The Supreme Court of Nigeria has refuted claims that Justice Emmanuel Agim accompanied Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to a convocation ceremony at the University of Calabar.
Akande Festus, Director of Information and Public Relations for the apex court, released a statement on Monday clarifying the circumstances of Justice Agim’s attendance. “In light of the reports circulating on social media and other news platforms, we wish to clarify the circumstances surrounding the attendance of Hon. Justice Emmanuel Akomaye Agim of the Supreme Court of Nigeria at the convocation ceremony of the University of Calabar on Saturday, 22nd March 2025,” Festus stated.
The statement addressed the misinformation circulating. “It has come to our attention that misleading information has emerged, suggesting that Hon. Justice Emmanuel Agim accompanied the Hon. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, to the ceremony. We hereby dispel this false narrative.”
Festus clarified that Justice Agim attended as an honouree. “Justice Agim attended the event as an honouree and alumnus, having been deemed worthy by the university’s Governing Council to receive an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Law.”
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The statement highlighted Justice Agim’s contributions to the legal profession. “He was recognised for his significant contributions to the legal profession, which reflect his commitment to justice, integrity, and the rule of law, serving as a model for aspiring legal professionals and students alike.”
Festus explained Justice Agim’s decision to attend the convocation. “Although Justice Agim was initially scheduled to attend the burial ceremony of Justice Stanley Alagoa in Bayelsa State alongside other Supreme Court Justices, he sought permission to attend the University of Calabar convocation instead.”
The Supreme Court emphasized Justice Agim’s independent participation. “Justice Agim’s participation was entirely independent and not in any official capacity for any government ministry or department. Any insinuation to the contrary is not only inaccurate but undermines the judicial independence that is crucial to our democracy.”
The statement concluded with a call for responsible reporting. “We encourage the public and media to verify information through credible sources before sharing or publishing, to prevent the spread of misinformation.”