling
With a passion for acting and filmmaking, Abhishek infuses his modeling with cinematic flair, treating each shoot as a scene where expression speaks louder than words. "I don’t just pose — I perform," he says, weaving narrative into every look and movement.

Elevating African Fashion Globally
Abhishek believes African fashion is powerful, rooted in emotion, culture, and creativity. Partnering with Dhabri Khenchy, he aims to showcase this authenticity internationally, fostering cultural connections through fashion. "Fashion becomes stronger when cultures connect," he emphasizes.

Triumph at New York Fashion Week
Representing African fashion at New York Fashion Week was an unforgettable milestone. "I wasn’t just walking; I was representing a culture, a designer, and a part of myself," Abhishek recalls, underscoring the experience's profound impact.

• No doubt a big star is born
© Cerutti M

25/09/2025

THE BIG STAGE IS SET....

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Roadblock Party: Pleasure Dome Official Attendee Guide

Get ready for the most epic party in Lagos! The Roadblock Party: Pleasure Dome is just around the corner, and we've got the scoop on what to expect. Here's your official attendee guide:

*Event Details

- Date: October 4th, 2025
- Venue: Balmoral Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island
- Gates Open: 7:00 PM
- Gates Close: 9:00 PM sharp (no late entry)
- Show Starts: 9:05 PM on the dot

*What to Wear

- Dress Code: All-White or All-Black only (compulsory, no exceptions)

*Security and Restrictions

- Valid ticket or wristband required for entry
- 18+ only - please come with valid ID
- Strictly prohibited:
- Sharp objects
- Weapons
- Outside food/drinks/liquids
- Big bags
- Security checks at entry - cooperate for faster access

*Safety First

- Trained security, medical, and support staff on-site
- Emergency points will be clearly marked
- Don't Drink & Drive - recommended transportation services include Uber, Bolt, or other third-party services

*Ticket Policy

- Tickets are personal
- If you cannot attend, email our support team to transfer your ticket

Join the movement and unite with thousands of like-minded individuals on October 4th. Get your tickets now and experience the ultimate Roadblock Party

© Cerutti Media Group
Stay tune for regular updates Right here

25/09/2025

Here @ Last..... Edo State Quintessential Icons Occasion Set to Honor Eminent Personalities

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The Edo State Quintessential Icons Occasion is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the prestigious Bishop Kelly Center in Benin City. This landmark event will bring together illustrious sons and daughters of Edo State to celebrate excellence, legacy, and contributions of the state's finest. The occasion promises to be a historic gathering of leaders, professionals, and cultural custodians, recognizing Edo State's indelible impact on Nigeria and the world.

*Distinguished Guests and Speakers

The event will be chaired by Chief (Dr.) Leemon Ikpea, Chairman of Lee Engineering and Construction Company Limited, a renowned industrialist and philanthropist. Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, will serve as Chief Host and Special Guest of Honor, while Prof. Sylvester Odion Akhaine, Department of Political Science, Lagos State University, will deliver a keynote address as Chief Guest Speaker. Other notable personalities expected to attend include Chief Mike Oghiadomhe, former Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan; Chief Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion, former Governor of Edo State; and Mr. Adolphus Aghughu, former Auditor-General of the Federation.

*Celebrating Edo Heritage

According to Dr Ave Okojie the event Convener...The Quintessential Icons occasion aims to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the state's development and growth. The event will recognize the achievements of eminent personalities, including Senator Daisy Danjuma, former Senator representing Edo State; High Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, the Ezama of Benin Kingdom; General Cecil Osolase Esekhaigbe (rtd), former Nigerian Defence Attache to the United States of America; and Prof. Mike Ozekhome, among others.

