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Prof. Ben Nwabueze, SAN, LL.D: The Exit of a Legal Colossus

Published

2 years ago

November 1, 2023

Eric

BY Prof Mike Ozekhome SAN, CON, OFR, FCIArb, LL.M, Ph.D, LL.D, D.Litt, D.Sc.

The death, on Sunday the 29th day of October, 2023, of Prof. Ben Nwabueze, SAN, brought to an end, arguably, the first generation of Senior Advocates of Nigeria. The first ever set SANs in Nigeria comprised of legal giants, Chief F.R.A. Williams and Dr N.B. Graham-Douglass (both now late),who took the Silk on 4th March, 1975. There was a three year period of interregnum between 1975 and 1st of December, 1978, when this academic and legal Colossus was silked with 12 other legal titans such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Remi Fani-Kayode, Mr T.A.Bankole-Oki, Mr E.A.Molajo, Mr Kehinde Sofola, Chief Richard Akinjide, Mr G.O.K. Ajayi, Mr Olisa Chukwura, Dr Nwakanma Okoro, Dr Mudiga Odje, Mr P.O. Balonwu and Dr Augustin Nnamani. Nwabueze was certainly the first from the academia, based strictly on his published works. His first love was the classroom and he bestrode it like the Colossus he was. He was thus justifiably called “the Professor of Professors”. He remained a teacher and mentor of many generations of legal academics both in Nigeria and beyond till his last breath. I am one of his beneficiaries who compared notes with him and drank from his inexhaustible well of knowledge and wisdom.
But, let us go back to the beginning, for the morning tells the day.

IN THE BEGINNING
Prof Ben Nwabueze was born in Nigeria, at a time when the country was under British colonial rule. He grew up in a society where opportunities for education were limited, especially for individuals from less privileged backgrounds. Despite these challenges, young Ben’s unquenchable thirst for knowledge and insatiable curiosity served as the driving forces that would propel him towards academic greatness.
By his own account (“Ben Nwabueze: His Life, Works and Times: An Autobiography”, published by Gold Press Ibadan, in 2013), Prof Nwabueze was born in Atani, in the present Ogbaru Local Government of Anambra State, on the 22nd day of December, 1932. With such humble beginnings, there was little indication of the shining star that he was to become in the legal profession.

EDUCATION
Prof Ben Nwabueze started his primary education at CMS Central School in his village of Atani, in Ogbaru LGA of Anambra State, between 1938 and 1945. Thereafter, he proceeded to CMS Central School, Onitsha, between 1947 and 1950. From 1956 to 1961, he attended the London School of Economics and Political Science, after which (between 1961 and 1962), he attended the School of Oriental and African Studies, London. It is important to point out that Prof. Nwabueze acquired most of his University qualifications on scholarships which were awarded to him by sheer dint of his academic excellence.

WORKING LIFE
Between 1962 and 1965, Prof. Nwabueze lectured at the Holborn College of Law, London. Upon his return to Nigeria, he took up appointment as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (between 1967-1970), after which he once again left Nigeria – this time, to Zambia, first, as the Dean of the Faculty of Law of the University of Zambia, and subsequently, between 1973 and 1975, as the Director of that country’s Law Practice Institute (the equivalent of our Law School).

ACADEMIC RECOGNITION
Prof. Nwabueze’s recognition across the African continent gives the lie to the saying that a prophet has no honor in his homeland. This is because he was a member of the Governing bodies (“the Senate”) of the Universities of Lesotho, Botswana, Swaziland, Haile Selassie (Ethiopia), Dar-es-Salam – not to mention Lagos, in his home country. In addition to this, he was also an Assessor for Academic Appointments in the Universities of Ghana, Jos, Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo), and Lagos. He was appointed to Professorial Chairs in the Universities of Nigeria, Nsukka, Zambia, Anambra State University of Technology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He later served, meritoriously, as the General Counsel of a first-generation bank, the United for Africa (UBA).

