Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development

08/01/2026

As part of its 2025 review, the Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development (FPILD) has highlighted one of its major pro bono legal interventions in support of indigent persons.

During the year under review, the Foundation provided free legal services that led to the release of Baba Idowu Fashola, who was wrongly accused of the offence of defilement. Following diligent legal representation and engagement with relevant authorities, the case was thoroughly reviewed, resulting in his freedom and the restoration of his dignity.

The Foundation described the case as a clear reflection of its commitment to justice, equity, and the protection of vulnerable members of society who often lack access to quality legal representation.

FPILD also expressed deep appreciation to Newspaper, platform, for spotlighting the case and amplifying the voices of the vulnerable.

31/12/2025

As we step into the new year, the Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development reaffirms its commitment to advancing justice, promoting equity, and driving sustainable development.

With collective resolve, we will continue to make meaningful progress toward building a more just and prosperous future for all.

05/08/2025

NAKLAS (NHQ) VISITS CORRECTIONAL CENTERS IN COLLABORATION WITH THE FOUNDATION FOR PUBLIC INTEREST LAW AND DEVELOPMENT

We are pleased to announce our partnership with the Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development to SPONSOR the upcoming "NAKLAS Visits Correctional Center Programme."

This outreach is scheduled to hold in the third week of August 2025 at both Okekura and Mandala Correctional Centers in Ilorin. The initiative focuses on supporting inmates detained over minor, bailable offences or those incarcerated due to an inability to pay fines. It also aims to advocate for *justice, fairness, and human dignity* within the Nigerian correctional system.

As Justice Niki Tobi famously stated in Josiah v. The State, _“Justice is a three-way traffic: justice for the State, justice for the victims, and justice for the accused”_—especially where the accused may be innocent, wrongly convicted, or unjustly sentenced.

This principle reflects the shared vision of both the Foundation and NAKLAS: to restore justice in its truest form, through collaborative and impactful action.

Anticipate the D-date

Thank you.

E-signed:
AbdulRauf AbdulBasit,
National President, NAKLAS (NHQ)
+2348090617514

Through:
Imam Abdulsamad Oladimeji,
Director of Media & Publicity, NAKLAS (NHQ)
+2349016691778

01/08/2025

Our Executive Director, Barr. Optimist-Yusuf Temilola Nurudeen Nurudeen Yusuf, honored an invitation extended to the Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development by the Lagos State House of Assembly to participate in a public hearing on the proposed bill for the establishment of the Lagos State Correctional Services.

The public hearing served as a vital platform for stakeholders to contribute to the development of a legal framework aimed at improving correctional facilities and rehabilitation programs within the state. Our participation reflects the Foundation’s commitment to promoting justice sector reforms, advocating for human rights, and supporting legislative processes that strengthen the rule of law.

Through this engagement, we reaffirm our dedication to working with policymakers, civil society, and relevant institutions to ensure that correctional services in Lagos State are aligned with national standards, human rights principles, and international best practices.

03/05/2025

Today, on World Press Freedom Day, we at the Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development join the global community in recognizing the vital role of the press in promoting justice, transparency, and accountability.

A free and independent press is essential for any society that values democracy and development. We stand with journalists and media workers everywhere and call for their protection, support, and freedom to work without fear.

We remain committed to defending press freedom and ensuring that the media can continue to serve the public interest.

30/03/2025

Eid Mubarak!

May Allah accept all our prayers, supplications, glorification and good deeds as an act of Ibadah.

Aamin!

23/03/2025

Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development FPIL&D CELEBRATES OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, Optimist-Yusuf Temilola Nurudeen BAR. NURUDEEN YUSUF OPTIMIST, ON HIS BIRTHDAY

Today, the Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development (FPIL&D) proudly celebrates an exceptional leader, legal luminary, and tireless advocate for justice, Bar. Nurudeen Yusuf Optimist, on the occasion of his birthday.

Bar. Yusuf Optimist has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public interest law, human rights, and social justice, using his legal expertise to champion the rights of the marginalized and promote policies that foster equality and good governance. Under his leadership, FPIL&D has been at the forefront of legal advocacy, policy reforms, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at empowering communities and ensuring justice for all.

His dedication to transparency, accountability, and legal empowerment has positively impacted numerous individuals and organizations, making him a beacon of hope for many. His passion for defending the rights of the vulnerable, holding institutions accountable, and advancing the rule of law has earned him the admiration and respect of colleagues, activists, and the wider society.

As he marks another year, we pray that Almighty Allah blesses him with good health, wisdom, and continued strength to sustain his noble mission. May he continue to inspire change, break barriers, and achieve even greater milestones in his pursuit of justice and development.

On behalf of the entire FPIL&D team, partners, and beneficiaries, we extend our heartfelt wishes for a joyous, fulfilling, and impactful year ahead. May his dreams continue to unfold, and may his contributions to humanity be richly rewarded.

