The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has asserted that there is no law in Nigeria that prevents the prosecution of minors.
He stated that the recent arraignment of some protesters, including minors, on charges of treason, was entirely appropriate, contrary to claims made by some critics.
Fagbemi clarified, “There is a misconception circulating that the charges are inappropriate simply because some of those involved are minors. Various theories have been put forward, but they are unfounded.
“There is no law in this country that prohibits the trial of minors,I’ve also heard suggestions that they should be sent to a family court.
“However, a thorough examination of the law and the Constitution makes it clear that the Federal High Court has jurisdiction over matters involving treason and related offenses.
He added, “In any case, the President has resolved the matter by deciding to have these young individuals released.”
Fagbemi made these remarks on Thursday evening, November 7 in Katampe, Abuja, during the inauguration of the new office of the law firm, Law Corridor.
He noted that, given the seriousness of the offenses involved, it was clear that the case was substantial.
However, he added, “Despite the gravity of the situation, President Bola Tinubu, as both a father and grandfather, made the decision to pardon them and drop the charges.
“The President showed great compassion. With all the facts in the possession of the security agencies, one would be astonished. But the President, guided by his role as a father and grandfather, chose to act out of empathy, deciding to release them and offer them a chance for a better future.
“The credit for showing compassion and consideration in releasing the young individuals goes to him,” Fagbemi remarked.
Regarding the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government financial autonomy, Fagbemi explained that its implementation would be a gradual process.
He assured that he would not take on a project he could not see through to completion.
“It will take time to fully implement, but rest assured, it will be done,” he said. “By the time it is fully realized, everyone will be satisfied. I do not start projects I am unable to finish.
“The President is satisfied with the outcome, and the general public’s reaction to the Supreme Court’s decision indicates that the President could not have handled it any better.”
Fagbemi called for greater collaboration among lawyers to enhance expertise, expand capacity, improve risk management, and deliver more benefits.
He emphasized that it is no longer ideal for individual lawyers and their firms to work in isolation, pointing out that partnerships enable lawyers with diverse knowledge and skills to work together for more effective legal practice.
Fagbemi explained that such partnerships offer comprehensive legal solutions to a wider range of issues, fostering creativity and advancing jurisprudence.
“When experienced practitioners collaborate with younger lawyers, the next generation gains valuable insights from their mentors. In turn, younger lawyers bring fresh perspectives, driving adaptability and innovation within the profession.”
Fagbemi further highlighted that partnerships offer benefits such as sustainability and resilience, fostering accountability and creating a support network to better meet client expectations.
“Collaboration strengthens relationships, which are crucial in the legal profession, as clients prefer a team that understands their needs and provides comprehensive solutions,” he noted.
The Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), who chaired the event, encouraged lawyers to prioritize trust and be strong partners in their professional relationships. He also urged legal practitioners to continuously nurture integrity in their work and uphold high ethical standards as the foundation of their practice.
Pelumi Olajengbesi, Managing Partner of Law Corridor, described the firm as “an innovative and cosmopolitan legal powerhouse, uniquely positioned to practice across a wide range of traditional and modern legal fields.
Olajengbesi added, “We are a partnership committed to the highest standards of legal excellence, with a team of seasoned experts who bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of both simple and complex legal matters
“We adeptly handle traditional practice areas, corporate law, and emerging legal fields, all while maintaining a strong commitment to ethical standards, thorough due diligence, and fostering enduring client relationships.”
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