Ministry of Justice

Overview

The Ministry is made up of the following departments

Department of Public Prosecutions
Department of Civil Litigation
Department of Legal Drafting and Corporate Law
Department of Administrator-General and Public Trustee
Department of Citizens’ Rights
Department of Law Review
Department of Finance and Administration

OBJECTIVES

Target set by the Ministry for 2011-2012:

To ensure that rendering of Legal Advice is completed within two weeks of receipt of case file from the Police.
Take-off of the case management system which would fast track the movement of files right from the receipt of file from the Police to the conclusion of case.

Contact Details

Ministry of Justice, New Secretariat, Phase III, Ado-Ekiti
Lawrence Babatope Ojo,
Acting Solicitor-General & Permanent Secretary
08033549345
Topeojo25@yahoo.com

Vision and Mission and Functions

Vision:

The vision of the Ministry of Justice is to provide a system of justice that is simpler, cheaper, more efficient and more responsive to people’s needs with a view to actualizing same with greater efficiency and effectiveness. Moving from the rigid law and order paradion at the same time maintaining a focused, better result oriented clients services through committed Legal Officers who are core professionals rather than mere Civil Servants

Our Mission

Rapid and systematic transformation of the administration of Justice in Ekiti State and improved management of the State Legal Affairs

Functions

The Ministry performs the following specific responsibilities:

Advising Government Ministries Department and statutory corporations as well as State Owned Companies on legal issues.
Clearing of State Executive Council memoranda on filling of vacancies on chieftaincies and other important policy matters to ensure that they are in conformity with the relevant declaration and the law.
Advising the law enforcement agencies on desirability or otherwise of prosecution of simple cases in the Magistrate and other inferior courts and prosecuting the more complex cases in the superior courts.
Preparing information, profs of evidence and other relevant document for filing in the courts
Representing the government and all its agencies in civil matters before any court.
Drafting of Executive Bills, Local Government Adoptive-Byelaws, Orders, Instruments and Legal Notices
Drafting or vetting of agreements or Memoranda of understanding in respect of contract being entered into between the government and its agencies on the one part and outside bodies on the other
Administering the estates of persons dying intestate as may be referred to the Ministry as well as those who died testate and direct their wills that their estates should be administered by the Administrator-General and Public Trustee
Revision and reform of the existing laws of the State.
Recommendation to the Governor on the exercise of the constitutional power to pardon convicts in deserving cases or remit their sentences in part or in whole.
Liaising between the Executive and the Judicial in matters affecting the administration of Justice.
Representing the Federal Government in such criminal and civil actions for or against the Government and its agencies as may be specifically delegated to it by the Attorney-General of the Federation.

Principal Officers

Name	Designation
Dayo Apata, SAN	Honourable Attorney-General /Commissioner for Justice
	Acting Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary
	Director, Law Review
	Director, Administrator-General and Public Trustee
	Director, Legal Drafting
	Director, Public Prosecution
	Director, Civil Litigation
	Director, Citizens’ Rights
	Director, Finance and Administration

Past Heads

Name	Designation	Period
Makanjola Esan (SAN)	Hon. Commissioner	1st oct., 1996
Mr. Adewale Kowe	Hon. Commissioner	Nov. 1997
Obafemi Adwale	Hon. Commissioner	June1999 – Oct 23,2002
Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi	Hon. Commissioner	Oct 2002 – Jan 2003
Chief Duro Aja		Jun 2003
Owoseni Ajayi Esq
Hon Oyewole gboyega		2007 – 2010
Modupe Fasanmi	SG/PS	18th October, 1996
Mr. C.I. Akintayo Esq.		18th October, 1998
Mr. A.L. Ogunmoye		1st November, 2002
Barr. Dayo Akinlaja Esq	Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice
Hon. Wale Fapohunda	Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice	2018 – 2022

Activities

MINISTRY OF JUSTICE, EKITI STATE

REPORT OF ACTIVITIES

October, 2022 – October, 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Highlights: Achievements
Litigation and Non-Litigation Profile
Foreword by the Hon. Attorney-General
Statement by the Solicitor-General & Permanent Secretary
Part A: About the Ministry of Justice
Organizational Structure
Part B: Departmental Profile
Part C: Affiliated Agencies

QUOTES FROM HIS EXCELLENCY,

BIODUN ABAYOMI OYEBANJI’S

OCTOBER 1, 2023 BROADCAST

“My word to you today, is that, the Ekiti Dream of our founding fathers remains our creedal confession and the sole mission unto which we are committed. We will not allow their dream for an egalitarian and inclusive society where fairness, probity, justice, equal opportunity and prosperity for all is guaranteed, to fail”

H.E. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji

Governor of Ekiti State

HIGHLIGHTS: ACHIEVEMENTS

LAW REFORM

The Ministry of Justice drafted several novel Laws including:

The Ekiti State Wealth Fund Law 2023
Ekiti State Rural Access Road Agency Law, 2023
Yoruba Language Preservation and Promotion Law, 2023
Ekiti State Roads Fund Law, 2023
Ekiti State Lotteries and Gaming Law, 2023

OTHERS

Publication of Ministry of Justice Annual Report
Bi-monthly Management Meeting
Adoption and Implementation of Ekiti Transformation TIDBIT
Appointment and disposition of Legal Advisers to Ministries/ Departments/ Agencies and the State House Counsel
Production of the 1^st set Ekiti State MOJ Diaries with legal authorities
Constitution of Council on Prerogative of Mercy
Resuscitation of Appointment of Justices of the Peace (JP)
Two weeks deadline for issuance of Director of Public Prosecution’s Advice
48 hours timeline for Attorney-General’s comment on DPP’s Legal Advice

COLLABORATION

Collaboration with Ekiti State House of Assembly – Ongoing Review of Ekiti laws, briefing the House Committee on Justice Sector and Legal Matters on the activities and budget of the Ministry of Justice.
Collaboration with Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development – Visit and Assessment of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC), Transit Home and Juvenile Centre.
Collaboration with the Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD) – Appointment of Ministry Champion
Collaboration with Habibat Dangana Foundation – Collation of seminars on GBV data
Collaboration with the Police and other Security Agencies on issues relating to persecution of criminal matters.
Collaboration with the Judiciary – Collation and report of activities of the small claims’ court for the assessment of Ekiti State on her performance as regards ease of doing business in the State.
Collaboration with the Ekiti State Executive Council – Drafting of Contract Agreements and Executive Bills.
Collaboration with the Traditional Council – Sensitization of Obas on GBV and training of Palace Court Secretaries.

	LITIGATION PROFILE	JUDGMENT
a	Supreme Court 22 Civil Cases	1 Judgment in criminal case
b	Court of Appeal 12 Civil Cases, 3	39 Judgment in Criminal Cases
c	Federal High Court 6 Civil Cases
d	National Industrial Court 5 Civil Cases
e	High Court 93 Civil and 173 Criminal Cases instituted	51 Judgment in Criminal Cases
f	Arbitration 3 Civil Cases

NON LITIGATION MATTERS

Issuance of 183 Legal Advices by the DPP
946 cases mediated by the Directorate of Citizens Rights
N5,070,000 (Five Million and Seventy Thousand Naira Only) recovered on behalf of complainants by the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights
Gazetting of 114 Chieftaincy Declarations
14 Legal Advices issued by the Department of Legal Drafting
63 Contract Agreements drafted by the Department of Legal Drafting
17 Executive Bills drafted by the Department of Legal Drafting
Receipt of a total sum of One Hundred and Thirty One Million, Five Hundred and Thirty Two Thousand, Six Hundred and Ninety Nine Naira, Twenty Nine Kobo (N131,532,699.29) from Pension Commission for disbursement to the beneficiaries of the deceased.
47 Letters of Administration were processed from January, 2023 till date by the Office of the Administrator General and Public Trustee while 24 are still under processing at the Probate Registry of the High Court

FOREWORD BY THE HON. ATTORNEY-GENERAL

On assumption of office on 20th October, 2022 as Ekiti State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, I made a pledge to offer credible leadership and service in my position as the Chief Law Officer of the State. I set out on my Mission to make Ekiti State Ministry of Justice a reference point in the administration of Justice in Nigeria by undertaking some programmes and Policies. Notable of these programmes and policies are:

Improved Access to Justice: In my quest for improved access to justice in Ekiti State, my office initiated the Administration of Palace Court Bill of 2023 which is designed to better structure and empower our Palace Courts in the dispensation of justice. The bill, when passed into law, will allow appeals to go from the palace courts to the State Customary Court of Appeal. This initiative is borne out of the understanding that the palace court is sometimes the closest to our people, especially at the grassroots.
Review of the Laws of Ekiti State: I have approved the setting up of a Committee to review the current Laws of the State and come up with a new set of Laws for better Administration of Justice in the State. The current set of Laws which is First Edition was published in year 2012. A Committee is now working on Second Edition to be published soonest.
Support for the Judiciary and other Stakeholders in the Justice Sector: Our unwavering support for the Judiciary has been further strengthened through good cooperation and collaborative programmes and policies. Notable of our support for the Judiciary is my recent request for increase in the Statutory number of Ekiti State High Court Judges from 16 to 25. I have also shown support for other Justice Sector Stakeholders, especially the law enforcement agencies, through regular interface and exchange of ideas.
Formulation of Policies for Improved Legal Services: Since I assumed office, I have engaged in regular briefings with the Management of Ministry of Justice to measure and review the outputs of the Ministry to its constituents. This has resulted in the improved processes and a better workforce for the Ministry.
Better working environment and improved welfare package for the staff of the Ministry of Justice: on assumption of duty I saw the need to take radical steps in fixing in Ministry of Justice Complex particularly some of the offices which are not conducive for our staff. So far, we have been able to improve the working conditions of the staff. We have equally improved our welfare package for the sake of staff in critical need of assistance and for the entire staff during notable festivities.

I am delighted to give feedback on the achievements of the Ministry of Justice in the last 12 months as it is well detailed in the Report of Activities. I will like to appreciate the executive Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for his commitment to the improvement of the Justice Sector as encapsulated under the pillar of governance, which is one of the six pillars of the current administration.

Let me also extend my appreciation to the entire members of staff of the Ministry of Justice, Ekiti State for their steadfastness and dedication to work. Finally, I want to reaffirm my commitment to credible leadership and service in my aspiration to making Ekiti State Ministry of Justice a reference point in the administration of Justice in Nigeria.

Thank you.

