Graceville Chambers

06/10/2025

JUSTICE FOR THE DEAD OR INJUSTICE FOR THE DEFENDANT?

The, defendant, now appellant, a 22-year-old unmarried lady, who was apparently a pr******te, living in a hotel in Apapa, Lagos State, was on her way to a nightclub in Apapa when she got involved in a struggle with the deceased, who offered her a ride in his car at about 2 a.m.

The deceased demanded oral s*x from the appellant. The struggle in the deceased's car involved the use of a knife owned by the deceased but used by the appellant on the deceased several times, which resulted in the death of the deceased after a struggle because she claimed to be resisting forced oral s*x demanded by the deceased. She fought for her life and shouted for help.

The appellant was arraigned at the High Court of Lagos State on a one-count charge of Manslaughter, contrary to Section 317 (1) of the Criminal Code Law of Lagos State. The appellant pleaded not guilty to the charge. Prosecution and appellant both admitted that the deceased engaged in a struggle with the appellant at the scene of the incident, which involved the use of a knife. Both parties agreed that the deceased slumped and died at the scene of the struggle with the appellant.

At the conclusion of the trial, the appellant was convicted of the offence of Manslaughter and sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment by the High Court of Lagos State. The Court of Appeal affirmed the judgment of the High Court of Lagos State. On further appeal, the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal and upheld the Court of Appeal's decision.
(SAHEED V.THE PEOPLE OF LAGOS -SC/417C/2019 delivered Friday, 13th December 2024)

06/06/2025

Join us to celebrate our Senior Partner, a distinguished solution driven lawyer, a critical thinker and quintessential leader...
Happy Birthday to Orobosa Obabueki, Esq.

16/01/2025

Today we celebrate one of our most efficient and resourceful Associate Partners, Dorwurah Nwidadah Agoba, Esq as she bagged Masters-in-Law (LL. M) with a strong bias in Energy Law.

Congratulations!!!

03/12/2024

STATEMENT BY THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION ON THE ARREST OF DELE FAROTIMI AND ALLEGED INVASION OF HIS LAW FIRM

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is gravely concerned about the arrest of Dele Farotimi on allegations of libel, as well as the reported invasion of his law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises. These actions constitute a troubling breach of the rule of law and the sanctity of the legal profession.

While the Nigerian Police Force has the authority to investigate crimes, this power must be exercised within the confines of the law and in respect of offenses recognized under Nigerian law.

We must reiterate that the alleged offense of libel, for which Dele Farotimi was reportedly arrested, is not recognized as a criminal offense under the laws of Lagos State. The Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 repealed the criminalization of defamation by omitting it from its provisions. This progressive legislative move aligns with global best practices, which treat defamation as a civil wrong rather than a criminal offense.

The Supreme Court in Aviomoh v. Commissioner of Police & Anor (2021) affirmed this position. Justice Helen Ogunwumiju, JSC, unequivocally held that defamation ceased to be a criminal offense in Lagos State following the enactment of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011. This authoritative pronouncement leaves no room for doubt.

Furthermore, under Sections 4 and 24 of the Police Act, 2020, the Nigerian Police Force is mandated to act only about conduct that constitutes a criminal offense under Nigerian law. Arresting individuals for non-criminal matters, such as defamation in Lagos State, is not only unlawful but also a blatant violation of the principles of legality and the rule of law.

Of equal concern is the reported invasion of Dele Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises. Reports that phones were confiscated from lawyers and staff during this invasion highlight a severe disregard for the sanctity of legal practice and the constitutional rights of individuals. The legal profession is a cornerstone of justice and democracy, and any attempt to undermine its independence is a direct assault on the rule of law.

The NBA unequivocally condemns the invasion of Mr. Farotimi’s law firm, the harassment of its lawyers and staff, and the unlawful seizure of their phones. Such actions are not only a violation of the constitutional right to dignity and privacy but also an affront to the independence of the legal profession.

We, therefore demand the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, as his arrest lacks any basis under the laws of Lagos State. The authorities must swiftly launch an investigation into the invasion of his law firm, with the findings made public and those responsible held accountable.

We urge law enforcement agencies to prioritize the principles of legality, fairness, and respect for human rights in their operations. These principles are foundational to justice, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ freedoms.



Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President
Nigerian Bar Association

13/09/2023

Today we celebrate one of our most resourceful and competent Senior Associates Dorwurah Nwidadah Agoba . It is our prayers that your new age will be characterized and embellished unprecedented opportunities, celebrations and laughter.

We love you!

The Graceville Team

07/09/2023

Our Principal Partner was on air today where he navigated through the Regulatory Landscape of Property Transactions in Nigeria.

02/09/2023

Our Partners at the just concluded NBA- AGC, Abuja.

07/08/2023

Today we celebrate one of our resourceful Senior Associates Winifred O. Aigbokhan, Mrs.

We see you breaking limits and taking territories in your new age.

With love from:

The Graceville Team

18/05/2023

Join us celebrate one of our vibrant and resourceful lawyers. A glorious birthday BOLAJI...

With Love from from all of us @
Graceville Chambers

17/04/2023

Congratulations to our Principal Partner Matthew Ero , Esq on your appointment as a member of the Anti Corruption Committee of the NBA Standing and Ad Hoc Committee by the President and National Executives of the NBA.

We pray for the grace to serve faithfully and the wisdom to navigate through successfully.

The Graceville Team.

13/04/2023

That feeling when you finished cross- examining the Prosecution's star witness and the clients of other counsel left the court room with you and started running after your team to get your contact...

Graceville Chambers Team...

03/11/2022