Solape Adesuyi and Associate

We are delighted to announce that we had two interns in the month of September.

Among other tasks, they wrote legal articles on family law, intellectual property, commercial law and human rights. They also had mentorship sessions on the practice of law.

We are assured that their experience during the internship has played a major role in their professional growth.

The legal maxim for this week is "QUI FACIT PER ALIUM FACIT PER SE". This means that "He who acts through another acts by himself"

According to this maxim, if you employ an agent to carry out a set of tasks, the acts carried out will be seen as being done by the principal himself. Therefore, the benefits or consequences of such acts will be borne by the principal.

This principle also applies in the law of employment as the employer will be vicariously liable for the acts of the employee.

Unlike what is popularly done by Nigerians, a tenant is expected to pay rent despite being served a notice to quit.

Mesne Profit is different from Arrears of Rent. Mesne profit is the money calculated after a tenant’s rent has expired but still in possession, arrears of rent is the debt owed by a tenant.

The rent is called a "mesne profit". According to Tobi JSC in Odutola v. Papersack Nigeria Ltd, “mesne profit” is used to describe the sum due to a landlord from the time his tenant ceases to hold the premises as a tenant to the time such tenant gives up possession. In other words, it means intermediate profits, that is, profits accruing between two points of time; between the date when the tenant ceases to hold the premises as a tenant and the date he gives up possession.

An action for mesne profits does not lie unless either the landlord has recovered possession or the tenant’s interest in the land has come to an end or his claim joined with possession.

What are your thoughts on this legal fact?

With the Mandate of promoting good governance as a catalyst for business-friendly environment, The Association of Company Secretary and Legal Advisers operates with a pivotal mandate focused on advancing good governance as a powerful catalyst for fostering a business-friendly environment. Central to their mission is the recognition that sound corporate governance practices are integral to the success and sustainability of businesses. By emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct, transparency, and accountability, this association seeks to create a framework that not only ensures legal compliance but also enhances the overall efficiency and reputation of businesses.

Through comprehensive advocacy and educational initiatives, the association aims to empower company secretaries and legal advisers with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate complex regulatory landscapes. They play a crucial role in shaping policies that promote fairness, integrity, and responsible decision-making within organizations. Moreover, by championing the adoption of best practices in corporate governance, the association contributes to the creation of an environment conducive to investment, innovation, and economic growth.

I was privileged to attend a hangout with members of the Association of Company Secretaries and Legal Advisers ACSLA last Thursday 21st December 2023.

A team of distinguished Company Secretaries in the manufacturing sector.

I had fun spending the evening with them as we discussed industry specific issues in a relaxed atmosphere.

Shout out to Abiola Laseinde, FCIS MCIArb for the invitation.