DEDICATION TO LEGAL SCHOLARSHIP
Ben Nwabueze’s dedication to legal scholarship was unwavering. His contributions in the field of law were simply vast and varied. He authored numerous books and articles, each one a testament to his keen intellect and deep understanding of the subject matter he dealt with. His works on constitutional law, administrative law, and human rights law have become foundational texts for generations of law students, legal practitioners and members of the Bench.

One of his most influential works, “The Presidential Constitution of Nigeria,” delved into the complexities of Nigeria’s constitutional structure, drawing attention to issues of federalism, decentralization, and the balance of power. Nwabueze’s insights and recommendations have guided discussions on constitutional reforms in Nigeria for decades, serving as a blueprint for the country’s path towards a more just and equitable society and governance structure.

In addition to his academic writings, Professor Nwabueze was an active participant in legal reform and advocacy. He served on numerous government committees and panels, providing his expert input on various legal and constitutional issues. His contributions to the development of Nigeria’s legal system were not only profound, but also instrumental in shaping the nation’s legal landscape.

CHAMPION OF CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS
Professor Nwabueze was a tireless champion of constitutional reforms in Nigeria. He recognized that the country’s constitutional framework needed to evolve to better address the changing needs and aspirations of its diverse peoples. His passion for a more inclusive, equitable, egalitarian and just society was evident in his unrelenting pursuit of constitutional reforms.

Nwabueze’s advocacy for constitutional reforms often placed him in the role of a constitutional watchdog. He scrutinized proposed constitutional amendments and reforms, ensuring that the fundamental principles of justice, equity, and democracy were upheld. He believed that a well-crafted Constitution was the cornerstone of a just society, and he worked tirelessly to help Nigeria achieve this ideal state.

His role in the struggle for democracy in Nigeria during the military regimes of the 1980s and 1990s was instrumental to major changes. As an outspoken advocate for democratic governance and the rule of law, Nwabueze played a critical role in shaping the political landscape of the country. His unwavering commitment to democratic principles and his determination to see Nigeria transits to a democratic system were at the forefront of his endeavors.

In 1994, Nwabueze co-founded the Constitutional Rights Project (CRP), a non-governmental organization dedicated to the promotion of civil liberties, human rights, and the rule of law. The CRP became a powerful voice for justice and democracy in Nigeria, and Professor Nwabueze’s leadership was a beacon of hope during some of the country’s darkest times.

LEGACY IN LEGAL EDUCATION
While Professor Nwabueze’s contributions to legal scholarship and constitutional reforms were immense and gargantuan, his impact on legal education was equally profound. He was not only a prolific writer, Philosopher and thinker, but also a dedicated educator who inspired a generation of countless students throughout his career.

His teaching style was characterized by a commitment to intellectual rigor and a demand for excellence. Nwabueze believed in challenging his students to think critically and to develop a deep understanding of the law’s principles and applications. His teaching went beyond the classroom; it was a form of mentorship, instilling in his students a sense of responsibility to use their legal knowledge for the betterment of society.

Many of his former students have gone on to become accomplished lawyers, judges, academics, and leaders in various fields of human endeavor. His influence was not limited to the confines of the classroom, but extended to the very fabric of Nigerian society, where his students have played pivotal roles in shaping the legal, political, and social landscape.

In recognition of his contributions to legal education, Nwabueze was honored with numerous awards and accolades. He served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies. His impact on legal education was far-reaching, making him a pillar of the academic community.

ADVOCATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE
Ben Nwabueze’s commitment to social justice extended beyond the legal realm. He was an advocate for equality, human rights, the rule of law and the well-being of all citizens. His involvement in social and political causes reflected his intense dedication to a more just and equitable society.

One of his notable contributions was his works in the area of human rights. Nwabueze was a behind-the-scene voice in the founding of the Civil Liberties Organization (CLO) in Nigeria in 1987, an organization pioneered and co-founded by this writer and others, which is dedicated to the promotion and protection of civil liberties and human rights of Nigerians. Through CLO , he addressed issues of injustice, inequality, and abuse of power, standing up for the marginalized and oppressed.

Throughout his life, he demonstrated a deep concern for the less privileged and a commitment to improving their conditions. His advocacy efforts were not limited to the courtroom, but extended to the streets, where he actively participated in many protests and campaigns for social justice, especially during successive military juntas.