Happy Birthday, Bar. Nurudeen Yusuf Optimist. We celebrate you today and always.

15/03/2025

FPIL&D Marks World Consumer Rights Day, Calls for Action Against Fake Products

The Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development (FPIL&D), a non-governmental organization committed to advocating for the rights of indigent citizens, proudly joins the global community in celebrating World Consumer Rights Day on March 15, 2025. This annual event serves as a crucial platform to educate consumers on their fundamental rights, which include:

The right to safety
The right to value for money
The right to seek redress
The right to product information
The right to a healthy life
The right to choose alternatives
The right to quality goods and services

This year’s observance is particularly significant for Nigeria, where the rising prevalence of counterfeit products poses a serious threat to public health and safety. Just weeks ago, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) seized and destroyed fake beverages and medications worth billions in Aba and Onitsha. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for consumers to be vigilant and report suspicious products to relevant authorities.

FPIL&D urges consumers to protect themselves by purchasing and consuming only certified goods approved by the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) and NAFDAC. Middlemen and retailers must also take responsibility by refusing to stock or sell substandard products, prioritizing public safety over profit. Countless lives are at risk due to the circulation of fake products, and decisive action is needed to stop this menace.

Furthermore, FPIL&D calls on government agencies responsible for regulating production, importation, and quality control to strictly enforce compliance with the law. Security agencies must also prosecute offenders to deter the continued distribution of counterfeit goods and set a precedent for accountability.

As we mark World Consumer Rights Day, FPIL&D reaffirms its commitment to consumer protection and urges all stakeholders consumers, businesses, and regulatory bodies to work together in ensuring a market free from dangerous and fraudulent products.

Together, we can build a safer, healthier society for all.

08/03/2025

Celebrating Women’s Strength and Impact on International Women’s Day

On this International Women’s Day, the Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development honors the resilience, courage, and contributions of women in shaping a just and equitable society.

Women play a vital role in advancing democracy, human rights, and social justice. Yet, many still face legal and societal barriers that limit their potential.

At FPIL&D, we remain committed to advocating for policies and legal reforms that protect women’s rights, promote gender equality, and create opportunities for empowerment.

Today, we celebrate every woman—those breaking barriers, leading change, and inspiring the next generation. Together, let’s continue to champion a society where every woman has the freedom and opportunity to thrive.

Happy International Women’s Day

&D

03/02/2025

Last Thursday, the 30th of January, 2025, our team at the Foundation for Public Interest Law and Development (The Pro Bono Centre) secured judgment in favour of our pro bono clients, Jimmy Badmus and Ifeanyi Nanim, before the High Court of Oyo State, sitting in Ibadan in Charge No.: I/146C/2021; between: The State V. Jimmy Badmus & Anor., before my Lord, Honourable Justice M. I. Sule

The Defendants were arrested in a raid by the disbanded Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSAR), Apata, Ibadan. They were arraigned by an amended charge dated 16th of November, 2023, on four (4) Counts of Conspiracy to commit armed and armed robbery contrary to Sections 6(b), 1(2)(a), and (b) of the Robbery and Fi****ms (Special Provisions) Act, Cap. R11, Vol. 14, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, LFN, 2004.

After the prosecution’s case and careful analysis of strategy, our team led by Yusuf Temilola NURUDEEN rests the case of the Defendants on the case of the prosecution. In well-considered judgment, the Court held inter alia that the Defence has properly utilised the tool of cross-examination to terminate the prosecution’s case by weakening and damaging the case, casting a reasonable doubt on the case of the prosecution to show the Court that even if the offence was committed, it was not the Defendants that committed the offence.

If the Defendants were found guilty, they would have been convicted and sentenced to death by handing in compliance with Section (3) of the act, which provides thus; “(3) The sentence of death imposed under this section may be executed by hanging the offender by the neck till he be dead or by causing such offender to suffer death by firing squad as the Governor may direct”.

hashtag
hashtag
hashtag

18/01/2025

On Friday, the 17th of January, 2025, our team of pro bono Lawyers and volunteers visited the Special Correctional Centre for Boys, Oregun, to interact with the ‘students’ to offer them legal representation.

During the visit, we listened to the stories of twenty-seven (27) cases of young people who conflicted with the law between the ages of 13 and 17. We were moved by some of their stories and sincerely believe they deserve a second shot at life. We will develop litigation strategies to ensure that these cases are resolved as soon as possible.

In the coming days, we will analyse these cases and assign them to our team of volunteer lawyers to provide pro bono legal services.

14/01/2025

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/fpildng_we-are-happy-to-announce-that-we-will-be-activity-7284897160528060416-uK1u?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

We are happy to announce that we will be implementing this project with Webfala Digital Skills for all Initiative Webfala is inviting youth from All 36 States…