Future Lawyers in Action as Nigerian University Students Stage Intense Armed Robbery Mock Trial

• Baze University law students staged a simulated armed robbery trial on Thursday, August 7, as part of their Clinical and Moot Court Practice training
• The mock trial, presided over by two legal professionals, saw students assume roles as prosecutors, defence lawyers, witnesses, and court officials
• The university said the exercise demonstrated its commitment to hands-on legal education and preparing students for professional practice

Abuja, FCT - Law students at Baze University, a private varsity, put their legal training to the test on Thursday, August 7, during a simulated armed robbery trial, part of the institution’s focus on practical legal education.

The mock trial, staged at the Faculty of Law’s Moot Courtroom, involved 400-level students from the Clinical and Moot Court Practice course.

A statement made available to Legit.ng indicates that three student teams acted as the prosecution, defence counsel for the first defendant, and defence counsel for the second and third defendants.

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It was gathered that the students took on the roles of prosecutors, defence lawyers, witnesses and court officials, delivering opening statements, examining witnesses, and making closing arguments in a format designed to mirror real court proceedings.

Mock trial: Legal practitioners preside over proceedings

Legit.ng gathers that two guest legal professionals presided over the proceedings, Babayemi Olaniyan of Lehi Attorneys and Baze University alumnus Adamu Abbas Ahman. The course instructor, Dayo Ashonibare, oversaw the trial, ensuring that procedures were followed and providing feedback.

Olaniyan praised the students’ performance, citing their confidence, professionalism and grasp of legal concepts.

He said:

“I was impressed by their confidence, professionalism, and mastery of legal concepts. This was not just an academic exercise, it was a powerful demonstration of how well-prepared these students are for legal practice.” He described the event as “one of the academic highlights of the semester.”

In his remarks, Ashonibare said the exercise reflected months of legal research and teamwork, describing it as essential in narrowing the gap between classroom learning and courtroom application.

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Baze University speaks on mock trial

The varsity's Faculty of Law said the mock trial is part of its commitment to “hands-on experience in the complexities of criminal litigation.

“What we saw here today is the result of months of legal research, strategic thinking, and team collaboration. It’s exactly the kind of practical exposure that bridges the gap between the classroom and the courtroom.

“This immersive mock trial reaffirms the Faculty’s dedication to bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in legal education,” the Faculty’s statement concluded.

According to Baze University, the successful event reinforced its position as a leading institution in legal education in Nigeria.

Dino Melaye appears in court after Baze University graduation

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, made his courtroom debut recently, marking his first official appearance as a practising lawyer.

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Clad in a full wig and gown, Melaye appeared before Justice Emeka Nwite at Court 8 of the Federal High Court in Abuja. Melaye’s appearance follows his successful completion of a law degree at Baze University and his call to the Nigerian Bar in early July, alongside over 5,000 new lawyers.

Known more for his outspoken political career and flamboyant lifestyle, Melaye’s transition into the legal profession has surprised many Nigerians. He previously represented Kogi West in the Senate during the 8th National Assembly and was a member of the House of Representatives before that.

Source: Legit.ng