Abuja, Nigeria – July 6, 2025 — In a celebration of legal scholarship and future-forward advocacy, renowned legal luminary Paul Hasterris Ogbole, SAN, was honoured by the Law Students Association of Nigeria (LAWSAN), University of Abuja Chapter, at a high-impact Inter-Chamber Moot Court Trial Competition held in his name.
According to legallinkz.com, The moot trial focused on the live-wire constitutional case: Attorney General of Lagos State v. Attorney General of the Federation, centering on the legality of the Federal Urban Development Authority Act (FUDAA), enacted in 2024.
The law—which seeks to empower a federal agency to regulate land use and zoning in designated economic hubs—was challenged by the Lagos State Government for allegedly breaching the federal structure and state autonomy protected by the 1999 Constitution and the Land Use Act.
In a tightly argued mock trial that reflected remarkable grasp of constitutional law, law students took on the roles of counsel for both the Lagos State and Federal Government.
Citing provisions such as Sections 4(4), 4(7), 20, 44, 315, and 2(2) of the Constitution, the students articulated robust arguments that mirrored ongoing national debates around land use, residual powers, and federalism.
“Proud Beyond Measure” — Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN
Delivering a heartfelt vote of thanks, Chief Ogbole said:
“I am highly honoured and delighted to see that you have a workable moot court here at the University of Abuja. This is a faculty that is both highly celebrated and globally recognised. I do not take the privilege granted me today for granted.”
He commended the professional conduct, advocacy style, and constitutional depth demonstrated by the student participants, stating that:
“You can represent Nigeria in any part of the world from all that I have listened to today. This gives us even greater confidence in the generation of lawyers coming behind us.”
He specifically noted the quality of legal reasoning displayed in interpreting the Land Use Act and the constitutional limits of federal and state powers as debated in the case.
A Lasting Legacy of Mentorship
As part of the honour, a merit award was presented to Chief Ogbole for his long-standing commitment to legal education, youth mentorship, and academic excellence.
He also made a generous donation to the Moot Court facility at the Faculty of Law, further strengthening the resources available for legal training.
Certificates and awards were also given to participating students, alongside internship opportunities facilitated through the office of the learned Silk.
A Glimpse Into Nigeria’s Legal Future
With a well-reasoned moot trial rooted in current constitutional controversy, and a senior advocate’s personal involvement, the event was more than ceremonial—it was a live rehearsal for the future of Nigerian jurisprudence.
“When young minds meet great ideas and are guided by those who have walked the path,” Chief Ogbole said, “the future of justice is safe.”
The event not only honoured a respected jurist but reaffirmed the role of law faculties in nurturing a new breed of articulate, justice-conscious African lawyers.
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PHOTO CAPTION:
Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN, receives a merit award from LAWSAN leaders at the University of Abuja Moot Court Competition in his honour, July 6, 2025.
