Plenary Session 1:
Topic: Legal Practice, Domestic Violence And Child Abuse Matters: A Jurisdictional Comparison.
Chairperson: Hon. Justice Ejembi Eko.
Concept Note:
Gender based violence and abuse of children is a common occurrence in Nigeria and other countries. It is as much a social issue as it is a legal one. In our jurisdiction, laws have been put in place to punish offenders. What has been the journey so far with the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and similar laws?
How effective have the laws and their implementation been?
As social engineers, what additional role(s) if any; should lawyers play in ensuring effective implementation of prosecution of offenders of gender- based violence and child abuse cases? Are our courts; like the family court equipped to effectively dispense justice in these cases?
What is the position/experience in jurisdictions outside Nigeria?
Are there any takeaways that would require amendments to extant laws in Nigeria?
Plenary Session 2:
Topic: Law Practice In The Digital Age: Balancing Professional Responsibility And Technological Innovation.
•Chairperson: Chairperson Hon. Justice Peter A. Akhihiero
Concept Note:
The objective of this session is to explore the ethical consideration of practicing law in a technologically advanced environment, emphasizing the need to balance professional responsibility with the ever-evolving landscape of technological innovation.
The session will shed light on the legal implications surrounding client confidentiality in the digital era and address the evolving regulatory landscape, including data protection laws, privacy regulations, and industry-specific compliance requirements that lawyers and legal professionals must navigate to ensure and maintain the ethical mandate of the profession.
It will examine among others, the following:
the legal framework and regulations on data privacy, and information security in the use of digital communication tools and platforms, Al and Legal Technology;
Safeguarding clients’ personal data and digital assets in a fast-developing digital space;
Lawyers’ role in ensuring the confidentiality, privacy, and compliance in line with local and international practice standards.
Plenary Session 3:
Topic: Dispute Resolution In Investment Matters In Nigeria: Investments & Securities Tribunal In Focus.
Chairperson Hon. Amos Issac Azi.
Concept Note:
The Investments & Securities Tribunal (IST) is a world-class specialist court in the Nigerian financial system that decides investment disputes within 3 months.
The Supreme Court’s decision of 13/1/2023 confirming its exclusive jurisdiction makes an understanding of the peculiar facilities & features of the IST imperative for visionary lawyers to be able to meet clients’ needs & expectations in an ever increasing borderless commercial environment.
The expository session, from the broad views of judges, legal practitioners & academia, is to equip legal practitioners on the when, where & how to approach the IST.
Plenary Session 4:
Topic: Tyranny And Dictatorship Of Election Petition: Where Is Justice?
•Chairperson: Mrs. Nella Andem-Ewa SAN
Panelists:
Mazi Osigwe, SAN
Chukwuka Ikwuazom, SAN
Dr. Orowhuo Okocha
Tobenna Erojikwe, Esq.
Concept Note:
The phrase justice delayed is justice denied is an old phrase popularised by former British Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone on 16 March 1868 during a debate in the British House of Commons.
Its election “season” once again and matters are now pending before several Election Petition Tribunals across Nigeria. We are also confronted with the concerning scenario of Judges in courts being posted to various jurisdictions across the country to adjudicate over election petition matters.
The immediate consequence is that “normal” civil, commercial and criminal cases amongst others have to “suffer” essentially because there are no judges to preside over them.
William Ewart Gladstones phrase rings true of what afflicts the justice sector this season. What steps can be taken to assure the litigating public that justice is meted out equally to the ordinary man on the street and the one who wants to take elective position? How can we ensure expedited justice and preserve its quality?
Notwithstanding constitutional provisions, how can we have a justice system that is unaffected by seasonal hiccups caused by election petitions? Are there examples in other jurisdictions that can be followed etc.
Closing Dinner & After Party.
Time: 7pm