__________________________

Dayo Apata, SAN, FCRArb

Honourable Attorney-General & Commissioner for Justice

Ekiti State

October, 2023

STATEMENT BY THE SOLICITOR-GENERAL AND PERMANENT SECRETARY

It has been a great honour administering the office of the Solicitor General since I took over from my predecessor in February, 2023. In the course of the year under review, the Ministry of Justice pursued its regular activities of protecting and defending the interest of the State before the Courts. We also proposed new Laws, issued legal instruments and advice to the various MDAs, we provided free legal advices to the indigent through our legal aid departments and platforms and also prepared various agreements on behalf of the State.

In line with the aspirations of the Honourable Attorney-General & Commissioner for Justice to prioritize the welfare of our staff, we looked into the challenges of the staff of the Ministry and provided solutions especially on the issue of office space, office equipment and regular payment of claims. I am pleased to report that some of our staff who have been on temporary employment for years were given full employment by the State Government this year.

In the year under review, the leadership of the Ministry became more assessable to the staff and received regular briefings for better output. We are grateful to His Excellency, Mr. Governor for his magnanimity in approving the request of the Ministry. I am also happy to report that we recently got the approval of the Governor for the training of the Staff of the Ministry.

We are grateful for the achievements so far and I want to say we are poised for more people-oriented activities and programmes in the coming year 2024 to serve the good people of Ekiti better. We hope to better synergize with relevant Stakeholders in the Justice Sector, propose stronger laws to the people, organize trainings for our staff and give more attention to issues affecting women and children in Ekiti State.

God bless Ekiti State.

S.B.J. Bamise, Esq.

Solicitor-General & Permanent Secretary

October, 2023

PART A: ABOUT THE MINISTRY OF JUSTICE

The mission of the Ministry of Justice which includes its mandate is to provide accurate and effective legal services to the State towards ensuring perfect administration of justice.

The Ministry shall pursue this goal to accelerate and bring into fruition the 6 pillar-agenda of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s administration towards good governance.

MISSION STATEMENT
Provide appropriate legal framework for accurate and efficient access to justice.
Collaborate with other organs of Government through the instrumentality of the law for purposeful and result-oriented governance.
Institute legal advisories to ensure every policy and programme of Government are connected to the chains of Ekiti Developemtn Plan 2021-2050.
Promote the rule of law towards ensuring equity and inclusive society where every indigene of Ekiti State enjoys equal opportunity.
Promote, protect and defend the rights of citizens.
Strengthen and support the justice sector through the formulation and adoption of transformative policies at the Local, State and Federal levels.
Uphold the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria at all times.
Operate in accordance with highest standards in all transactions with the State and general public.
Create an environment that encourages innovation and diligence amongst staff and rewards accordingly.
Facilitate increased mass literacy on access to justice.
Promote public confidence in the State and Justice System through prompt service delivery and proper education of the masses on the legal system

OUR VALUES

Courage
Equity and Fairness
Impartiality
Diligence
Honesty

OUR VISION

The Ministry of Justice is poised to strengthening the mechanism of administration of Justice in a way to enhancing effective justice delivery in the State.

NAME OF DIRECTORS	E-MAIL ADDRESS	PHONE NUMBER
GBEMIGA ADARAMOLA, ESQ. Department of Civil Litigation	gbemigaadaramola@gmail.com	08032405409
FOLORUNSO AJAYI, ESQ. Administrator General & Public Trustee	ajayi4lorunso02@gmail.com	08038592848
SEGUN OGUNREMI AKINWUMI, ESQ Department of Chieftaincy Affairs	segunakinwumi1@gmail.com	08038479674
JULIUS AJIBARE, ESQ. Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP)	Juliusajibare222@gmail.com	08032514175
ILESANMI J. ADELUSI, ESQ. Department of Advisory Services	adelusiilesanmi@yahoo.com	08039138293
HERBERT ALABA ADEYEMI, ESQ. Directorate of Citizens’ Right	herbertadeyemi@gmail.com	09067513812
CLEMENT ILESANMI AYOOLA, ESQ. Department of Legal Drafting (DLD)	ayoola.clement@yahoo.com	07034551247
ADEBAYO TITILAYO LYDIA, ESQ. Department of Law Review	titadexlydia@gmail.com	08033977870
YETUNDE RACHAEL ESQ. Department of Commercial & Corporate Law	tolakolawole5@gmail.com	08063802720
OLUSEGUN KOWE , ESQ (Acting Director) Department of Research & Publications	Koweolusegun316@gmail.com	08104353236
OLUFUNSO LOLA SOLA-SALAMI Department of Finance and Accounts	lollymides@gmail.com	08037937946
ADEKUNLE EMMANUEL ADELEYE Department of Administration and Supplies	adekunleadeleye21@gmail.com	08062257174

LIST OF MEMBERS OF STAFF

LEGAL STAFF

Dayo Apata SAN, FCIArb. – Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice
SUNDAY BAMIDELE J. BAMISE, ESQ. – Solicitor General & Permanent Secretary
GBEMIGA ADARAMOLA, ESQ – Director, Department of Civil Litigation
FOLORUNSO AJAYI, ESQ. – Administrator General & Public Trustee
SEGUN OGUNREMI AKINWUMI, ESQ – Director, Department of Chieftaincy Affairs
JULIUS AJIBARE, ESQ. – Director, Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP)
ILESANMI J. ADELUSI, ESQ. – Director, Department of Advisory Services and Local Government Liaison Services
HERBERT ALABA ADEYEMI, ESQ. – Director, Directorate of Citizens’ Right
CLEMENT ILESANMI AYOOLA, ESQ. – Director, Department of Legal Drafting (DLD)
ADEBAYO TITILAYO LYDIA, ESQ. – Director, Department of Law Review
YETUNDE RACHAEL KOLAWOLE, ESQ – Department of Commercial &

Corporate Law

OLUSEGUN KOWE, ESQ – Director, Department of Research & Publications
Akinola A. Felix – Deputy Director
Odunayo Y.O – Deputy Director
Olowoyo James – Deputy Director
Fasote Oluwaseun – Deputy Director
Arogundade Adedayo Eniola – Deputy Director
Onipede Akinola O. – Deputy Director
Awoniyi Felix Oyewole – Deputy Director
Olatubosun O.T. – Deputy Director
Sanya-Atofarati O. – Deputy Director
Akinlabi Olaniyi Olakunle – Deputy Director
Akintayo Oluyemi Helen
OduduTosanbami
Ajumobi O.
Jayeoba Ayodeji J.
Fabusuyi Oluwatayo
Aladejare Abigail Aduralere
Odetola Ibironke Bridget
Omolayo Oyeyemi
Atane Shirley Edabo
Olowoyo-Richards Ayobami
Adeyemo Kunle Sina
Suleman Haruna Olalekan
Adeola Iyabo Olamojiba
Olasanmi Oluwaseun Christianah
Ajibulu-Ariyo Taiwo
Oladosu Temitope Anthony
Fakunle Adesola Helen
Aina Oluwagbenga Olawale
Aiyeleso Olapeju Blessing
Bayo-Fati Adekunle Olanipekun
Olaifa Oluwatoba Toyin
Owolabi Tobiloba Peace
Alabi Toluwani Oluwagbenga
Alonge Deborah Mercy
Adeola-Johnson Oluwatosin Evelyn
Bello Funmi Tolulope
Awotile Samuel Tolulope

NON-LEGAL STAFF

Kunle Adeleye – Director, Department of Administration and Supplies
Olufunso Lolo Sola-Salami – Director, Finance and Accounts
Oluwafemi F. I
Ajayi Adedayo Victor
Adeniyi Oluwatoyin A.
Owolabi Felicia Anike
Olatunji Titilayo A.
Olusegun Folasade Helen
Olajide Esther O.
Rita E. Kolade
Badmus Maryam I.
Ilori Salimot Bosede
Jegede Funmilola Fayoke
Olokan Oluwatoyin
Ale Yemisi Lydia
AkinwoleTolulope Solomon
Kehinde Funke F.
Ajala Helen Folasade
Akinsola Roseline O.
Olarewaju Rachael I.
Olubunmi Iyabo
Ogundana Sunday Samuel
Adedayo Adeniyi
Adelola Florence
Adeusi Funke Hellen
Ogundipe Adeniyi Ojo
Alabi Benson Damilola
Omole Bukola
Maliki Sunday Muyiwa
Adebayo Oluwafemi
Ape Adesoye Olubunmi
Bankole Samuel Seun
Agboola Benson O.
Owoeye Oluwakemi Foluso
Abiara Funke
Oladele Johnson O.
Omotayo Taiwo Bola
Adakeja Oluwabukola Toyin
Henry Famehin
Adepetu Funmilayo
Asaolu Oladapo
Alabi F. Susan
Ogunode Ruth Adepate
Aina Adebayo O.
Aina Elizabeth Adedoja
Akinluyi Olufunke Abimbola
Bamigboye Bosede Foluso
Oni Akinyinka
AdedayoTolulope Oluwakemi
Adanikin Bimbola Ope
Adeagbo Reuben
Awoyomi Remi Temitan
Jato Sunday
Alofun Thomas
Adegoke Opeyemi Paul
Ayeni Idowu
Ale Michael
Ogodi Adetunji
Agbemuko Abiodun
Oloyede Omowunmi
Ajijola T.O
Agbubi Comfort
Agboola Bukola
Olugbenga Adefemi
Oyedele Kehinde
Olatiyise Grace

DEPARTMENTAL PROFILE/REPORT

The Departmental Profile is a summary of the key mandates and activities of all the various Departments/Agencies of the Ministry of Justice.