A LIFE OF INTEGRITY
Professor Ben Nwabueze was a man of unblemished integrity and solid character. He held himself to the highest ethical standards and was a role model for those who had the privilege of knowing him or coming across him. His principled approach to life and work was a source of inspiration to many, and his actions consistently demonstrated his commitment to the greater good.

Nwabueze’s integrity extended to his role as a public servant. He was not swayed by political interests or personal gain, but rather, he focused on the welfare and interests of the Nigerian people. His honesty and steadfast dedication to the nation’s well-being earned him respect across political lines and within the international community.

A VISIONARY LEADER
Prof. Nwabueze’s contributions to Nigeria went far beyond the confines of his academic and legal work. He was a visionary leader who sought to shape the nation’s future in a manner that reflected his deep commitment to justice, democracy, and the rule of law.

His vision for Nigeria was one of a united, democratic, and just nation where all citizens had equal opportunities and rights. He recognized the importance of inclusivity and the need for a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. His vision, which was rooted in the principles of federalism, constitutionalism, and respect for diversity, remains a source of inspiration for those who seek to build a better Nigeria.

LEGACY AND IMPACT
The Oduah Afo-na-Isagba of Atani’s legacy is immeasurable. His impact on the Nigerian society, the legal community, and the broader field of constitutionalism transcends his lifetime. He will forever be remembered as a beacon of intellectual rigor, a tireless advocate for justice and democracy, and a role model for integrity and ethical conduct.

In the field of law, his contributions will continue to shape the education of future lawyers and Judges and the practice of legal professionals. His writings on constitutional law will remain foundational texts for scholars and practitioners, guiding the evolution of Africa and Nigeria’s constitutional framework for generations to come.

In the realm of constitutional reform, Nwabueze’s vision and advocacy will inspire future generations to work towards a more just, inclusive and equitable society. His passion for a united and democratic Nigeria will continue to influence those who strive for a better nation.

In the broader context of social justice and human rights, his works have left an indelible mark on the struggle for equality, social justice and the protection of civil liberties. His dedication to the welfare of the less privileged will serve as a lasting testament to the power of advocacy in effecting positive change.

PUBLICATIONS
The erudite scholar that he was, Prof. Nwabueze really came into his element in academic research. This saw him producing a prodigious wealth of scholarly works, including over thirty books and treatises with an average of 400 pages, on a diverse range of topics, albeit with a constitutional bent or flavor. He also authored over 200 articles in academic journals, as well as more than 100 keynote lectures in local and international conferences. Prof. Nwabueze’s seminal books on constitutional Law: Constitutionalism, Presidentialism, and Judicialism, earned him the prestigious (and rarely- awarded) distinction, in 1978, of being only the second Nigerian (after Dr. T.O Elias) to be awarded the LL.D doctorate degree laurel, not honoris causa, but based on his solid academic works.

IN THE COURT
However, Prof. Nwabueze no less excelled in courtroom advocacy, as he was often consulted as amicus curiae by all levels of courts in Nigeria and beyond, particularly the apex Court. On each occasion, he was acknowledged and applauded for his profound and unique scholarly insights into the subject matter under discourse. Indeed, he was probably the foremost and pre-eminent living Senior Advocate of Nigeria of letters at his death.

PUBLIC SERVICE
Prof. Nwabueze’s recognition at home was arguably cemented by his appointment by the Babangida administration in the early 1990s, as the Minister of Education and Youth Development. This was in addition to being the Secretary-General (between 1978 and 1984) of the pre-eminent pan-Igbo cultural organization, Ohaneze Ndigbo, an organization he co-founded in 1976, with prominent Igbo sons such as Dr Akani Ibiam, Dr Michael Okpara, Dr K.O. Mbadiwe ( the man of timber and Caliber),Chief Ugochukwu, P.M. Okigbo and Chief Jerome Udoji

The recipient of the prestigious CON National honour and the National Order of Merit (NNOM) was so concerned by the future of the Nigeria Project that, together with the late Chief F.R.A. Williams, SAN, he co-founded the Patriots, a group of eminent elders, who sought to enrich the public space with their advice and opinions when the ship of the Nigerian State sailed perilously and precariously into troubled waters in the wake of the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

