CITIZENS COMPASS —Lagos State Government has responded to a statement by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) regarding the judgment delivered by the Supreme Court of Nigeria in Abuja which upheld the later as the authentic regulatory authority of the inland waterways.
Recall that the Supreme Court delivered the judgment on Friday, January 5, 2024, in a suit NIWA & 3ORS V LASG & 5ORS SC/17/2018.
Lawal Pedro SAN, Hon.Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice, in a statement signed on behalf of the State Government, on Friday, January 5, 2024, said, “The attention of the Lagos State Government has been drawn to a report by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) regarding the judgment delivered today, January 5, 2024, in NIWA & 3ORS V LASG & 5ORS SC/17/2018.
“It is important to note that the judgment was not read in open court, and parties involved are awaiting the Certified True Copy for a comprehensive understanding of the Judgement. In response to NIWA’s communication, we would like to emphasize the need for the public to remain calm and patient during this period.
“Our legal team is actively working to obtain the Certified True Copy, and a detailed statement will be issued once we have thoroughly studied the judgment. We therefore also urge the waterways users and stakeholders to refrain from drawing premature conclusions and allow the Lagos State Government the necessary time to analyze the implications of the judgment.
“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.”