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC PROSECUTION

Detailed Description of the Department

The Department of Public Prosecutions is one of the Departments in the Ekiti State Ministry of Justice and the machinery through which the Attorney General of the State exercises the prosecutorial and allied powers, vested in him by Section 211 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

FUNCTIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT

The Department performs the following functions as a key role-player in the Administration of Criminal Justice and effective execution of Government’s policy on crime:

Rendering of legal advisory services to the Police, the State Security Services Department, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, etc. on Criminal Investigations and Prosecutions.
Rendering of legal advice to Government Ministries, Agencies and Departments on crime-related issues and concerns.
Monitoring and supervision of Prosecutions by the Police and other prosecuting Agencies in the Magistrate Courts.
Preparation of Criminal cases in the Magistrate Courts and High Courts.
Prosecution of Criminal Appeals in the High Courts, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court.
Collation and utilization of crime-related data for the effective implementation and execution of Governor’s policy on crime.
GENERAL ACTIVITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT

The Department of Public Prosecutions is saddled with the responsibility of initiating, undertaking and defending Criminal proceedings in the name of the Attorney General and on behalf of the State of Ekiti at the Magistrate Court, High Court, Federal High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court.
The Department in the exercise of the powers vested in the Attorney-General takes over and continues any such criminal proceedings that any other authority or person may have been instituted. The Department has taken over and continued plethora of criminal matters which are currently being attended to.
The Department through the powers conferred on the Attorney General by the Constitution discontinues criminal prosecutions in deserving matters but such powers of discontinuance is not automatic as it must necessarily be exercised regard being heard to public interest, the interest of justice and the need to prevent abuse of legal process.
The Hon. Attorney General through the Department as a result of zero tolerance policy of the administration to sexual violence put in place proactive measures to halt and curb Sexual and Gender-based violence in the State, viz:
Pasting the photographs of convicted sex offenders in prominent public spaces in their communities and their Local Government Headquarters;
Issuing an advisory to the traditional ruler of the sex offender’s community on the status of the offender;

iii. Uploading the sex offenders’ photographs on the website of the Ministry of Justice;

Showing photographs of sex offenders on Ekiti State Broadcasting Service and announcing their names on Radio Stations in the State;
Compulsory psychiatric tests for all Persons of whom the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has issued ‘a case to answer’ Legal Advice for the offence of child defilement. This also includes Persons currently standing trial for the offence of child defilement.
The Ministry through the Department embarked on public education and awareness including consultations with key persons and institutions in the State. In this regard, the Hon. Attorney General and the Management Team has met with the Council of Traditional Rulers and the 16 Local Government Councils in the state.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE DEPARTMENT DURING THE PERIOD UNDER REVIEW
The DPP issued and filed a “case to answer” Legal Advice in One Hundred and Seventy-Three (173) cases.
A “No case to answer” in Ten (10) cases was also issued and filed.

The DPP filed One Hundred and Seventy-Three (173) Information and Proof of Evidence at the High Court thus setting Criminal Prosecution in motion and got Fifty-One (51) judgments in various criminal trials at the High Court within the period. The judgments obtained are as follows:

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- JIMOH DELE

CHARGE NO: HAD/40C/2022

NATURE: Burglary & Stealing

SENTENCE: Convicted (21 Years Imprisonment)

DATE OF DELIVERY:17^th October, 2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – ILESANMI-ADEWALE

CHARGE NO: HAD/81C/2021

NATURE: Rape

SENTENCE: Life imprisonment

DATE OF DELIVERY: 19^th October, 2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – KAZEEM OLAFISOYE & OWOLABI USMAN

CHARGE NO: HAD/53C/2020

NATURE: Conspiracy & Armed Robbery

SENTENCE: Death

DATE OF DELIVERY: 17^th October, 2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – DAUDU JIMOH

CHARGE NO: HAD/78C/2020

NATURE: Rape

VICTIM AGE: 9-years-old

DEFENDANT AGE: 65 Years

SENTENCE: Life imprisonment

DATE OF DELIVERY: 20^th October, 2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – SURULERE OLAKUNLE

CHARGE NO: HAD/14C/2019

NATURE: Membership of Secret Cult

JUDGEMENT: Acquitted and Discharged

DATE OF DELIVERY: 20^th October, 2022

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- JEMINIWA SHADRACH

CHARGE NO: HAD/17C/2019

NATURE: Attempted Armed Robbery

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 26/10/2022

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- OWOLABI DEJI &

OPEYEMI OLUWAKOMOLAFE

CHARGE NO: HAD/02C/2017

NATURE: Conspiracy, Armed Robbery &Rape

SENTENCE: Death and Life Imprisonment

DATE OF DELIVERY: 09/11/2022

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- SEGUN IWAETAN

CHARGE NO: HAD/82C/2020

NATURE: Conspiracy, Burglary, Stealing &Rape

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 29/11/2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS- SEGUN IWAETAN

CHARGE NO: HAD/82C/2020

NATURE: Rape, Membership of Secret Cult and Unlawful Possession of Firearms

SENTENCE: Twelve (12) Years for Rape, Death for Membership of Secret Cult and Twelve (12) years Unlawful possession of Firearm

DATE OF JUDGEMENT: 29/11/2022

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- SUNDAY OLAYOKUN

CHARGE NO: HAD/79C/2021

NATURE: Cultism

SENTENCE: Acquitted & Discharge

DATE OF DELIVERY: 29/11/2022

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- OLUFEMI ADEWUMI

CHARGE NO: HAD/35C/2020

NATURE: Rape

SENTENCE: Acquitted & Discharge

DATE OF DELIVERY: 30/11/2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – OJO PETER

CHARGE NO: HAD/07C/2021

NATURE: Manslaughter

JUDGEMENT: Acquitted and Discharged

DATE OF DELIVERY: 30/11/2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – DADA OLAMIPOSI &OLADEJO SODIQ CHARGE NO: HAD/117C/2020

NATURE: Conspiracy & Rape

VICTIM AGE: 17-years-old

The Defendants who are minors gang Rape the victim

SENTENCE: 10 years imprisonment for Rape & 5 years for Conspiracy

(Kept at the measure of the Governor)

DATE OF JUDGEMENT: 2/12/2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – CHUKWUDI VICTOR & IFEDAYO TEMIDAYO

CHARGE NO: HCR/1C/2019

NATURE: Conspiracy, Stealing and Burglary

SENTENCE: Ifedayo Temidayo Acquitted and Discharged while Chukwudi Victor sentenced to 5 years imprisonment

DATE OF DELIVERY: 5^th December, 2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – JUWON ADELEYE & ADETILOYE OLAMILEKAN

CHARGE NO: HAD/10C/2019

NATURE: Conspiracy, Armed Robbery & Attempt to Murder

SENTENCE: Death for Armed Robbery, 5 years for Conspiracy and 10 years for Attempt to Murder

DATE OF DELIVERY: 6^th December, 2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS- OLADIMEJI AYODELE

CHARGE NO: HAD/43C/2021 –

NATURE: Rape

VICTIM AGE: 14 Years

DEFENDANT AGE: 38Years

SENTENCE: Life Imprisonment

DATE OF DELIVERY: 13^th December, 2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – KOLE AJAGUNLA

CHARGE NO: HAD/26C/2022

NATURE: Rape

VICTIM AGE: 14-years-old

SENTENCE: Life Imprisonment

DATE OF DELIVERY: 6^th December, 2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS- AJAYI OJO DADA &THREEE (3) ORS

CHARGE NO: HAD/82C/2020

NATURE: Conspiracy, Armed Robbery and Attempt to Murder

SENTENCE: Death for Armed Robbery & Conspiracy and 7 years for Attempt to Murder

DATE OF DELIVERY: 8^th December, 2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – OJURONGBE ABIODUN

CHARGE NO: HAD/91C/2020

NATURE: House Breaking and Stealing

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 12^th December, 2022

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS – AJAKAIYE TOYIN

CHARGE NO: HCR/1C/2019

NATURE: Murder

SENTENCE: Death

DATE OF DELIVERY: 19^th December, 2022

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- FAKOREDE OLAWALE &

TUNJI OLAITAN

CHARGE NO: HAD/46C/2016

NATURE: ARMED ROBBERY, ATTEMPT TO MURDER & ATTEMPTED RAPE

SENTENCE: Death and Life Imprisonment

DATE OF DELIVERY: 26/12/2022

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- TOLUWANIMI OJUAWO & 4ORS

CHARGE NO: HAD/72C/2021

NATURE: Conspiracy & Kidnapping

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 26/1/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- ABU TOBI & 5ORS

CHARGE NO: HAD/36C/2022

NATURE: Conspiracy & Kidnapping

SENTENCE: Acquitted and Discharged

DATE OF DELIVERY: 26/1/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- ADELEYE OLUSOLA &

FRIDAY TUNDE

CHARGE NO: HAD/61C/2018

NATURE: Armed Robbery

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY:26/01/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- AKEEM SALAWU & 1ORS

CHARGE NO: HAD/64^C/2019

NATURE: Rape

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 1/2/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- EMMANUEL DANIEL

CHARGE NO: HAD/56C/2021

NATURE: Conspiracy and Armed Robbery

SENTENCE: Death

DATE OF DELIVERY:02/02/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- AYINDE OLUKAYODE SAMUEL

CHARGE NO: HAD/41C/2021

NATURE: Rape

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 16/2/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- OBAFEMI OKE & ANOR

CHARGE NO: HAD/25C/2020

NATURE: Armed Robbery and Attempt to Murder

SENTENCE: Death

DATE OF DELIVERY: January, 2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- IMOLE ASAKE & 1OR

CHARGE NO: HAD/04^C/2022

NATURE: Attempt to Murder

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 16/2/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- MOJEED YUNISA

CHARGE NO: HAD/18C/2022

NATURE: Rape

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 3/3/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- MOHAMMED ABUBAKAR

ARDO-DUNI & ORS

CHARGE NO: HAD/51C/2020

NATURE: Conspiracy & Kidnapping

DATE OF DELIVERY: 7/3/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- OLUWAFEMI SUNDAY OLAIYA

CHARGE NO: HAD/74C/2022

NATURE: Murder

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 16/3/2023

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS- AINA SAMUEL

CHARGE NO: HAD/130C/2020

NATURE: Rape

SENTENCE: Life Imprisonment

DATE OF DELIVERY: 30/3/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- JIMOH DELE (A.K.A PETIM)

CHARGE NO: HAD/105C/2022

NATURE: Burglary & Stealing

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 31/03/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- ISMAILA MOHAMMED OJO

CHARGE NO: HAD/24C/2019

NATURE: Murder

Sentence: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 31/03/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- ABEREOJE IDOWU

CHARGE NO: HAD/60C/2022

NATURE: Conspiracy & Murder

SENTENCE: Acquitted & Discharged

DATE OF DELIVERY: 18/4/2023

CASE NAME: STATE OF EKITI – VS- SEGUN AKINYEMI

CHARGE NO: HAD/28C/2020

NATURE: Armed Robbery

SENTENCE: Life Imprisonment

DATE OF DELIVERY: 26/4/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- OMOTAYO DEJI & 2ORS

CHARGE NO: HAD/O1C/2020

NATURE: Conspiracy & Armed Robbery

SENTENCE: Death

DATE OF DELIVERY: 11/5/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- ADEYEMI OLAWALE

CHARGE NO: HAD/10C/2022

NATURE: Rape

SENTENCE: convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 17^thMay, 2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- ADERIN JOSEPH ADEDEJI

CHARGE NO: HAD/35C/2022

NATURE: Armed Robbery

SENTENCE: Acquitted & Discharged

DATE OF DELIVERY: 13/6/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- ALEX PETER& 2 ORS

CHARGE NO: HAD/140C/2020

NATURE: Murder

SENTENCE: Acquitted &Discharged

DATE OF DELIVERY: 14/6/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- DAHIRU ADAMU & 2ORS