*Prominent Attendance

Some of the prominent attendees include
- *Keynote Speaker:* Prof. Sylvester Odion Akhaine
- *Eminent Personalities:*
- Chief Mike Oghiadomhe
- Chief Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion
- Mr. Adolphus Aghughu
- Senator Daisy Danjuma
- High Chief Gabriel Igbinedion
- General Cecil Osolase Esekhaigbe (rtd)
- Prof. Mike Ozekhome

*A Testament to Edo State's Impact*

The Quintessential Icons occasion is a testament to Edo State's rich cultural heritage and its people who have made a lasting impact on Nigeria and the world. By celebrating the achievements of its finest sons and daughters, the event aims to inspire future generations to strive for excellence and make meaningful contributions to society

© Cerutti Media Group
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25/09/2025

THE WOMAN WHO WANTS TO BE GOVERNOR

By Mike Cerutti O

Inspiring Story of Mrs. Atinuke Okeya-Omolayo

Chief Mrs. Atinuke Okeya-Omolayo's life is a testament to her heritage of leadership and service, born in Emure-Ekiti to a distinguished family. Her academic journey, which began at St. Catherine's Anglican Girls Grammar School in Owo, laid the foundation for her future success. Further studies in London equipped her with the knowledge and versatility to serve both people and institutions. She obtained a Higher National Certificate in Business and Finance from Lewisham College, London, and a Joint Degree in Nursing and Social Work from London South Bank University.

*A Career of Service and Dedication

Mrs. Okeya-Omolayo's remarkable career as a dedicated social worker has touched lives and supported communities in London. Her commitment to public service extends beyond Nigeria's borders, demonstrating her passion for making a positive impact. Her selfless service is a beacon of hope for many, showcasing the joy and fulfillment that comes from giving back to the community. Studies have shown that giving activates certain parts of the brain, releasing feelings of happiness and fulfillment ¹.

*A Steadfast Member of the APC

Since 1999, Mrs. Okeya-Omolayo has been a consistent, progressive, and loyal member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Her dedication to the party's values and her active participation at the grassroots, state, and national levels have earned her recognition as a reliable and committed member. Her commitment to the party's ideals is a testament to her strong leadership qualities and vision for a better society.

*Family Life and Community Building

As a proud mother of three successful children, Mrs. Okeya-Omolayo's life story reflects resilience, balance, and a deep devotion to both family and community. Her journey is a testament to commitment, progress, and resilience, making her a beacon of hope and leadership for Ekiti State and Nigeria. Her ability to balance family life and community service is an inspiration to many, demonstrating the importance of prioritizing relationships and giving back.

*A Legacy of Inspiration and Service

Mrs. Atinuke Okeya-Omolayo's story is one of inspiration, dedication, and service. Her roots in Ekiti State's proud tradition of leadership, her global training, and her professional accomplishments make her a remarkable individual. As she continues to serve and inspire others, her legacy will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on her community and beyond, leaving a ripple effect of kindness and generosity

© Cerutti is the publisher of the international magazine brand called Richlist www.richlist.com.ng
He can be contacted via [email protected] or SMS WhatsApp network+234 7042631895

21/09/2025

Yoruba Council, others appraise Dangote Refinery, Warns DAPMAN, NUPENG, IPMAN To Stop Peddling Misinformation.
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The apex umbrella body for all Yoruba indigenous people globally, Yoruba Council Worldwide (Igbimo Apapo Yoruba Lagbaye) led by Aare Oladotun Hassan Esq alongside over 30 Civil Society groups have appraised Dangote Refinery over constant reduction in price of petrol products.

The group led by Aare Hassan on Friday paid courtsey visit to the refinery saying they were proud to mobilise supports for Alhaji Aliko Dangote and the entire management of Dangote Refinery over the recent embroiled crises with the DAPMAN, NUPENG, IPMAN and other oil and gas Unions on petrol price.

The group leader added that Dangote Refinery was a huge blessing and has indeed come to stay.

According to him, having surmounted the courage to dismantle the entrenched oil cabals all of whom are conniving to destroy Nigerian masses with deadly venomous policies of fuel subsidies, unholy N70 charges per each litre by NUPENG and other unions aimed at stagnating the nation.

"We have watched with keen interest to dissect the real issues, all we see is hatred, misinformation, misconception and lies of monopoly cries.

Rather than hailing the courage of Dangote Refinery who stood against all odds to defeat the process pressure and market disruption with his 650,000 bpd capacity alongside with the 4000 CNG trucks tankers and 6000 truck cargoes totalling 10000 trucks costing 2trillion Naira to move the products to the consumers at no cost ,with value added of over 40,000 jobs capacity.

We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure high tariffs increase to discourage fuel importation and add increased crude supply to Dangote Refinery with licence for oil exploration.

Hassan said that the group wanted the president to nationalise oil well so as to allow for proper dredging which majority licensed sites were desolate and moribund.