About a quarter of a century earlier, however, Prof. Nwabueze was reportedly behind the abolition of Nigeria’s historical Federal structure and its replacement by the government of Gen. Aguiyi-Ironsi, with a unitary system. He was said ro have been the silent adviser. This singular act was cited by the leaders of the July 1966 counter-coup as one of their main reasons for sacking Ironsi’s government which counter coup cost him his life. It is said that since then, Nigeria has never really recovered the Federal system of government that it hitherto enjoyed, being now replaced with an unofficial unitary system of government. Whether his alleged participation in the abolition of a federal template for Nigeria is correct or not is left for historians to unearth.

CONCLUSION
In conclusion, I dare say that the passing of Professor Ben Nwabueze is an irreplaceable and irreparable loss to Nigeria, Africa and the world. Arguably no Nigerian – living or dead – matched Prof. Nwabueze’s prodigious output in terms of scholarly legal and academic literature. In this, he was simply awesome. His contributions to legal scholarship, literature, constitutional reforms, education, egalitarianism and social justice were nothing short of extraordinary and phenomenal. His life was a testament to the power of intellect, character, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of society.
As we remember and celebrate his life and times, let us draw inspiration from his uncommon example. Let us continue the good works he started, striving for justice, human rights, democracy and the rule of law. In honoring his unforgettable memory, we celebrate the values and principles he held dear; and we commit ourselves to the noble pursuit of a better, more just and equitable world. Professor Ben Nwabueze’s legacy will endure as a beacon of hope and an eternal source of inspiration for generations to come. Indeed, an Iroko has fallen. His passage brings to a close an entire chapter of the legal profession. May his great soul rest in peace and in the bosom of the Lord. Amen, Adieu, my hero. Farewell my guardian constitutional lawyer from whom I drew incredible inspiration.

Goodbye, Africa’s foremost constitutional lawyer.

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Rebels Without a Cause! Oborevwori, Eno; Who’s Next?

Published

22 hours ago

June 23, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The spate of defections from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has continued to generate topics of discourse among the nation’s political elites, and analysts, with many wondering what the attraction could be?

Many have described the defections as a form of rebellion, whose cause is still unknown; a replica of the 1955 blockbuster romance/action movie, ‘Rebel Without a Cause’.

In a space of two months, two notable governors of the South South states of Delta and Akwa Ibom, Sheriff Oborevwori and Umo Eno, have ditched their parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), defecting the APC, thereby handing over on a silver platter the states have been PDP since 1999 to the APC. Their reasons have aligned with what a political stakeholder, Kenneth Okonkwo described as ‘transgenderic’.

Giving reasons for his defection, Oborevwori, through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, said it was not about political survival but the need to realign with the federal government in the interest of Delta State.

He said the defection is geared towards reshaping the 2027 electoral landscape and boosting the state’s access to federal partnerships.

“Governor Oborevwori’s decision to align with the APC is a strategic and thoughtful move driven by a singular objective: to fast-track Delta State’s development through enhanced collaboration with the federal government.

“This decision is not about political survival or personal ambition it is about putting Delta first.

“At this critical juncture in Nigeria’s democratic evolution, alignment with the center offers states a rare opportunity to attract greater federal support, foster inclusive governance, and unlock critical infrastructure and economic investments.

“As a seasoned legislator and grassroots politician, Governor Oborevwori understands that Delta State cannot afford to remain on the periphery of national politics. His defection reflects a bold and necessary step to reposition the state for lasting progress,” the statement said in part.

While receiving Oborevwori to its fold, the APC noted that several prominent leaders of the PDP, including former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and all elected legislators, chairmen and councillors of local governments and wards, appointed members of the executive, both at the state and federal level joined the foray into its fold.

In a statement in April, the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Felix Morka, described the defection as a major political development and expressed the party’s excitement over the move.

“The National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress, under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, is highly elated by the decision of the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Sheriff Oborevwori, to join our great party,” the statement read.