CHARGE NO: HAD/107C/2022

NATURE: Conspiracy & Kidnapping

SENTENCE: Acquitted & Discharged

DATE OF DELIVERY: 23/6/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- JIMOH DELE

CHARGE NO: HAD/56C/2022

NATURE: Burglary & Stealing

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 30/6/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- AJIMOKO TOYOSI

CHARGE NO: HAD/51C/2022

NATURE: Burglary and Stealing

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY:30/6/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- PASTOR PETER SAMSON AJAYI

CHARGE NO: HAD/61C/2021

NATURE: Rape

SENTENCE: Acquitted & Discharge

DATE OF DELIVERY:19/9/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- AJIBADE WASIU

CHARGE NO: HAD/09C/2021

NATURE: Rape

SENTENCE: Life Imprisonment

DATE OF DELIVERY:

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- AJAYI CHRISTOPHER OGBADOYI

CHARGE NO: HAD/44C/2022

NATURE: Rape

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 24/03/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- JEGEDE JANET

CHARGE NO: HAD/127C/2020

NATURE: Murder

SENTENCE: Death

DATE OF DELIVERY: 18/05/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- LEYE OJO & 4 ORS

CHARGE NO: HAD/20C/2017

NATURE: Conspiracy & Armed Robbery

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 20/06/2023

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- SUNDAY OLUWAFEMI

CHARGE NO: HAD/64^C/2019

NATURE: Stealing & Burglary

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY:

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- ADEJAYAN ADEBAYO & ANOR

CHARGE NO: HAD/40^C/2020

NATURE: Possession of Ammunition and Cultism

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 8/12/2022

CASE NAME: THE STATE OF EKITI –V- OGUNDIPE RONKE & 4 OTHERS

CHARGE NO: HAD/40^C/2020

NATURE: Attempt to Murder, Stealing, Conspiracy & Assault Occasioning Harm

SENTENCE: Convicted

DATE OF DELIVERY: 30/06/2023

The Department filed Thirty-Five(35) Respondent Briefs of Argument in the Court of Appeal and got Thirty-Nine (39) judgments from the same Court. They are:

CASE NAME: KEHINDE OLAJIDE VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/73C/2021

JUDGEMENT: Appeal dismissed.

DATE OF DELIVERY: 16^th November, 2022

CASE NAME: AROGUNDADE OLUMIDE VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/02C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal dismissed.

DATE OF DELIVERY: 16^th November, 2022

CASE NAME: ADEWALE ADESANMI VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/01C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 1^st December, 2022

CASE NAME: FAROTIMI SAMUEL VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/32C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal dismissed.

DATE OF DELIVERY: 12^th December, 2022

CASE NAME: MUHAMMODU ABUBAKAR VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/107C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal dismissed.

DATE OF DELIVERY: 6^th December, 2022.

CASE NAME: FAMILOLA AYODEJI VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/40C/2021

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 6^th December, 2022

CASE NAME: KAYODE AJIMOKO VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/64C/2020

JUDGEMENT: Appeal dismissed.

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: ESTHER SWEM ABUNDU VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/35C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal dismissed.

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: CHINEDU UGWU VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/38C/2021

JUDGEMENT:

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: AJAYI PETER VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/59C/2021

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed.

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: OWOEYE OJO VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/93C/2021

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed.

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: OLASOJI DAMILOLA VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/25C/2021

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed.

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: KOIKI TUNDE BENSON VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/26C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Allowed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: KOLAWOLE TOPE VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/29C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: OLUWOLE EDWARD VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/30C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF Delivery: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: KOLAWOLE OJO VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/32C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF Delivery: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: OGBESETUYI TUNDE VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/33C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: MARTINS IFEBUCHI VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/50C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF Delivery: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: JOHN JOSEPH VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/52C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: DURODOLA K. OGUNDELE VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/62C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: KOLAWOLE MARVELOUS VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/69C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 22/02/2023

CASE NAME: MOHAMMED ISIAKA VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/31C/2021

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF Delivery: 01/03/2023

CASE NAME: AROGUNDADE WASIU VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/56C/2021

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 01/03/2023

CASE NAME: SOLA JEGEDE VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/76C/2021

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 01/03/2023

CASE NAME: KOLAWOLE JULIUS VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/85C/2021

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 01/03/2023

CASE NAME: ABDULSALAM ADINOYI VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/67C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 1/03/2023

CASE NAME: LATEEF AFEERE OLUWASEUN VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/10C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 17/04/2023

CASE NAME: WALIU ABIFARIN VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/108C/2021

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 18/05/2023

CASE NAME: ADEDARA ALADESUGBA VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/11C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 20/07/2023

CASE NAME: ABDULLATEEF BABATUNDE VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/37C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 20/07/2023

CASE NAME: TOPE SOLA OJOLO VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/82C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Allowed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 20/03/2023

CASE NAME: MOHAMMED ABUBAKAR VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/87C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 20/03/2023

CASE NAME: USMAN IBRAHIM VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/106C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 20/03/2023

CASE NAME: DARAMOLA TOSIN VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/61C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 31/08/2023

CASE NAME: SADE OTENUGA VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/80C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 31/08/2023

CASE NAME: JAMIU OJEDIRAN VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/92C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 31/08/2023

CASE NAME: ADEWALE ILESANMI VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/105C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF JUDGMENT: 01/09/2023

CASE NAME: JONATHAN ELIJAH VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/91C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 15/09/2023

CASE NAME: KOIKI TUNDE BENSON VS THE STATE OF EKITI

APPEAL NO: CA/EK/26C/2022

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Dismissed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 15/09/2023

The Department filed Fourteen (14) Respondent Briefs of Argument in the Supreme Court and got One (1) judgment from the Apex Court. The judgment Obtained is:
NAME: FAGBILE EBENEZER AND THE STATE

SUPREME COURT NO: SC.526/2017

JUDGEMENT: Appeal Allowed

DATE OF DELIVERY: 2/12/2022

The Department continued with the implementation of Attorney –General’s Advisories on Gender Equality and Protections from Sexual and Gender – Based Violence during the period under review by complying with the directives and proactive measures put in place by the Honourable Attorney-General to halt and curb sexual offences and all forms of Gender Based Violence in Ekiti State.

The Department continuously paste photographs of convicted sex offenders in prominent public spaces in their communities.

Implementation of Plea Bargaining Guidelines setting out the procedures by which a prosecutor, with a view to agreeing to an alternative means of disposing of criminal cases in exchange for some concession which may take the form of an offer of a plea by the defendant to some or all the charges, in different offence or less serious charge or to one of multiple charges or agreement to testify against some or other defendants.

Amendment of Ekiti State Administration of Criminal Justice Law, 2014.

…………………………….

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT

JULIUS AJIBARE, ESQ.,

Director of Public Prosecutions

DEPUTY DIRECTOR: FELIX AWONIYI, ESQ.,

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL LITIGATION

The Department of Civil Litigation is responsible for instituting and defending civil actions involving the State Government, Government departments and interests. With a view of minimizing the State Government’s exposure, the department employs multi-prolonged approach defending civil claims. The department specifically undertakes the following:

Advocate the State’s interests in claims and litigation with a view to reducing potential liability.
Renders legal advice in civil disputes to the MDAs and government parastatals;
Creates joint teams of Law Officers with Specific subject matter expertise for efficient case management; and
Processing modalities for the payment of judgment debts by mediating and negotiating between the judgment creditors and the Government;
Manages Arbitration issues on matters against the State.

The Department, during the year under review defended the State Government in Supreme Court about Twenty-Two (22) and Twelve (12) cases at the Court of Appeal, Five (5) cases at the National Industrial Court, Six (6) cases at the Federal High Court, Nine-Three (93) cases at the High Court, and before Arbitration three (3) cases were firmed out.

In addition to litigation functions performed by the Department, it also issued several advisories on Chieftaincy matters, Termination of Appointments, Termination of Contracts, Land Dispute (which requires that the Ministry of Lands sends notices to the Ministry of Justice on any land which is intended to be revoked for clearance and approval before seeking Mr. Governor’s approval) and other related matters. There is an ongoing negotiation between some judgment creditors and the State Government.

In respect of those cases where there are judgment debts already, these judgment debts are supposed to be paid as the Ministry of Works and other MDAs have admitted that those debts were actually being owned by the State Government. This is to avoid unnecessary litigation and additional interest accruable on the principal debt owned if judgment is eventually given against the Government.

The department has continued negotiation between some judgment creditors and the Government as to rescheduling installment payment in respect of the judgment debts. The department was also able to save several millions of naira in judgment debt for the State. The department was able to achieve this through filing applications to courts for setting aside fraudulently obtained Garnishee Order Nisi attaching State Government funds. A total sum of over 3.8 Billion Naira was recovered for the State by the Department.

One notable function performed by the Department of Civil Litigation during the present administration was its intervention when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) wrote a letter to the Accountant General and the Commissioner for Finance of Ekiti State calling for investigation activities in respect of the Ekiti State Accounts and Financial Records sometimes in May, 2023. Fortified with the judgment earlier gotten by the Ekiti State Government from the Federal High Court, Ado Ekiti Judicial Division restraining the EFCC from inquiring into the Ekiti State Government finances, we swiftly commenced Contempt Proceedings against the Chairman, Ilorin and Ibadan Zonal Commanders of the EFCC for their disobedience to the Federal High Court Judgment. The case is still pending.

DEPARTMENT OF CHIEFTAINCY AFFAIRS

The Department of Chieftaincy Affairs renders legal advice on Chieftaincy matters and other related issues in the State. It also facilitate meetings with Traditional Rulers as may be necessary in matters of Chieftaincy disputes. The Department undertakes the review of Chieftaincy Declarations as may be necessary from time to time.

The Department also does the following:

Compilation of Chieftaincy Declarations and update on their status.
Liaise with the Bureau of Chieftaincy Affairs, Department of Law Review to gazette the subsisting Chieftaincy Declarations.
Keep a list of towns without a Traditional Ruler in the State and those who have gotten Mr. Governor’s approval to commence the selection and installation of a Traditional Ruler.
To have a data of Chieftaincy stools which have been stalled by court action.
Clearance of Executive Memo on the selection and appointment of a new traditional rulers.
Update and review of towns seeking autonomies and upgrade of the status.
Sustain the compilation and publication of the Palace Courts judgments with a follow-up on Palace Court Secretaries on their compliance to the Palace to the Palace Court Guidelines.