He also implored all Nigerian citizens to rally maximum support and protect the laudable investment of Dangote's Refinery, having succeeded to uproot the cabals in the sugar and cement industries, with little or no dependent on importation presently.

"Hence the need to end the agelong pains and agony of fuel importation leading to aggravated injustice.

"Dangote is a patriotic Nigerian per excellence who put his all to offer Nigerians with reliefs and smiles by reducing the price of Petroleum PMS from 1030 to 851.

"Dangote Refinery also reduced Diesel from 1,700 to 1020 just within a year. With huge storage capacity to sustain Nigeria. A great landmark targeted towards building Nigeria of our dream.

"We thereby warn the aforementioned cohorts of unions to stop peddling lies against Dangote Refinery, while saluting Mr Devakumar V. G. Edwin, the Vice President, Oil & Gas Petroleum and Petrochemical Industry Limited who represented Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President, Dangote Group at the visit.

The group leader said that the onsite assessment was carried out on the Dangote Refinery premises wherein it was unanimously agreed that the Refinery was exceptionally excellent, in accordance with global best standard practice and capacity.

According to him, we are indeed proud of Alhaji Aliko Dangote, precipitating our resolution to confer on him the prestigious Omoluabi Royal Icon title of Aare Atunluse Omoluabi Oodua Agbaye, in due recognition of his uncommon patriotic spirit and positive impacts as an industrialist rather than business mentality.

"We therefore equally used the opportunity to present his nomination letter as recipient of the Nigeria Heroes Awards as Legend of Democracy slated for October, 10 2025 at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, A*o Rock, FCT, Abuja.

21/09/2025

Esama Of Edo Kingdom 91 Years birthday...Professor Charles E. Orbih from USA pays glowing tribute

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Days after the Esama of Benin Kingdom, High Chief Sir Gabriel Igbinedion, celebrated his 91st birthday, tributes are still pouring in from far and wide. One such heartfelt tribute came from America, where Professor Charles E. Orbih, President of Ogbona Diaspora USA and Co-Founder of Nigeria Diaspora Coalition for Change, penned a heartfelt message to the revered monarch.
In his birthday felicitations, Professor Orbih extolled the virtues of the Esama, highlighting his remarkable life of philanthropy, entrepreneurship, governance, and contributions to public education.

The tribute noted that the Esama's life is a living testament to the timeless truth that "a child who walks with wisdom walks with honor." His generosity and prosperity have blessed the land, and his legacy continues to inspire generations. The message conveyed warm wishes for the Esama's continued strength, longevity, and blessings for his lineage.

Professor Orbih's tribute is a reflection of the profound impact the Esama has had on the lives of many. His commitment to the development of Edo State and Nigeria has earned him widespread admiration and respect. As the Esama celebrates this milestone birthday, he is reminded of the enduring legacy he has built and the countless lives he has touched.

The Esama's 91st birthday celebration was a testament to his enduring spirit and vitality. Despite his advanced age, he remains a shining light for Edo State and Nigeria, inspiring others with his wisdom, generosity, and leadership. His life is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and service to others.

As tributes continue to pour in, the Esama is celebrated not only for his achievements but also for his humility and kindness. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life of purpose and service to others. The Esama's impact on the Benin Kingdom and beyond is immeasurable, and his contributions will continue to be felt for generations to come.

The message from Professor Orbih concluded with warm birthday wishes, praying that the Esama's days be long, his wisdom evergreen, and his lineage forever blessed. This sentiment echoes the feelings of many who have been touched by the Esama's life and legacy.

As the Esama looks back on his remarkable life, he can take pride in the countless lives he has impacted and the enduring legacy he has built. His story serves as an inspiration to others, reminding them of the importance of living a life of purpose, service, and generosity.
© Cerutti Media Group
www.worldindustryleaders.com
www.richlist.com.ng
" The Dr platform that celebrates excellence"

19/09/2025

Goodluck Jonathan, Prof Mike Ozekhome SAN Celebrates 20 years of Solid friendship

•A heartwarming celebration of friendship was witnessed when two close friends, former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN CON OFR, reunited with their children, Bar Osikhuemhe Mike Ozekhome and Mr. Ejiro Mbah. This special moment marked two decades of a strong and enduring bond between the two leaders. Their friendship, built on mutual respect, trust, and shared values, serves as an inspiration to many.