The APC emphasised its readiness to fully integrate the new members.

“Our great party welcomes this important development and assures the governor, as well as incoming leaders and members of Delta PDP, of our fullest cooperation and accommodation within the APC family,” Morka stated.

In a voice similar to Oborevwori’s a few weeks later, Akwa Ibom state governor, Umo Eno rekindle the defection story, also citing the need to be close to federal power, even as he had no immediate need to do so.

Justifying his decision to dump the party that made him governor, Pastor Eno went biblical, aligning himself with the children of Issachar in the Holy Bible, who were able to interpret the times and season. The governor had hinted of his defection earlier, saying “What Akwa Ibom people want is good governance, not the name of the party”, giving political watchers the impression that there was no good governance in Akwa Ibom, and that only belonging to the APC guarantees good governance for a state.

The PDP however, described the governor’s move as a personal decision that contradicts the will of the people, noting that the 2027 election would be about Nigeria and not individual politicians.

The APC governors, on their part, rejoiced and warmly welcomed him and his team into their fold, assuring him that he would not regret his decision to join them, saying it was a homecoming for him and that they would support him.

Justifying his defection, Eno stated in his speech that “From time, the political space, particularly in this state and the nation in general has been awash with news of my likely movement from the PDP, the platform that had provided the levers and ladders of my political ascendancy to the position of Governor of this state. This discussion has elicited various layers of analysis in the process. Today, I answer some of those nagging questions.

“This morning, I submitted a formal letter of resignation from the PDP to the Ward Chairman, same copy has been sent to both the State Chairman as well as the National Chairman. I thank the PDP for their support, their love and for working with me for the past two years in the affairs of running Akwa Ibom state.

“But this is a defining moment. I’ve therefore decided, after due consultations with all critical stakeholders across the state in the last three months. I believe no one has moved progressively or has ever changed party in this state that has consulted as widely as I’ve done. That consultation culminated in meeting with all the critical stakeholders in the PDP last night where I explained that as the children of Ichaka, we must be able to interpret and flow with the times and not run against the tide.

“Having completed the rounds of consultations, as your servant you’ve elected to serve you, I have therefore decided to progressively move to the All Progressives Congress (APC). I state categorically that I have by today’s (yesterday’s) event changed my political affiliation, but will continue to uphold my values, my moral fibre, foundational principles I’ve nourished through my life. Those values will remain unchanged and I will always work with you regardless of party affiliations.

“Coming from the PDP, I make it emphatically clear that we’re not joining the APC from a position of weakness. We’re joining from a position of strength, bringing value to the APC in Akwa Ibom, wanting to build back a party that has once been torn apart, where people go their different direction. We’re supporting the President for a second term in office to complete reforms he has started. I have decided to join the train of the President, to support him, so I will not be accused of being anti-partisan. Today I’ve made the bold declaration to join that train.”

Eno’s defection however, recorded a dent as his Commissioner for Special Duties, Ini Ememobong, immediately resigned from office, citing the need to retain his principles.

But others have said that Oborevwori, Eno and their co-travellers in the defection saga may be justified in their act seeing that Nigeria politics is a case of winner takes all. And in addition to the crises rocking the opposition, it may be difficult to ascertain the exact signatory that would guarantee their reelection in 2027, which key, authentic officials of the political parties are still in contention.

If the excuses the defectors are giving are anything to go by, more defections may follow. The suspended governor of Rivers State, Sir Sim Fubara, may likely jump ship into the APC to protect his political future.

The governors of Enugu, Bayelsa, Kano, Abia and many more, have at one time or another rumored to be flirting with the opposition, APC. Their defections in the nearest future may just be a 50/50 bet.

Governor Douye of Bayelsa has since denied any link to APC of intention to defect.

Time will tell.

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Embrace Learning, Collaboration Others to Boost Career Success, Fidelity Bank MD Charges Women

Published

1 day ago

June 23, 2025

Eric

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, has encouraged women professionals to embrace continuous learning, courage, and collaboration as key habits for achieving long-term career success and breaking through professional barriers.