Within the year under review, the department continued with its mandate and issued several legal advices on Chieftaincy matters to the offices of the Attorney-General& Commissioner for Justice, and the Bureau of Chieftaincy Affairs through the office of the Solicitor-General & Permanent Secretary.
The department finally facilitated the gazette of 114 (One Hundred and Fourteen) Chieftaincy Declarations in Ekiti State thereby giving the Chieftaincy Declarations a force Law. This is in line with the aim of the Ekiti State Government to bring lasting solution to various chieftaincy tussles that have affected the peaceful co-existence of several towns in Ekiti State. The issue of ruling houses and the order of rotation among the ruling houses have now been fully resolved.

The gazette is now available for the general public at the Ministry of Justice Bookshop.

O.S AKINWUMI, ESQ. – Director

SANYA ATOFARATI, ESQ. – Deputy Director

DIRECTORATE OF CITIZENS’ RIGHTS

The Directorate for Citizens’ Rights ensures the protection of the fundamental human rights of citizens in the State especially the poor and the vulnerable. It also implements government Policy on human rights and access to justice by indigents. The Directorate ensures the adoption of Alternative Dispute in Civil matters including matrimonial matters, child custody, maintenance, and tenancy issues and so on.

The Department for Citizens’ Rights is the complaint-handling mechanism of the Ministry of Justice. The Directorate mostly adopts Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms to settle disputes amicably mostly through mediation. Also, the Directorate provides free legal services for residents of Ekiti State especially indigent persons.

The Directorate of Citizens’ Right received and treated a total number of 946 complaints within the period under review. Out of the 946 complaints, marital/domestic violence tops the list with 401 complaints, followed by tenancy matters. During the period, 231 tenancy matters were handled, while 96 complaints on land matters were handled by the department. A total of 105 small debt recovery complaints were resolved during the period. Complaints relating to assault were 18 while complaints relating to child abuse were also attended to.

Also, numerous complaints in regard to the issue of land grabbing were received by the Directorate and the Directorate could only intervene by referring such matters to the Commission of Police.

Concerning legal representation in court, the Directorate also represents parties in court especially in tenancy matter, divorce action, action for maintenance of child. With respect to small claims/debt recovery cases, the Directorate was able to recover debt for various parties up to the sum of N5,070,000.00 (Five Million andSeventy Thousand Naira Only).

S/N	COMPLAINTS RECEIVED	COMPLAINTS RESOLVED AND CONCLUDED
1	Tenancy Matters	231
2	Family/Matrimonial Matters	309
3	Gender Base Violence (GBV)	92
4	Land/Communal Conflicts Matters	96
5	Small Debts Claims	105
6	Bank/Customer Matters	17
7	Wrongful Demolition	08
8	Illegal Detention/Arrests	28
9	Defamation	06
10	Personal Injury	18
11	Breach of Agreement/Contract	36
	TOTAL	946

The total sum of Five Million and Seventy Thousand Naira (N5,070,000.00) only was collected and disbursed during the same period above.

A. Adeyemi, Esq.

Director of Citizen’s Rights

O. Akinlabi, Esq.

Deputy Director of Citizen’s Rights

DEPARTMENT OF LEGAL DRAFTING

The Department of Legal Drafting is saddled with the responsibilities of drafting Legislative Bills for the State and MDAs, drafting and vetting contract agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) between the State Government or MDAs and investors/business partners. The department is also responsible for clearing of Executive Council Memoranda.

The department also generates revenue to the State Government in four major ways namely;

Stamp Duties fees paid by contractors to the Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service;
1% of total sum of each contract paid by contractor to the State Government as Community Development fee;
2% of each contract sum paid by contractor to the government as Ekiti State Education Trust Fund; and
2% of each contract sum paid by contractor to the government as legal fees.

ACTIVITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LEGAL DRAFTING FROM OCTOBER, 2022 TO OCTOBER, 2023

BILLS DRAFTED

EKITI STATE ROADS FUND LAW, 2023
EKITI STATE RURAL ACCESS ROAD AGENCY LAW, 2023
EKITI STATE SPORTS COMMISSION BILL, 2023
EKITI STATE LOTTERIES AND GAMING LAW, 2023
EKITI STATE WEALTH FUND BILL, 2023
EKITI STATE LOCAL GOVERNMENT STAFF LOAN BOARD LAW, 2023
YORUBA LANGUAGE PRESERVATION AND PROMOTION LAW, 2023
EKITI STATE PUBLIC SERVICE STAFF CENTRE BILL, 2023
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND WATERSHED MANAGEMENT

AGENCY LAW, 2023

EKITI STATE DOMESTIC WORKERS BILL, 2023
EKITI STATE ELECTRIC POWER SECTOR BILL, 2023
EKITI STATE ADMINISTRATION OF PALACE COURT BILL, 2023
EKITI STATE PUBLIC PROCUREMENT MANUAL, 2023
EKITI STATE EXECUTIVE ORDER ON ESTABLISHMENT, ADOPTION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF FRAMEWORK FOR RESPONSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE LAND INTENSIVE AGRICULTURE (FRILIA).
EKITI STATE PUBLIC PROCUREMENT REGULATIONS, 2023
EKITI STATE FORESTRY AMENDMENT BILL, 2023
EKITI STATE DEVELOPMENT END INVESTMENT PROMOTION AGENCY (AMENDMENT BILL, 2023.

CONTRACT AGREEMENTS

S/NO.	NAME OF CONTRACTOR	IN RESPECT OF	AMOUNT	MINISTRY
1.	DAMOOT ENTERPRISE	Contract for the Additional Works on Renovation at the State Specialist Hospital	N95,663,255.36	Ministry of Health & Human Services Ado-Ekiti
2.	ROSTAL VENTURES	Contract for The Additional Works on Renovation at the State Specialist Hospital Ijero-Ekiti	N19,903,030.12	Ministry of Health & Human Services Ado-Ekiti
3.	DROMO INTERNATIONAL COMPANY LIMITED	Contract for the Reconstruction of failed culvert and other Auxiliary Works along Ilawe-Igede Road	N186,788,643.24	Ministry of Works & Transportation
4.	RUDY CONTRACTION NIGERIA LIMITED	Review of the Contract for the Construction of G.R.A. 111 Extension Road, Behind NTA, Ado-Ekiti	N1,409,967,903,75	Ministry of Works & Transportation
5.	LEADGATE GLOBAL CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LIMITED	Contract for the Rehabilitation of Ilawe-Igede Road	N494,868,328.22	Ministry of Works and transportation
6.	LEADGATE GLOBAL CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LIMITED	Contract for the Rehabilitation of Ilawe-Erijiyan Road	N746,746,787.03	Ministry of Works and Transportation
7.	DORTMUND AND COMPANY LIMITED	Contract for Additional Works on the Rehabilitation of some Selected Roads in Ado-and Ikere-Ekiti	N1,091,112,327,32	Ministry of Works and Transportation
8.	MR BABATUNDE THOMAS (TRADING UNDER THE NAME AND STYLE “TUKIN BS VENTURES”)	Contract for the Additional Works on Renovation at The State Specialist Hospital, Ikole- Ekiti	N104,216.105.41	Ministry of Health and Human Services Ado-Ekiti
9.	EXOTIC FINISHES	Contract for the Procurement of Furniture Items and Office Equipment for the Newly Established Customary Court of Appeal, Political Office Holders and Some Top Government Functionaries	N611,823,350.00	Ministry of Budget &Economic Planning and the Office of the State Auditor-General, Ado-Ekiti
10.	DORTMUND AND COMPANY LTD.	Contract Award for the Rehabilitation of Igbara-Odo-Ikogosi Road	N708,816,916.22	Ministry of Works and Transportation.
11.	MR. ALABA OGUNSAJO	Technical Assistant for the Conduct of Baseline Study and Development of Policy, Institutions and Regulation Plan for the Water, Sanitation Hygiene (Wash) Sector of Ekiti	N47,588,000.00	Ministry of Infrastructure & Public Utilities, Ado-Ekiti.
12.	DROMO INTERNATIONAL COMPANY LIMITED	Contract Award for the Construction of Major Concrete Works on Ado-Ilawe –Igbara Odo- Ibuji Road	N123,357,733.38	Ministry of Works and Transportation Ado-Ekiti.
13.	CCECC NIGERIA LIMITED	Contract Award for the Construction of Passengers Terminal Building at The Proposed Ekiti State Airport, Ado-Ekiti	N2,069,713,260.24	Ministry of Budget & Economic Planning and the Office of the State Auditor-General Ado-Ekiti
14.	SELOVIAN INTERNATIONAL LIMITED	Contract for the Additional Works on the Completion of Outstanding Building and Renovation at the Oba Adejuyigbe General Hospital, Ado-Ekiti.	N 264,953,231.98	Ministry of Health and Human Services Ado-Ekiti.
15.	CCESS NIGERIA LIMITED	Contract for the Construction of Passengers Terminal Building at Ekiti State Airport	N2,069,731,260.24	Bureau of Special Projects.
16.	MRS VICKY IDOKO- POPE	Contract for the Appointment as Consultant for the Development of Ekiti State Water Supply Sector Performance Improvement Action Plan (PIAP)	N46,000,000.00	Ministry of Infrastructure & Public Utilities.
17.	DR. OLUFEMI O. ALUKO	Contract for the Appointment as Consultant for the Development of Ekiti State Sanitation Sector Performance Improvement Action Plan (PIAP)	N46,000,000.00	Ministry of Infrastructure & Public Utilities
18.	KOURIS CONSTRUCTION NIGERIA LIMITED	Re view of Contract for the Rehabilitation of Agric Olpe-Morefere, Agric Olope -Odo- Ado Road.	N1,023,365,472.97	Ministry of Works and Transportation.
19.	IMMOBILIARE CONSTRUCTION LIMITED	Contract for variation of rates and additional works on the Rehabilitation of Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki Road	N7,801,100,194.35	Ministry of Works and Transportation
20.	KOURIS CONSTRUCTION NIGERIA LIMITED	Contract for the Renovation and Facelift of the New Governor House Facility, Oke Ayoba, Ado-Ekiti.	N285,821,753.75	Office of the Governor
21.	ROOSO RESOURCES NIGERIA LIMITED	Contract for the Reconstruction of failed Culvert and other Auxiliary Works at Efon-Alaaye	N86,207,781.08	Ministry of Works and Transportation
22.	FINTECH CONSULTANCY LIMITED	Business Service & Software Subscription Agreement
23.	CINFORES LIMITED	Service Level Agreement
24.	TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC.	Agreement for Electronic Payment Solutions
25.	INTEGRATED RIO LIMITED (PADDIPAY)	Agreement for Electronic Payment Solutions.
26.	PLANET PROJECTS LIMITED	Operation and Maintenance Agreement
27.		Agreement for the Renovation of the Old Governor’s Office
28		Agreement for Additional Works on the Construction of Major Works in Ado-Ilawe-Igbara Odo-Ibuji Road.
29.		Agreement for the Rehabilitation of Igbara Odo-Ikogosi Road.
30	CCECC NIGERIA LIMITED	Agreement for the re construction of Atlas Ájebamidele-Deeper Life-Shepherd-Omisanjana Road, Ado Ekiti	5,812,250,356.22	Ministry of Works
31	METRO CIVIL ENGINEERING CNSTRUCTION LTD	Reconstruction of Awo- Ara-Ijero Ekiti Road	2,762,317,183.78	Ministry of Works
32	PLATIMUM BEAM CONCEPTS LIMITED	Contract for the facility management of Governor’s office and Government house chalets	120,000.00	General Administration Department
33	DROMO INTERNATIONAL COMPANY LTD	Contract for the construction of Ikole-Ara- Isinbode Road	5,552,455,820.27	Ministry of Works
34	PECULIAR ULTIMATE CONCERN LTD	Contract for the variation of rates on the reconstruction of Ikere-Ilawe road	3,552,060,625.25
35	CIG MOTORS COMPANY LTD	Contract for the direct procurement of eleven (11) units of GS8 jeep and one (1) unit of GNS8 MPV 2021 model for official use of judicial officers in Ekiti State	578,006,000.00	Ekiti State Judiciary
36	DORTMUND AND COMPANY LTD	Contract for additional works on the rehabilitation of some selected road in Ado and Ikere Ekiti	1,091, 112,327.37	Ministry of Works