The meeting showcased the depth of their relationship, which has stood the test of time. Despite their busy schedules, they have managed to maintain a close connection, and their children have grown up witnessing the strength of their friendship. This reunion is a testament to the power of genuine relationships and the importance of nurturing them over time.

After the meeting, Prof. Ozekhome shared valuable insights on building long-lasting and loyal relationships with Cerutti Media Group . He offered five key tips that can help individuals foster strong bonds with others. These tips are likely to resonate with many, given the professor's vast experience and reputation for wisdom. His advice serves as a guide for those seeking to build meaningful relationships that can withstand the challenges of life.

The five tips provided by Prof. Ozekhome are expected to be practical and actionable, drawing from his own experiences and it is clear that they are rooted in his understanding of human relationships and the importance of empathy, communication, and mutual respect. His willingness to share these insights with others is a reflection of his commitment to helping people build stronger connections.

The reunion between Dr. Jonathan, Prof. Ozekhome, and their children is a reminder that true friendships can endure even as circumstances change. As they celebrated twenty years of friendship, they set an example for others to prioritize relationships and invest in the people who matter most. Their bond is a testament to the power of friendship and the positive impact it can have on our lives.

© Cerutti Media Group
www.worldindustryleaders.com
~ All Rights Reserved

11/09/2025

Historical Landmark Celebration..... The living legend Sir Igbinedion @ 90 Tribute from legal giant ,Prof Mike Ozekhome, SAN,CON, OFR

By Mike Cerutti O
Publisher RichList Magazine

🎉

As the kingdom of Benin celebrates the life and legacy of High Chief (Sir) Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion,a Legend who has left an indelible mark on the nation's history, Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, CON, OFR, a legal giant and nation-builder, paid a glowing tribute to the Esama of Benin Kingdom. Describing Igbinedion as a true sage, legend, and colossus, Ozekhome celebrates the chief's remarkable life, which has been a testament to wisdom, resilience, generosity, and inspiration.

*A Life of Wisdom and Resilience

Prof Ozekhome notes that Sir Gabriel Igbinedion's life is a shining example of wisdom and resilience. Despite facing daunting challenges in life, he has remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence, inspiring countless individuals with his remarkable journey. His legacy serves as a beacon of hope for generations to come, reminding them that with determination and hard work, they can overcome all obstacles.

*A Colossus in His Own Right

Describing Igbinedion as a colossus, Chief Ozekhome emphasized that the chief's impact on the nation's socio-economic, political and cultural development cannot be overstated. His contributions to the growth and development of Benin Kingdom and Nigeria as a whole are immeasurable. As a remarkable leader, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, guiding his people with wisdom and foresight.

*Happy Birthday to a True Legend

On behalf of his family, Nigerians and the global community, Chief Ozekhome wishes Sir Gabriel Igbinedion a happy birthday, celebrating an incredible individual whose life has been a testament to wisdom, resilience, generosity, and inspiration. This milestone birthday is a testament to the chief's enduring legacy which will continue to inspire generations to come.

*Ten Virtues to Learn

Prof Ozekhome urges young people to learn from Sir Gabriel Igbinedion's remarkable journey in life, highlighting ten virtues that have contributed to his success. These virtues include hard work, determination, resilience, wisdom, generosity, humility, kindness, compassion, integrity, and leadership. By emulating these virtues, young people can achieve their full potential and make a positive impact on their communities,he counsels.

*A Role Model for Youths

As a role model for youths, Sir Gabriel Igbinedion's life serves as a powerful reminder that success is within reach with hard work and determination. His legacy inspires young people to strive for excellence, pushing them to reach new incredible heights and make a meaningful contribution to society.

*Inspiring Future Generations

Chief Ozekhome emphasized that Sir Gabriel Igbinedion's legacy will continue to inspire future generationsm He reminds the youth of the importance of wisdom, resilience, and generosity. As a respected leader, he has demonstrated that true greatness is achieved not through fat bank accounts,but through selfless service to others, leaving a lasting impact on the world.

*A Testament to Greatness

The celebration of Sir Gabriel Igbinedion's life is a testament to greatness. It highlights the impact one individual can have on the world. His remarkable journey serves as a reminder that with dedication and perseverance, anyone and everyone can achieve their goals and make a lasting difference.

