Anambra Chief Registrar Accused Of Demanding Diesel For Bail Processing, Gives Reasons

Mba Nkem, the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court (FHC) in Awka, Anambra State, is facing accusations of demanding 20 to 30 liters of diesel from defendants as a condition for finalizing their bail. The allegations came to light after concerns were raised by several defendants and their legal representatives.

Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has reportedly addressed the issue directly with the said Registrar. In response, Nkem denied any personal benefit from the collection of diesel and explained the bail verification process. She clarified that court orders require sureties to deposit refundable bank drafts in her name, which are held in interest-yielding accounts at the United Bank for Africa (UBA) throughout the trial. “The bank drafts or bail bonds are not intended for personal gain,” Nkem emphasized.

Nkem also noted that due to her heavy workload, senior bailiffs were assigned to verify bail conditions and provide written reports. She attached affidavits of verification submitted by court sheriffs for review.

Addressing the diesel allegation, Nkem explained that the court had suffered from extended power outages, exacerbated by cable theft that left the facility without electricity for nine months. Insufficient quarterly revenue subventions failed to cover the court’s fuel requirements. As a result, lawyers began offering diesel contributions of 20 to 30 liters per case to expedite the bail process. However, Nkem clarified that those unable to contribute diesel, such as in pro-bono cases, were still assisted when fuel was available.

Nkem stressed that the diesel contributions were never monetized and were solely used to power the court’s generator. She also highlighted her commitment to transparency by maintaining an open-door policy and ensuring her secretary’s presence during meetings with legal counsel or litigants.

In conclusion, Nkem invited further investigation into the matter, attaching copies of relevant court orders and bank drafts for review, and stated, “If found wanting, I am open to correction.”