Law firm seeks NASS abolition of AGF consent requirement in debt judgment enforcement

Law Corridor, an Abuja-based law firm, has petitioned the National Assembly to eliminate the need for Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) consent when seeking to enforce debt judgments against government funds under Section 84 of the Sheriffs and Civil Process Act. Managing Partner Henry Kelechukwu Eniotu emphasized that judgment debtors should not face prolonged delays in receiving compensation.

While the Supreme Court's Central Bank of Nigeria vs Lidan Engineering Limited ruling clarified that the Central Bank's role as government banker does not exempt it from the consent requirement, the broader statute continues to cause delays. Eniotu argued that government entities possess existing judicial options like appeals and stay of execution applications, and executive officers should not have an additional means to obstruct judgment enforcement.

He advocated for clear procedures, fixed timelines, responsible budgeting, and judicial oversight. Eniotu also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enhance transparency in upcoming elections by improving voter records, electoral procedures, and public access to electoral data. He highlighted Sections 19 and 77 of the 2026 Electoral Act as key areas for improvement.

Eniotu called for greater transparency in voter registration figures, emphasizing the distinction between applications, completed registrations, and final eligible voter counts. He also pushed for the decriminalization of attempted suicide and increased investment in mental healthcare, particularly for postpartum psychosis, and acknowledged Professor Olanrewaju Aladeitan's admission as a partner at Law Corridor.