*A Legacy that Endures

As the nation celebrates Sir Gabriel Igbinedion's birthday, his legacy will endure, for it inspire countless individuals to strive for excellence. His grass-to-grace life serves as a powerful reminder that true greatness is achieved through service to others, by leaving a lasting imprint on the world.

*A Birthday Celebration like No Other

The birthday celebration of High Chief Sir Gabriel Igbinedion is a momentous occasion, marking the life of a true living legend. As the nation comes together to honour this extraordinary individual, his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.Happy birthday, sir.

© Cerutti Media Group

10/09/2025

PRESS STATEMENT....Ossiomo Power Scandal: Stakeholders Expose Obaseki’s ‘Legacy Project’ as Private Venture, Not Edo State-Owned

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Benin City,Edo state -A high-level stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Edo State Electrification Agency has revealed that the Ossiomo Power Project, previously touted as a flagship achievement of former Governor Godwin Obaseki's administration, is neither owned by Edo State nor does the government hold any stake in it.

The meeting, held at the John Odigie-Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) in Benin City, exposed the project as a private venture with no government equity interest. Hon. Saturday Egbadon, Managing Director of the Edo State Electrification Agency, clarified that the state government is merely a customer of the privately-owned Ossiomo Power Plant.

"The government of Edo State is simply a customer of Ossiomo Power, as established by the last administration. The current shutdown is the outcome of a commercial dispute between Ossiomo Power and its Chinese partner, CCETC, not an action of the state government," Egbadon explained.

The state government has engaged the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) to take over supply responsibilities for all consumers previously connected to Ossiomo’s 11KV lines, including government offices, institutions, and private businesses. BEDC has pledged to absorb Ossiomo's stranded customers and migrate them to Band A feeders with guaranteed service levels of 20-24 hours daily.

Stakeholders and customers present at the meeting expressed relief at the intervention, describing the deliberations as fruitful. The Ossiomo debacle raises questions about transparency, sustainability, and the integrity of projects marketed as flagship state initiatives

04/09/2025

Big Stage Set for International Designer Dhabri- Khenchy's 2027 Fashion Show Extravaganza

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The High style world is set to be abuzz with excitement as international designer Dhabri Khenchy prepares to dazzle audiences with his upcoming fashion show extravaganza. Scheduled to take place on September 27, 2027, at 8pm at Odabro Lounge, 132 South Essex Avenue, Orange, NJ, this highly anticipated event promises to be a night to remember. With exclusive passage,fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders alike will gather to witness the unveiling of Khenchy's latest designs.

*A Night of Cultural Sound Inspired Style

Dhabri Khenchy's fashion shows are renowned for their unique blend of cultural sound inspired style and cutting-edge designs. Having showcased his essence on almost every continent, Khenchy's reputation as an international acclaimed designer is well-established. This upcoming event promises to be no exception, with attendees expecting to be treated to a visual feast of stunning garments and accessories.

*A Global Fashion Icon

With a career spanning multiple continents and numerous high-profile fashion shows, Dhabri Khenchy has solidified his position as a global fashion icon. His designs have been praised for their innovative approach to fashion, blending traditional and modern elements to create truly breathtaking pieces. This upcoming fashion show is expected to further cement Khenchy's reputation as a master of his craft.

*Get Ready for an Unforgettable Night

As the countdown to the event begins, fashion enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to witness Khenchy's latest creations on the runway. With its unique blend of style, culture, and entertainment, this fashion show promises to be an unforgettable night that will leave attendees in awe. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the magic of Dhabri Khenchy's designs live on stage.

*Event Details

The Dhabri Khenchy Fashion Show Extravaganza will take place on September 27, 2027, at 8pm at Odabro Lounge, 132 South Essex Avenue, Orange, NJ. Tickets are available and attendees can expect an evening of stunning fashion, cultural sound inspired style, and entertainment. Don't miss out on this opportunity to witness the artistry of one of the world's most renowned fashion designers.

