… Lawyers are noble people-Okutepa, SAN
From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Associate professor of law at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, Prof. Mohammed Bello Magaji has authored a book on banking industry, saying yahoo boys are threats to banking activities in the country.
Prof. Magaji also wrote his 10th law book which was presented to the public on April 27, 2024 at the auditorium of the School of law, American University of Nigeria ( AUN), Yola.
The book on banking covers key points like constitutional framework of banking law in Nigeria, legal requirements for establishing a bank in Nigeria, the legal nature of banker-customer relationship, contractual obligations of customer, amongst others.
In a chat with our Correspondent shortly after the event, Prof. Magaji said, “I was motivated to author the book by the need to get the general reading public acquainted with the law of banking in view of its central role in the economy of the country and the recent technological and statutory developments in the banking sector.
“I will not subscribe to the notion that the banking business is full of frauds. It used to be so, but lately due to the regulatory and supervisory role of the CBN these menace has been curtailed to some extent.It only remains the fraudulent activities of the so called yahoo boys that pose a threat to a healthy banking sector.Victims of such activities would be assisted by the EFCC and the investigative units of the banks.
“The complimentary copies of the book were presented to dignitaries including legal luminaries at the Bench, Bar and academia”.
Speaking at the event as the guest lecturer on the topic, “The nobility of the legal profession: The task before the Nigerian Bar Association,” Chief Jubrin Samuel Okutepa (SAN) explained that lawyers are noble people who ensure justice and equity in the society as well as serving as mirror the society look into.
According to Okutepa, “One of the key reasons why the legal profession is considered noble is its commitment to upholding justice. Lawyers serve as advocates for their clients, ensuring that they receive a fair trial and have their rights protected. By representing individuals in legal proceedings, lawyers contribute to the administration of justice and help ensure that the legal system operates fairly and impartially. Furthermore, lawyers play a crucial role in defending the rule of law.
“They are responsible for interpreting and applying laws, ensuring that they are upheld and enforced. By upholding the rule of law, lawyers help maintain order in society and prevent the abuse of power. This commitment to the rule of law is essential for the functioning of a democratic society and the protection of individual rights.
“Moreover, the legal profession is noble because of its dedication to advocating for social justice. Lawyers often take on pro bono cases or work for public interest organizations to address systemic injustices and promote equality. By using their legal expertise to advocate for marginalized communities and promote social change, lawyers contribute to the advancement of a more just and equitable society”.