The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) has petitioned the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef O. Fagbemi, SAN, objecting to the appointment of Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, SAN, the current President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), as a member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA).
In the petition, dated July 30, 2024, NBA-SPIDEL alleges that Mr. Maikyau has exhibited disregard for the rule of law, violated court orders, and engaged in misconduct while serving as NBA President. The organization contends that Mr. Maikyau’s conduct demonstrates a lack of the “highest moral reputation” required for PCA membership.
The petition cites specific instances of alleged misconduct, including Mr. Maikyau’s purported disobedience of a Delta State High Court order restraining the NBA from holding a conference, as well as his alleged tampering with NBA-SPIDEL’s bank account while related court cases were pending. NBA-SPIDEL also notes that Mr. Maikyau is currently facing committal proceedings in a Delta State High Court for alleged disobedience of a court order.
NBA-SPIDEL is demanding the immediate recall of Mr. Maikyau’s nomination to the PCA, stating that his membership “gravely diminishes the majesty and esteem” of the Court and “exposes it to public odium and ridicule.” The organization has threatened to pursue the matter directly with the PCA and other international bodies if their demand is not met.
The petition, signed by NBA-SPIDEL suspended Chairman John Aikpokpo-Martins and Secretary Funmi Adeogun, asserts that the Attorney-General was likely unaware of the alleged misconduct prior to Mr. Maikyau’s nomination. NBA-SPIDEL believes these allegations render Mr. Maikyau unfit to represent Nigeria at the prestigious Permanent Court of Arbitration.