© Cerutti Media Group
www.worldindustryleaders.com
www.richlist.com.ng
" A platform that celebrate excellence"

03/09/2025

VALIDITY OR OTHERWISE OF THE NBC/GCB’S MANDATORY CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

BY

PROF. MIKE OZEKHOME, SAN, CON, OFR, LL.D

Introduction

The last may not have been heard of the somewhat controversial Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme which the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) appears determined to institutionalize, notwithstanding the resistance of not a few members of the Association whose voices have obviously been drowned. The pushback has however persisted despite the recent endorsement of the programme by the General Council of the Bar (GCB) which has thrown its considerable weight behind the on-going implementation of the Programme.

Laudable as the Programme undoubtedly is however, lingering questions persist about the legal capacity of the GCB to enact the relevant enabling statutory provisions concerning the CPD. Such cannot be swept under the carpet, dismissed with a wave of the hand or wished away simply because of the programme’s salutariness and honest intendment. No. That would be ostrich-like and unbecoming of our noble profession whose members pride themselves as being the sentinels and guard-rails in the larger polity regarding adherence to the rule of law and due process in carrying out things. We should start the cleansing and self-deodorisation from home by embracing abandonment of self-introspection and examination.

Nagging Questions

Are there inherent flaws or defects in the CPD’s statutory provisions which might impinge on its validity or rob it of legitimacy? Can the GCB validly regulate the right of a lawyer who has been duly called to the Bar and is up-to-date in the payment of his practising fees as and when due, as the CPD provisions of the Legal Practitioners Rules of Professional Conduct has done? As between the National Assembly and the GCB, which body is constitutionally competent to make the CPD provisions? To the extent that Section 12(4) of the Legal Practitioners Act simply empowers the General Council of the Bar to “make rules on professional conduct in the legal profession”, can it be extended to include the power to prescribe a course of study, the successful completion of which is a prerequisite for a lawyer's competence or qualification to continue to practice?

Having regards to Item 49 of its Exclusive Legislative List of the Constitution which empowers only the Assembly (in) to regulate “professional occupations as may be designated by (it)”, did the GCB not act in excess of its constitutional powers by enacting Rule 11 of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners, 2023 (RPC), which contains the CPD prescriptions? We shall attempt some answers starting with the latter.

“11 —(I) A lawyer who wishes to carry on practice as a legal practitioner shall participate in and satisfy the requirements of the mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme operated by the Nigerian Bar Association.

(2)The activities in which a lawyer is required to participate for the purpose of the CPD Programme of the Nigerian Bar Association shall include—

a)attendance and participation in accredited courses;

b)lectures, seminars, workshops and conferences law approved by the Nigerian Bar Association.

c)writing on the law and its practice in books or journals and Newspapers approved by the Nigerian Bar Association.

d)(d) study towards professional qualifications approved by the Nigerian Bar Association: and

e)(e) other approved means of acquiring legal professional knowledge and experience.

(3)A lawyer shall be certified as having satisfied the requirement of the CPD Programme if and only if during the relevant year he earns the number of credit hours of participation in the programme which is required under the rules or guidelines made by the Nigerian Bar Association.

(4)Except as may be provided in the rules or guidelines of the Nigerian Bar Association, the number of credit hours required for each year shall be as follows—

a)for lawyers from Admission up to 5 years - 24 hours ;

8b)for lawyers just over five years up to ten years - 18 hours; and

c)for lawyers above ten years - 12 hours.

(5)The Nigerian Bar Association shall establish a Continuing Professional Development Department in its office for the operation of the Programme.

(6)The Nigerian Bar Association shall make rules or guideline for regulating the operation of the CPD Programme and such rules or guideline may provide for—

a)the number of credit hours of participation required of a legal practitioner;

b)the types of activities and studies that are acceptable for earning the credit;

c)persons that may be exempted from the requirements of the Programme; and

d)other matters which in its opinion are necessary for the proper operation of the Programme”

As for the power of the GCB to make rules regulating the conduct of lawyers (vide section 12(4) of the LPA), professional conduct has been defined as “the way, from an ethical point of view, a person behaves professionally towards clients, the employer, other colleagues, citizens in general, the community, the professional group, the environment, other species, and future generations”. See (https://www.igi-global.com/dictionary/professional-conduct/23716). By this definition it is surely far-fetched to conclude that the GCB possess the requisite statutory mandate to regulate or prescribe a course of study of continuing professional development which is the subject of section 11 of the RPC. However, that is not all as we shall see below.

