Wike lauds quality of adjudication at appellate courts
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, a Life Bencher, has commended the quality of adjudication at the nation’s appellate courts. He said his experiences as
- Ukala presents practice manual
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, a Life Bencher, has commended the quality of adjudication at the nation’s appellate courts.
He said his experiences as a litigant in several high-profile cases have strengthened his appreciation of appellate advocacy and judicial reasoning.
The minister spoke at the presentation of “Ukala’s Manual on Appellate Practice” authored by Emmanuel C. Ukala (SAN), in Abuja on April 29.
Wike highlighted the demands of appellate advocacy, describing it as an area of legal practice that requires discipline, precision and intellectual depth.
The event attracted senior judicial officers, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justices of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, members of the Body of Benchers, and Senior Advocates of Nigeria.
Wike said his appearances before appellate courts over the years had given him firsthand insight into the importance of rigorous legal argument and sound judicial interpretation.
“I am a direct beneficiary of the work done at the appellate level, having had the privilege, as a party in numerous disputes, to prosecute and defend cases before appellate courts.
“These experiences have deepened my appreciation of the discipline, rigour, and institutional value of appellate adjudication,” he said.
He noted that the legal profession demands continuous learning, clarity of thought and a strong command of both substantive and procedural law, especially at the appellate level.
According to him, advocacy before appellate courts differs significantly from trial litigation because it places greater emphasis on structured reasoning, precision and legal interpretation.
Wike described the book as a practical resource designed to support lawyers in navigating the complexities of appellate practice, adding that it would be relevant to both younger practitioners and experienced counsel.
“This is not the kind of book that will sit quietly on a shelf. It will be consulted often, especially in moments when a lawyer must get it right,” he said.
He encouraged legal practitioners to engage with the book beyond its ceremonial presentation.
“Do not just celebrate this book; use it. Let it challenge and refine you. Excellence in this profession is a deliberate pursuit,” he added.
The FCT minister also spoke about his longstanding relationship with the author, noting that he began his legal career at Ukala’s law firm, where he acquired values and professional lessons that have continued to influence his career in law and public service.