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING DRAFTED AND CLEARED.
Memorandum of Understanding on Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Employment. (Ministry of Education, Science & Technology)
Agric-Business Agreement between Ekiti State Government AmoByng Plc. (Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security)
Training of Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency’s Legal Officers (EKDIPA)
MOU between Bosal Microfinance Bank Limited and Ekiti State Government (Microfinance & Enterprise Development Agency)
Operation and Maintenance Agreement Between Ekiti State Government and Planet Projects Limited (EKDIPA)
Request for vetting and review of Agreement for Electronic Payment Solutions (EKIRS)
A bond document in respect Officers (Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State)
Review of Memorandum of Understanding between Ekiti State Government and Federal Government of Nigeria in respect of wherever upgrade (Ekiti State Drugs and Health Supplies Management Agency.
MOU between Nigeria Centre for Disease Control & Prevention (NCDC) and Ekiti State Government
MOU between the Kingdom of Morocco ( Oriental Region) and Ekiti State Government on Bilateral Cooperation
MOU between Habiba Dangana Fundation and Ekiti State Ministry of Justice for the purpose of collating seminal on Gender Based Violence Data
MOU for the release of part of the land housing Ogunnire Comprehensive High School, Ire-Ekiti to the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE)
MOU on the Ogbese Carbon and Timber Development Land Use Partnership.
MOU between Ekiti State Government and Nigerian Army on Command Secondary School, Isan Ekiti

LEGAL ADVICE ISSUED
On Loan Agreement in respect of offer of Four Hundred and Fifty Million (N450,000,000,00) Naira Zenith Bank facility (Ministry of Finance & Economic Development, Ado-Ekiti)
On Memorandum of Understanding on Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and
On MOU between Chief Samuel Famuko Family and Ekiti State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for Cocoa Colonial Garden in Eyio Ekiti (Ministry of Agric.)
On AMENDED MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING TO The Technical Head,

Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency

On the REVIEW OF THE CONTRACT AWARD FOR THE EXTERNAL

ELECTRIFICATION WORKS AT AGRIC OLOPE MARKET COMPLEX, ADO-EKITI TO The General Manager, Urban Renewal Agency.

On the REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE IN THE CORRECTION OF MOU DESIGNED FOR THE RELEASE OF A SECTION OF METHODIST GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL, IFAKI EKITI TO FUOYE AS A SATELLITE CAMPUS TO The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.
On MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR THE ENGAGEMENT OF AN ODI FELLOW FOR EKITI STATE DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION AGENCY.
On MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN EXCELLENCE

COMMUNITY EDUCATION WELFARE SCHEME AND EKITI STATE MINISTRY OF HEALTH.

NATIONAL COVID-19 RESPONSE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE EKITI STATE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND STERLING BANK.
On the REHABILITATION OF AYEBODE-EDA-ILE 6.0KM FARM ROAD.
On REHABILITATION OF AYEBODE-EDA-ILE 6.0KM FARM ROAD. INVITATION TO A MEETING BY THE HONORABLE ATTORNEY GENERAL AND COMMISSIONER FOR JUSTICE.
On the AGREEMENT FOR THE PROVISION OF SERVICES ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GLOBAL FUND RSSH GRANT BETWEEN NACA AND EKITI STATE GOVERNMENT
On theAGREEMENTS BETWEEN EKITI STATE WATER CORPORATION AND MESSRS FORSTE.CH NIGERIA LIMITED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF EKITI STATE WATER CORPORATION BUILDING AND SUPPLY OF FURNITURE.
On the CONTRACT AGREEMENT BETWEEN SERGITTARIUS NIGERIA LIMITED/HANA WATER CONSERVANCY No2 ENGINEERING BUREAU LIMITED AND EKITI STATE WATER CORPORATION.
Legal advice on the contract for the comprehensive refurbishment of six (6) Units of Fire Fighting Vehicles in the fleet of the Ekiti State Fire Service Department (Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities).
On the proposed construction of hostels at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado Ekiti.
On the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (Fifth Alteration) N0.6, N0.23, No.25 and No.29 Bill, 2023

CLEMENT ILESANMI AYOOLA, ESQ.

Director

ADENIYI FELIX AKINOLA, ESQ.

Deputy Director

DEPARTMENT OF LAW REVIEW, LEGAL RESEARCH AND STATISTICS

The Department of Law Review is a major unit of the Ministry of Justice which is saddled with the responsibility of the compilation and depository of all Legislation and Executive Orders applicable in Ekiti State.

It is equally reviews the Laws for necessary amendments, adaptations or even abolition with the aim to promote rule of law, good governance, and to meet the realities of the present societal needs. It undertakes legislative audit of all Laws passed by the Ekiti State House of Assembly. The Department also provides leadership to legislative advocacy of the Ministry of Justice, leading to public discussions on Executive Bills to be presented to the Ekiti State House of Assembly and also Audit all Laws passed by the Ekiti State House of Assembly for the purpose of achieving socio-economic reforms to meet the challenges of our day to day lives.

The department in collaboration with some ad-hoc committee comprising some Directors of the Ministry of Justice had done a comprehensive review of all the 5 volumes of the existing Laws of Ekiti State 2010 and the Department also has in its archives some Executive Orders issued by the State Government.

The Department also took step as directed by the Hon. Attorney-General towards publishing a new set of Ekiti State Laws into Gazette formats with some of its Yoruba translated versions for ease of reference.

It took depository of the following laws:

Ekiti State Victims’ of CRIME LAW 2021
Ekiti State Political Offices (Gender Composition) Law, 2022
Ekiti State Pension Reform Law, 2022
Ekiti State Administration of Council Justice (First Amendment) Law, 2022
Ekiti State Audit Service Commission (Second Amendment) Law 2022
Ekiti Knowledge Zone Authority Law 2022
Ekiti State Economic Development Council (First Amendment) Law 2022
Creation of Additional Local Government Areas in Ekiti State (Third Amendment) Law, 2022
Creation of Three Local Council Development Areas in Ekiti State (Third Amendment) Law, 2022
Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti Law, 2022
Ekiti State Open Defecation Free Law 2022
Ekiti State Multiple Births Trust Fund Law, 2022
Ekiti State Infrastructure Maintenance Agency Law, 2022
Ekiti State Local Content Law, 2022
Hotel Occupancy and Restaurant Consumption Tax Law, 2022
Ekiti State Listed Sites (Reservation) Law, 2022
Ekiti State Wealth Fund Law 2023
Ekiti State Fire Service Law, 2023
Ekiti State Local Government Staff Loans Board Law, 2023
Ekiti State Roads Fund Law, 2023
Ekiti Rural Access Roads Authority Law, 2023
Yoruba Language Preservation and Promotion Law, 2023
Ekiti State Local Government Administration Law, 2023

It is pertinent to note that there are some laws in the press that will be published into gazette formats. These are:

Ekiti State Rural Access Roads Authority Law, 2023
Ekiti State wealth fund Law 2023
Ekiti State Roads Fund Law, 2023

ADEBAYO TITILAYO LYDIA, ESQ.

Director,

OLUWASEUN FASOTE, ESQ.

Deputy Director

DEPARTMENT OF ADVISORY AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT LIAISON SERVICES

The Ekiti State Ministry of Justice is compartmentalized into 9 departments and they are saddled with the responsibilities of handling various litigations and advisory matters that may emanate from government’s dealings. It is on this premise that the Department of Advisory and Local Government Liaison was established by the Attorney General and Honorable Commissioner for Justice with the responsibilities of rendering legal services for all the 16 Local Governments and 22 Local Council Development Areas of Ekiti State.

2.0 ACTIVITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT IN YEAR UNER REVIEW.

2.01 WRITING OF LEGAL ADVICE

2.02 The Department during the period has proffered legal advice to the various civil petitions and letters emanating from the various local governments Areas and Local Council Development Areas of Ekiti State assigned to it by the Attorney General and the Solicitor General. In all, we have treated well over 100 in the period under review.

2.03 The outstanding ones would be dealt with when the required responses from the relevant MDAs are received.

3.00 LOCAL GOVERNMENT

3.01 The Department serves as Liaison Office for the Sixteen Local Governments and twenty-two Local Council Development Areas of Ekiti State. We have been able to do this effectively, managing the litigation profiles without failing. This singular feat has been able to save the government particularly the Local Governments and the Local Council Development Areas of Ekiti State from incurring heavy professional fees which they used to pay external solicitors.

3.02 The Department has been able to streamline the litigation dockets in the period under review. Presently, the Department is handling cases for the following Local Governments among others:

A.) Ado-Ekiti

B.) Ikere-Ekiti

C.) Ilejemeje,

D.) Irepodun/Ifelodun

E.) Moba

F.) Ekiti South West

G.) ljero-Ekiti

H.) Oye-Ekiti

3.03 In addition to the foregoing cases, it is worthy of note that the Department has been engaging in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) where the Department consider it to be the best option in the circumstance. Some of these are: Pastor Peter Ajayi Vs. Ado-Ekiti West Local Council Development Area; Komolafe Ola Vs. Ikere-Ekiti Local Government and; Honourable Ajepe Vs. Ado-Ekiti Local Government to mention but few.

