The Customary Court in Abuja has fixed February 16, 2021 for judgement in the case filed by Intellectual Property Lawyers Association, Nigeria seeking a declaration that bata dance is the root of salsa dance.

The court presided over by Hon. Olufemi Yemisi, Hon. Akinfiresoye Tosin and Hon. Ehusani Simpa heard the testimony of Expert witnesses, Mr. Opeyemi Raji, Mr. Seun Awobajo and Mr. Omolade Dalmas.

Mr. Raji and Mr. Awobajo, veteran members of the Guild of Nigerian Dance Practitioners, gave their testimony in person while Mr. Dalmas, a dance historian, testified virtually.

The Customary Court in a landmark and notable ruling had earlier granted leave for the hearing of Expert evidence by virtual means.

Commending the witnesses, Presiding Judge, Hon. Olufemi Yemisi observed that “the testimony of the Experts demonstrating this rich cultural heritage has been quite informative, captivating, entertaining and enlightening”.

In his final summation, Counsel to the Applicant, Mr. Folarin Aluko of Trumann Rockwood Solicitors, prayed the Court to grant the orders sought for the recognition, preservation and celebration of the culture of the Yoruba people of Southwest Nigeria.

He urged the Court to validate the historical and cultural contributions of the Yoruba’s Bata dance in the interest of natural justice, equity and good conscience.

Counsel to the Respondent, Mr. B. Y. Atsen and Ebenezer Amadi urged the Court to do justice in the circumstance.

The suit which has garnered considerable local and international attention seeks the judicial recognition, authentication and declaration of Bata dance of the Yoruba people of Southwest Nigeria, as the origin and source of Salsa.

Follow Our WhatsApp Channel ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials

“Evidence Act: Complete Annotation” by renowned legal experts Sanni & Etti.

Available now for NGN 40,000 at ASC Publications, 10, Boyle Street, Onikan, Lagos. Beside High Court, TBS. Email publications@ayindesanni.com or WhatsApp +2347056667384. Purchase Link: https://paystack.com/buy/evidence-act-complete-annotation

______________________________________________________________________ “Enhance Legal Practice With Authoritative Reports” — Alexander Payne Offers Comprehensive Law Reports, Spanning Over A Century Of Nigerian Jurisprudence

Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via: 0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888 Website: www.alexandernigeria.com

______________________________________________________________________