She gave the charge during a Women’s Roundtable hosted by the bank over the weekend at the Fidelity SME Hub in Gbagada, Lagos. Themed “Mentorship with Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe”, the event drew female professionals from various sectors and was held under the Recognition and Networking arm of the bank’s HerFidelity Proposition, a flagship initiative designed to empower women entrepreneurs and professionals across Nigeria.

Explaining the vision behind HerFidelity, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe noted that the initiative was born out of a strong need to provide women with holistic support beyond access to finance.

“In my engagements with women across different industries, I’ve seen first-hand that while talent and ambition abound, many still lack access to capital, skills development, health support, and networks,” she said.

“HerFidelity was created to bridge that gap by focusing on four key pillars: access to capital, capacity building, wellness for work-life balance, and entrepreneurship support. It’s one of the initiatives I’m most proud of, because when women thrive, communities prosper and economies flourish.”

The interactive mentorship session, held in a Q&A format, offered participants an opportunity to learn directly from the trailblazing CEO, who shared personal experiences and career insights.

Advising young women aspiring to leadership, she said: “Believe in yourself, be ready to work hard, and never shy away from taking smart risks. Seek out mentors, invest in meaningful relationships, and above all, collaborate, because no one truly succeeds alone.”

The event also featured fun competitions and giveaways, with attendees winning exciting gifts courtesy of Fidelity Bank.

Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s session left participants inspired, reinforcing Fidelity Bank’s position as a champion for gender empowerment and a leading supporter of women’s advancement in business and leadership

Featured

Police Finally Nab Lagos Most Brutal Killer, Akinwande, after Decade-long Hunt

Published

2 days ago

June 22, 2025

Eric

The police in Lagos State have finally arrested the most feared and wanted hired killer, Wasiu Akinwande aka Olori Eso, signposting a major breakthrough in the fight against violent crimes.

The 44-year-old suspect, described as a “vicious and notorious” cultist kingpin and the head of a deadly killer gang, was captured on June 20, 2025, in a well-coordinated special operation by the Command’s Tactical Squad operatives.

Announcing the arrest in a statement on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, described Akinwande as “the most wanted suspect in Lagos history in recent time.”

Hundeyin said the operation that led to his arrest was carried out with precision after months of surveillance and intelligence gathering.

He noted that the suspect was finally apprehended at his hideout in the Agbado area of Ogun State after managing to evade arrest for years by fleeing across State lines.

“For over a decade now, from 2009 until 2024, Wasiu Akinwande and his gangs have terrorised the people and communities, particularly in the Mushin area of Lagos State,” Hundeyin said.

“He was responsible for organising and executing series of armed robberies, cold-blooded murders, kidnappings and cult-related killings,” he added.

The suspect’s reign of terror reportedly instilled fear and panic among residents of Mushin and its environs.

The police described his arrest as a significant victory in its campaign against violent crime and a testament to its resolve to ensure justice for victims.

Following his arrest, police operatives raided his residence in Mushin, where a cache of arms and ammunition was discovered.

According to the police, Akinwande admitted that the weapons were used in his numerous operations.

Items recovered from the premises included multiple assault rifles, pump-action guns, pistols, magazines, live ammunition of various calibres, a dagger, walkie-talkies, and nine international passports belonging to different individuals.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), to lead a team of specially selected detectives to expand the investigation and track down other members of Akinwande’s gang.

At least four families have already come forward to identify the suspect as the man responsible for the deaths of their children and wards, adding to the growing list of allegations against him.

In his reaction, CP Jimoh commended the operatives involved in the operation, describing their efforts as a demonstration of courage, professionalism, and dedication.

“We are proud of the operatives who risked their lives to bring this violent fugitive to justice. Lagosians can sleep a little easier knowing this killer is off the streets,” he said.

The Commissioner reassured the public that the safety and security of Lagos residents remain the Command’s top priority.

“The Lagos State Police Command remains steadfast in its mission to make Lagos a no-go area for criminals and ensure the safety and security of all Lagosians and visitors alike,” Jimoh said.

The police said Akinwande is currently in police custody under tight security and will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

The police have also appealed to members of the public to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that will aid crime-fighting efforts across the State.