The Management of the Ekiti State Judiciary has officially vacated an order issued by the Ikole Ekiti Magistrate Court on January 23, 2025, stating that the ruling does not reflect the image and principles of the judiciary.

In a press release signed by the Chief Registrar of the Ekiti State High Court, Olanike Adegoke Esq., the judiciary expressed deep regret over the order and reaffirmed its commitment to justice, fairness, and transparency.

At the ongoing Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, addressed disturbing reports that a Magistrate in Ekiti State allegedly ordered the arrest of any lawyer seeking to lift a freezing order on behalf of their clients.

The NBA President assured members that the association would swiftly investigate the matter. If confirmed, the NBA would take decisive action, including the possibility of boycotting proceedings at the affected court.

The alleged directive, reportedly issued at the Ikole Magistrate Court, has triggered outrage within the legal community, with many condemning it as a direct assault on the legal profession and the constitutional right of lawyers to represent their clients without fear or intimidation. The NBA has vowed to uphold the rule of law and hold accountable any judicial officer or legal practitioner involved in what it describes as an unacceptable affront to justice.

The controversial ruling, issued by Chief Magistrate Oluwadare T.O., mandated the arrest of any lawyer or individual attempting to lift a Post-No-Debit (PND) order on a suspect’s bank account without proper authorization from the police. The case, involving the Inspector General of Police against Keystone Bank and the Nineteenth Kid Estate Residents Association, centered on allegations of fraud, conspiracy, and financial misconduct.

In response, the Ekiti State Judiciary has set up a Panel of Inquiry to investigate the matter and recommend appropriate actions. The judiciary reassured the public of its commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability in the administration of justice.

The press release was copied to key legal stakeholders, including the Hon. Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice of Ekiti State, as well as the Chairpersons of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) branches in Ado-Ekiti, Ikole-Ekiti, and Ikere-Ekiti.

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The Ekiti State Judiciary thanked the public for their continued trust and support, pledging to ensure that all judicial processes remain transparent and fair.

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