OML 40: GADZAMA DRAWS THE LINE, SAYS ALLEGATIONS ARE FALSE AND DEFAMATORY
By Emeka Amaefula
Prominent Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN, has firmly distanced himself from allegations linking him to an alleged mediation in the lifting of a court-ordered restriction on OML 40 corporate filings at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), describing the claims as false, malicious and deliberately defamatory.
The senior lawyer reacted to reports published by two online platforms, excluding City Lawyer, which insinuated that a “mediator linked” to him played a role in an alleged improper process surrounding the CAC and OML 40. In a detailed statement personally signed by him and made available to City Lawyer, Gadzama issued an unequivocal denial, insisting that he had no connection whatsoever with the matter.
“I have no business whatsoever, directly or indirectly, with the subject matter of these publications,” he stated. “I was not involved in any mediation, meeting, or transaction concerning the OML 40 corporate filings, the CAC Registrar-General, or any of the parties mentioned. The suggestion that a ‘mediator linked’ to me facilitated an improper act is a deliberate and wicked fabrication.”
Gadzama expressed deep displeasure over what he described as a reckless attempt to tarnish a reputation built over nearly four decades of legal practice marked by integrity, transparency and strict adherence to the rule of law. He faulted the reports for failing to name the alleged mediator or provide any evidence linking him to the purported actions, describing the insinuations as illogical and injurious.
Recalling his service to the legal profession, including his role as a former Chairman of the Body of Benchers Mentorship Committee, the senior advocate stressed that ethical conduct and respect for court orders are values he holds sacrosanct. He described as offensive any suggestion that he would be associated, directly or indirectly, with acts capable of undermining a subsisting court order or compromising the integrity of a public institution.
While dissociating himself completely from the controversy, Gadzama called on relevant anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate the allegations made against the CAC Registrar-General and ensure that due process is followed wherever wrongdoing is established in the public interest.
He further disclosed that he has issued cease-and-desist notices to the publishers involved, demanding immediate retractions and public apologies, while reserving the right to pursue legal action for aggravated defamation to protect his name and integrity. He advised members of the public to disregard any claims linking him to the OML 40 matter.
Amid the controversy, the law firm of J-K Gadzama LLP went ahead with its 26th End-of-Year Award and Appreciation Evening and 11th Christmas Carol, an event that underscored the firm’s long-standing tradition of blending professional excellence with cultural and festive celebration.
Held on Monday, December 15, 2025, the colourful ceremony attracted an array of leaders from the Bar and the Bench, as well as key justice sector stakeholders and public figures. The event was chaired by Prof. Jerry Gana and Mrs. Lucy Gana, with Chief Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN, and his wife, Mrs. Christine Gadzama, hosting.
The evening was enlivened by stirring carol renditions from the Abuja City Choir, while the main speaker, Apostle Selman, delivered a message that added spiritual depth to the celebration. The presence of distinguished guests, including former governors Boni Haruna and Bala James Ngilari, former Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Ibrahim Auta, OFR, former Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, and other notable legal, political and diplomatic figures, added colour and prestige to the occasion.
The well-attended gathering served as both a festive close to the legal year and a reaffirmation of J-K Gadzama LLP’s standing as a leading law firm with enduring influence across Nigeria’s legal and public life.
—-Emeka Amaefula ——+234(0)8111813069—-