RESUSCITATION OF AGRIC OLOPE MARKET

3.04 The Counsel in the Department along with other stake holders in the other MDAs are in the process of resuscitating Agric Olope market. The Department was able to guide the State Government in coming up with an Executive Order that served as guide for the Task Force set up by Mr. Governor in respect of the market.

4.00 APPOINTMENT OF LEGAL ADVISERS TO MDAs

4.01 Primarily, one of the major reasons for establishing this Department is to ensure that the Department serves as a store house for the posting of Legal Officers as Legal Advisers to the various Ministries, Departments andAgencies (MDAs) in the State. This has eventually changed the narratives asthe Ministry (through our department) is now fully in charge of who serviceeach Ministry as against the old trend where the MDAs used to choose for us.

4.02 Flowing from the above, the Department has been able to post Legal Advisers to all the MDAs including Deputy Governor’s Office and State House. The State is now better placed in Courts as against the old trend where we normally inherit bad cases for government due to non-involvement of legal advisers’ in most of the dealings ab- initio.

4.03 DRAFTS DIRECTIVE ON COORDINATING LEGAL ADVISERS TO MDAs

Legal Advisers are to ensure a cordial relationship between their place of assignment and that of the Ministry of Justice.
Attending to and resolving legal issues that may be referred to the various legal advisers timeously, effectively and conscientiously.
Familiarizing themselves with the specific legal needs of their MDAs.
Forestalling and unnecessary litigation which would have involved the MDAs.
Ensure that all legal advice on all issues relating to their MDAS are first cleared with the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary before final Issuance so as to avoid conflict of idea or policy and to ensure that only quality legal advice emanates from the Ministry or her legal officers.

REFLECTION OF THE DEPARTMENT’S DOCKET IN TABLE

S/N	DESCRIPTION	NUMBER OF CASES	STAGE	REMARK
1.	LITIGATION	10	5- COMPLETED 3- INTERLOCUTORY 2-TRIAL
2.	LEGAL ADVICE	100	76
3.	DISPUTE RESOLUTION	35	35

J. ADELUSI, ESQ.

Director

DEPARTMENT OF CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL LAW

The Department of Commercial & Corporate Law is saddled with the responsibility of handling all corporate matters generally and all Commercial Agreements related cases on behalf of the State (either within Ekiti State or outside the State) and matters relating to ease of doing business in Ekiti State.

The department of Commercial & Corporate Law renders legal advice to Ministries, Departments, Department and Agencies on commercial related issues.

Law (WASH Law), which provides for the incorporation of the Ekiti Water and Sewage Company Limited, the department has completed the incorporation of EKITI WATER AND SEWAGE COMPANY LIMITED at the Corporate Affairs Commission.
Following the Establishment of Small Claims’ Court, the Department worked hand in hand with the Registrar and the Presiding Magistrate of the Small Claims’ Court and the office of the Chief Registrar for the timeous conclusion of Small Claims’ cases.
The Department together with the Judicial Officers in charge of Small Claims’ Court in order to expedite the cases before them agreed that after parties reaches an agreement to settle such a case; same should be reduced to Terms of Settlement and consequently adopted by the Parties to form a Consent Judgment of the Court in line with the Practice Direction on Small Claims’ Court. This has greatly increased the number of judgment of the Court.
In the year under review, Two Hundred and Thirty-One (231) Judgments were delivered by the Small Claims’ Court.

Finally, in the year under review, the department issued several MEMOs and legal advisories in respect of commercial transactions and ease of doing business in Ekiti State. The Department issued a memo for the establishment of Multi Door Court in Ekiti which will enhance alternative dispute resolution related cases as provided by the Administration of Civil Justice Law to enhance commercial practices in Ekiti State. The department has prepared the Practice Direction for this purpose in this regard.

The department was instrumental to the issuance of a Power of Attorney to Pension Transition Arrangement Departments (PTADs) to enable recover monies for and on behalf of the State and LGAs with respect to granting access to deceased pensioners’ bank accounts.

The department played a major role in the establishment of the Small Claims Court while it also compiles Land and Commercial-related cases pending before the Customary Courts, Magistrates’ Courts and High Courts in Ekiti State.

YETUNDE RACHAEL KOLAWOLE, ESQ.

Director

E. AROGUNDADE, ESQ.

Deputy Director

DEPARTMENT OF RESEARCH & PUBLICATIONS

The Department of Research and Publications has the mandate to compile and publish the Ministry of Justice Annual Activity Report, the Ekiti State High Court Judgments and Palace Court Judgments among other responsibilities.

The department also serves as rapporteur at State Committees, Public Service Programs and assists with the compilation of the recommendations of the various stakeholder. The department also collaborates with other departments or agencies to draft, review or edit legal instruments and policies.

The department serves as a depository for Final Reports of Panels of Inquiry set up by the State on justice sector issues. The department oversees the Ministry of Justice Law Library and Ministry of Justice Bookshop which was officially commissioned on the 8^th day of October, 2021.

– The department compiled the year 2022 annual report of the activities of the Ministry.

– The Director was a member of the Committee that compiled and produced the first set of the Ekiti Ministry of Justice diary in March, 2023.

– The department also compiled and published the activities of the various departments of the Ministry from October, 2022 to September, 2023.

OLUSEGUN KOWE, ESQ.

Acting Director

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR GENERAL AND PUBLIC TRUSTEES

OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATOR GENERAL AND PUBLIC TRUSTEE

The Office of Administrator – General and Public Trustee is a statutory office created by the Administrator-General Law, the Laws of Ekiti State of Nigeria. The Office is charged with the statutory responsibility of managing and equitably sharing the assets of estate of person(s) who died intestate.

However, under special circumstances the AG & PT may act on behalf of estate of deceased persons who left a Will especially when the person names the Administrator – General and Public Trustee as the executor of the Will.

The Office of Administrator – General and Public Trustee has the mandate to ascertain, collect, manage and distribute the assets to the beneficiaries of the estate who have proved their relationship to the deceased in accordance with relevant laws. The office also determines all liabilities payable by the estate.

The Office of Administrator-General and Public Trustee is headed by the Administrator-General and Public Trustee. The Office is supported by a pool of professionals and dedicated officers comprising of Legal Officers, Accountant, Auditors, and administrative officers and other supporting staff.

OPERATION OF THE OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATOR GENERAL AND PUBLIC TRUSTEE

The Office of Administrator-General and Public Trustee:

protects and manages estate,
recovers assets and proceeds due to estate and settle liabilities,
verified and disburses the death benefits to next of kin of public officers who died in active service,
facilitates and obtains letters of administration and reseal same where the other assets are outside Ekiti State,
partitions and issues vesting Deed to beneficiaries; and
represents and defends estate in court.

CATEGORIES OF ESTATE COVERED BY THE OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATOR-GENERAL AND PUBLIC TRUSTEE

By the enabling law, the Office of Administrator-General and Public Trustee is empowered to manage the following categories of estate:-

where a minor is a beneficiary in an estate;
where the deceased person(s) died in active service with or without next of kin;
where the Administrator-General and Public Trustee is appointed as executor in a Will left by the Testator (author of the Will0;
where no executor is appointed or where executors appointed in a will have refused to act or have renounced their powers: and
where a court gives an order.

REVENUE

The office also generates revenue to the government through administration of oaths.

DISBURSEMENTS:

In the course of carrying out its operations, the Office received the sum of One hundred and Thirty One million, Five hundred and Thirty Two thousand, Six hundred and Ninety Nine naira, Twenty Nine kobo (N131, 532,699.29) only from January 2023 till date from Pension Commission for disbursement to the beneficiaries of the deceased.

Receipt of a total sum of One Hundred and Thirty-One Million, Five Hundred and Thirty-Two Thousand, Six Hundred and Ninety-Nine Naira, Twenty-Nine Kobo (N131,532,699.29) from Pension Commission for disbursement to the beneficiaries of the deceased.

47 Letters of Administration were processed from January, 2023 till date by the Office of the Administrator General and Public Trustee while 24 are still under processing at the Probate Registry of the High Court.

FOLORUNSO AJAYI, ESQ

Director

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND SUPPLIES

The Department of Administration and Supplies provides daily routine support in the administration of the Ministry of Justice particularly in ensuring that matters involving the Ministry and staff are handled and processed in accordance with the provision of the Public Service Rules, Establishment and External Circulars. The Department also carries out general administration duties bordering on the control and coordination of personnel and equipment. Being a service support department, all its functions are geared toward assisting other Departments for an effective implementation of the mandate of the Ministry of Justice.

Structure

The Department has five (5) units, namely:

Establishments
Training, Board and Management
Maintenance and Services
Welfare
Stores and Supplies

Functions

The functions of the department centers mainly on the efficient management of both human and material resources of the Ministry. These include:

Advising the Management on general administration, establishments and personal matters;
Providing secretariat services to the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy;
Handling senior and junior Staff matters (promotion and Discipline);
Implementing the Ministry’s Management decisions;
Processing applications for secondments, transfers, upgradings, conversions of staff, regularization and merger of service, requests for Seminars, Conferences and Workshops for both local and international;
Regulating Staff training and Development;
Preparing the Ministry’s nominal roll, department/unit staff list and reviewing same on a regular basis;
General maintenance of the Ministry’s equipment, furniture and provisions of other related utility services for better service delivery;
Ensuring documentation of all Staff, organizing inductions/orientation courses for the newly employed Legal Officers;
Issuance of annual, maternity, casual and study leave advice to deserving staff and processing their resumption of duty certificate;
Purchase on behalf of the Ministry in line with requests from Departments and issuing of job Orders and Local Purchase Orders (LPOs) as well as auctioning of unserviceable furniture and equipment in the Ministry

ACTIVITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT

Preparation of the 2023 personnel budget,
Compilation of the applications for Prerogative of Mercy for convicted inmates,
Maintenance of existing office furniture and equipment,
Supervision of the on-going renovation of the Ministry of Justice Office complex
Facilitate the conversion of the employment status of nine (9) temporary staffs to permanent appointment.

ADEKUNLE EMMANUEL ADELEYE

Director

DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE AND ACCOUNTS

The Department of Finance and Accounts is a service Department to other Departments of the Ministry. In line with the Financial Regulations and other Government’s extant rules, the Department renders financial advice, guidance and reports on the finances and budget of the Ministry for the Accounting Officer. The Department is principally charged with the responsibility of financial management of the Ministry of Justice.