The Legal Regime

The Exclusive Legislative list of the Constitution empowers the National Assembly (NASS) as the sole body responsible for regulating all professions in Nigeria (including, of course, Law). Section 8(2) of the Legal Practitioners Act (LPA) provides, inter alia, that "No legal practitioner shall be accorded the right of audience in any Court in Nigeria in any year unless he has paid to the Registrar in respect of that year, a practice fee as may be prescribed time to time in accordance with the provisions of the section".

The Registrar referred to in the above section l is the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court (Section 24 of the LPA). From the foregoing, it is clear that the provisions of Rule 11(1) of the RPC which purports to make participation in the CPD a condition precedent to be satisfied by a lawyer before he or she can continue “to carry on practice as a legal practitioner” are at odds and definitely contrary to the provisions of section 8(2) of the LPA which simply make the payment of annual practising fees the sole criterion to practise as a Barrister.

Resolving the Conflict

In the above circumstances, the obvious question to be answered is, which as between the provisions of the LPA and RPC supersede the other and which ought to prevail? The answer is, it is submitted, quite obvious: the latter, the LPA, supersedes. This is because it is trite that a subsidiary instrument such as the RPC derives its force legitimacy and validity from its principal or enabling statute and cannot therefore derogate from or contradict same: See THE GOVERNOR OF OYO STATE & ORS. V. OBA OLOLADE FOLAYAN (1995) LLJR-SC; PRINCE BURAIMOH OLANREWAJU V. ALHAJI AMODU OLALEYE OYEYEMI & ORS (2000) JELR 43846 (CA) and KENNEDY v INEC (CA/PH/EPT/350/2007) [2009] NGCA 1 (18 January 2009).Surely, the tail cannot wag the dog, nor can the agent be mightier than the principal.

The Doctrine of Covering the Field

Furthermore, under the doctrine of covering the field, where the National Assembly has enacted a law in respect of a particular matter, no subordinate legislative body can make any other law which has the effect of overriding a law validly enacted by the National Assembly. See HON. MIN. OF JUSTICE & AGF VS. AG OF LAGOS (2013) ALLFWLR Pt.704 pg. 1 and ISHOLA vs. AJIBOYE (1994) 6 NWLR pt. 352 pg.506@ 573D, where the Supreme Court respectively held with great erudition as follows:

-“(the) doctrine of covering the field postulates that where a federal Constitution or a federal enactment has already covered a particular legislative field, no State or even Local Government Law can be enacted to cover the same field already covered by the Constitution or the federal enactment”;

-“The Constitution is supreme not only when another law is in consistent with it but also when (that other) law seeks to complete with it in an area already covered by the Constitution”.

The Supremacy of the Constitution

The supremacy of the Constitution has severally been emphasized by the appellate courts. For instance in UDEOGU V FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA & ORS. (SC. 264/2012) [2016] NGSC 29 (17 March 2016), the court struck down a conflicting section of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. Similarly in INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE V. ALL NIGERIA PEOPLES PARTY AND ORS (2007) AHRLR 179 (NGCA 2007), the court held that the provisions of the Public Order Act requiring a police permit for rallies is unconstitutional and void. Again in ATTORNEY-GENERAL OF LAGOS STATE VS THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION (2003) 35 E-WRN / 01 (SC), the court declared the Federal Government's withholding of federal allocations to Lagos State unconstitutional.

Conclusion

The NBA/GCB's Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme as laudable and salutary as it is suffers from the inherent legislative deficiency and incapacity of the GCB to enact same. Having regard to the combined enabling statutory provisions, it is submitted that only the National Assembly has the sole capacity to legislate on those items. We must look inwards and tell ourselves this home truth, lest we be admonished with the popular cliche, “physician heal thyself” when another aggrieved legal practitioner challenges its validity.

Section 12(4) of the Legal Practitioners Act simply empowers the General Council of the Bar to “make rules on professional conduct in the legal profession”. No more. Can this be extended to include the powers to prescribe a course of study, the successful completion of which is a prerequisite for a lawyer's competence or qualification to continue to practise? Conduct is defined by the definition preferred by the Oxford Dictionary is simply “the manner in which a person behaves, especially in a particular place of situation”. This is precisely what the General Council of the Bar was empowered to do- prescribe rules of professional conduct of behavior in the Legal profession; not to prescribe a compulsory course of study. The latter is clearly ultra vires its powers.

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