Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said his experiences as a litigant before appellate courts played a pivotal role in shaping his understanding of the legal system.
Wike made the remark on Wednesday in Abuja during the public presentation of “Ukala’s Manual on Appellate Practice,” authored by Emmanuel C. Ukala, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Garki.
The minister, a Life Bencher and former practising lawyer, said his involvement in multiple legal disputes at the appellate level exposed him to the depth and discipline required in higher court proceedings.
“I have benefitted immensely from proceedings at the appellate courts, having appeared in several matters as a party. These experiences strengthened my appreciation of the rigour and value of appellate adjudication,” he said.
He noted that appearing as a litigant, rather than as counsel, offered him a distinct perspective on judicial processes.
Wike described the legal profession as one that demands continuous learning, discipline and clarity of reasoning, particularly in appellate advocacy.
According to him, practice at appellate courts differs significantly from trial courts, requiring precision, structured argument and a sound grasp of both substantive and procedural law.
He commended the manual, describing it as a practical resource for legal practitioners, both young and experienced.
“This is a book that practitioners will continually consult, especially when accuracy is critical,” he said.
Wike also revealed that he began his legal career at Ukala’s law firm, noting that the experience provided him with foundational values that have influenced his professional and public life.
He praised the book for its comprehensive coverage of appellate procedures, including notices and grounds of appeal, compilation of records, interlocutory applications, and both written and oral advocacy.
The minister urged young lawyers to make effective use of the material, stressing the need for dedication to excellence in the profession.
“Do not only celebrate this work; study and apply it. Professional excellence requires deliberate effort,” he added.
The event attracted key figures in the judiciary, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the President of the Court of Appeal, justices of appellate courts, members of the Body of Benchers and Senior Advocates of Nigeria.