The Department ensures compliance with the new Account Policy
Produces monthly report on the account of the Ministry and the Employee’s Payroll

OLUFUNSO LOLA SOLA-SALAMI

Director

AFFILIATED AGENCIES

OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC DEFENDER, EKITI STATE

(An Overview of the Office of the Public Defender Ekiti State)

INTRODUCTION

The Office of the Public Defender (OPD) was created on 21st August, 2015, but attained its legal status vide the Office of The Public Defender Law, No. 13 of 15^th December, 2015.

OUR VISION

To ensure just and fair society.

MISSION STATEMENT:

The central purpose and role of the OPD is defined as to:

Promote access to Justice for the Indigent through collaborative efforts with relevant stakeholders and institutions.
Promote, protect, and defend the rights of indigent citizens.
Strengthen and support the Justice sector through the adoption of plans and policies at the Local, State and Federal levels.
Provide free legal representation for the indigent and the vulnerable as the need arises.
Promote the settlement of matters through the Alternative Disputes Resolution (ADR) mechanism.
Interface with relevant law enforcement agencies within the State

GOVERNING COUNCIL OF THE OFFICE

In accordance with section 5 of the Law establishing the Office, the Governing Council of the office is as follows:

Chairman
Executive Secretary
Two (2) Part-Time members
Representative of International Federation of International Women Lawyers (FIDA)
Representative of the Nigeria Bar Association, Ekiti State

FUNCTIONS OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY OF THE OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC DEFENDER

Section 2 of the OPD Law, states the major functions of the Office as follows:

Provision of free legal services and advice in accordance with the law;
Receive complaint directly from individuals or referrals, from government offices, public institutions and private institutions;
Investigate complaint or referrals made to it;
Prepare necessary legal documents, negotiate settlement or give legal advice necessary to fulfill the purpose of this law;
Resolve matters brought before it by way of Alternative Dispute Resolution;
Publicize its services by informing and sensitizing the public about its services
The Office of the Public Defender refers complaints brought before it to other government agencies, non-governmental organizations or any other body that shall assist it to perform its functions;
Organize symposia, conferences, educational activities, workshop and exchange programmes on legal aid and related matters in furtherance of its function

SECTION 11 of the law empowers the Office of the Public Defender to attend to cases of both civil and criminal matters in Courts.

DEPARTMENTS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY’S OFFICE

The Executive Secretary is the accounting officer, having the following units:

Internal Audit
Planning, Research, Statistics
Library and Public Relations
ICT

DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND SUPPLIES

Oversees all personnel matters
Coverage of meetings
General correspondence (memo etc)
Oversees sanitation and security matters
Maintenance of government physical assets i.e Vehicles, Building, Furniture and Utility
General procurement and supervision of store and;
Any other duties that may be assigned.

DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE AND ACCOUNTS

Collation and rendition of returns
Maintenance and Control of Revenue Records
Attending to relevant financial matters
Serves as secretariat to Cash Allocation Committee Meeting
Preparation of Annual Appropriation Account
Control and maintenance of necessary records and Bank Accounts
Board of survey and enquiries

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL LITIGATION

Defends indigent persons in civil cases in court
Mediates between contending parties

However, the Department commenced operation in January 2016. It has handled and concluded several matters both in court and through mediation in the following areas:

Contract
Child’s Rights, Custody and Maintenance

Labour/Employment Matters

Land matters
Tenancy matters
Domestic Violence

Dissolution of marriage
Debt and loan recovery

Recovery of property
Compensation
Family matters/marital disputes

DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL MATTERS

The Department is saddled with the responsibility of defending indigent persons in criminal cases in court. The Department has power to invite parties for mediations and also refer matters to other law enforcement agencies for prosecution when need be. The scope of the department is as follows:

Domestic Violence
Sexual abuse

Unlawful arrest/Detention

Armed Robbery matters
Burglary etc.

KEY RESULT

The Office has handled successfully over 3,453 cases within the periods of October, 2022 and September, 2023. These cases borders on mediation, criminal and civil matters involving indigent persons.

REPORTS ON THE OUTSTANDING AND CONCLUDED CASES HANDLED BETWEEN October, 2022 – September, 2023

YEAR 2023	DOMESTIC VIOLENCE	CHILD CUSTODY & MAINTENANCE CHILD ABUSE	BREACH OF CONTRACT	LEGAL AID	MARITAL DISPUTE	ASSAULT	RECOVERY OF PROPERTY LAND DISPUTES (GRABBING)	TOTAL
2022 OCT. – DEC	177	152	91	127	184	57	168	956
2023 JAN – SEPT.	493	434	401	137	469	121	442	2,497
TOTAL	670	586	492	264	653	178	610	3,453

GRAND TOTAL OF CASES ATTENDED TO BETWEEN OCTOBER, 2022 – SEPTEMBER, 2023 (3,453)

ANNUAL REPORT ON CASES IN COURT BETWEEN OCTOBER, 2022 – SEPTEMBER, 2023

YEAR	CIVIL MATTERS	CRIMINAL MATTERS	TOTAL
2022	11	9	20
2023	63	41	104
TOTAL	74	50	124

GRAND TOTAL 124

The office has been able to recover the sum of N14,424,690 for child’s maintenance, women and other indigent clients

ADVOCACY

The Office frequently carry out various advocacy programmes using media organizations such as Ekiti State Broadcasting Service. We also have frequent interface with the Commissioner of Police and other Law Enforcement Agencies within the State.

TRAINING, SEMINAR AND WORKSHOP

The Office often organizes workshops and sensitizations on the Roles of Stakeholders in Curbing Domestic Violence, sexual abuse and general vices for Law Enforcement Agencies/Organizations having the same objectives with OPD.

The Office also rolls out Sexual Abuse Awareness Programmes for secondary schools students to curb the menace across the State.

ON-GOING ACTIVITIES/PROPOSED ACTIVITIES

Continuation of Sensitization on curbing Sexual Abuse Programmes in Secondary Schools across the State.
Sensitization of primary school pupils on their rights in accordance with Child’s Rights Law, 2006.
Interfacing with Market Women on the rights of women and children.
Public Awareness on the need to explore the mediation mechanisms for dispute resolution.
Strengthening and collaborating with Palaces’ Courts within the State.
Interfacing and synergizing with the various law enforcement agencies within the State.

BOLANLE WALE-AWE, ESQ.

Executive Secretary

E. AMINU, ESQ.

Director

LEGAL STAFF (OPD)

BOLANLE WALE-AWE ESQ. – Executive Secretary
E. AMINU ESQ – Director
MARCUS OLUWATOYIN ESQ – Deputy Director
BADE GBOYEGA T. K. ESQ. –
ABIOYE OLUWASEYI OPEYEMI

PROFILE OF EKITI STATE LAW REFORM COMMISSION

The Commission was established by the Ekiti State Law Reform Commission Law No. 3 of 2014 as amended by the Ekiti State Law Reform Commission (First Amendment) Law No. 13 of 2020.

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to review and reform all Laws of Ekiti State following consultative monitoring with a view to effecting necessary changes to make them modern, fair, just, efficient and accessible and in consonance with the prevailing social and moral values of the society.

OUR VISION

Our vision is to be a veritable tool or instrument in the reformation and modernization of the Laws of Ekiti State and in codifying them to conform with the realities of a modern day society.

THE MAJOR BUSINESS

The major business or mandate of the Ekiti State Law Reform Commission is to keep under review all Laws of Ekiti State with a view to their systematic development and reform in consonance with prevailing norms of the Ekiti State society. That is to keep under review all Laws of Ekiti State and recommend its reform to ensure among other things:-

That the Law conforms to the letter and spirit of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended;
That the law systematically develops in consonance with the values and principles enshrined in the Constitution;
That the law is, among others, consistent, harmonized, just, simple, accessible, modern and cost-effective in application;
That the public are informed of review or proposed review of any Law; and
Keep an updated database of all Laws passed and reviewed or amended by the Ekiti State House of Assembly.

EKANEM AKPAN
Executive Secretary

News

Ekiti state government has reaffirmed it’s commitment to fighting
insecurities and crime across the state.

The state Attorney and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata SAN
gave the assurance while receiving the state Commissioner of Police in
his office in Ado Ekiti.

Mr Apata, SAN who commended the state police command for maintaining
low record of crime in the state, said that the administration would
be ready to support the security outfits in the state to fight
insecurity.

The state Attorney General welcomed the state police commissioner and
promised the support of the present Administration to the police
command in the state.

In his remark the Ekiti state Police Commissioner, Mr Dare Ogundare
lauded the support of the present administration to the command and
solicited for more.

CP Ogundare stated that the command was ready to work with Ministry of
Justice on legal issues that involve the police command in the state.

At the occasion were the state Solicitor general, Mr Sunday Bamise,
the Directors of the ministry and top Police officers from the State
command.

GWR: EKITI GOVERNMENT BANS PLANNED KISS-A-THON
…propagators risk three years jail term

The Government of Ekiti State has issued a notice that it would
prosecute owners of facilities that would be used for a proposed 3-day
Kiss-A-Thon programme which is aimed at breaking a Guiness World
Record (GWR).

According to a Prohibition noticed signed by the State Attorney
General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN) in Ado-
Ekiti on Thursday, any person or corporate body that allows himself/
herself and facilities to be used in executing the proposed programme
in the State would be prosecuted before an appropriate court.

Apata said the State Government considered the proposed programme as
“an indecent act, absurd, unhealthy and capable of denigrating the
image of Ekiti State and same is contrary to the law of Ekiti State”.

The Attorney General added that the planned Kiss-A-Thon programme is
contrary to sections 148 and 150 of the Criminal law (2021) which
prohibits indecent acts and practices in the State, and anyone who
violates the law is guilty of felony and is liable to imprisonment for
three years.

“The Ekiti State Government has been inundated with a proposed planned
3-day prograamme by some individuals in Ekiti State tagged KISS-A-THON
(a programme meant to be a 3-day kissing marathon event planned
towards setting a Guiness World Record). The State Government has
considered the proposed planned event as an indecent act, absurd,
unhealthy and capable of denigrating the image of Ekiti State and same
is contrary to the law of Ekiti State, particularly sections 148 and
150 Criminal Law no 21 of 2021 which prohibits indecent acts and
practices in Ekiti State”.

“That pursuant to the provisions of the law and any other relevant
laws applicable in Ekiti State, the proposed programme tagged
KISS-A-THON is hereby prohibited throughout the breadth and length of
Ekiti State.

“Consequently, no individual or corporate body is allowed to embark
upon and/ or execute the proposed planned KISS-A-THON in Ekiti State.
That any person and/or corporate body that allows himself or herself
and /or facilities to be used in executing/ propagating the proposed
planned programme in Ekiti State will be prosecuted before the
appropriate court and dealt with according to the law ”, the Attorney
General stated.

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