The Tribunal: written by Tunde Babalola though a 2020 movie might seem old, but not stale and very educational.
The Tribunal featured Jimi Disu, an intelligent Lawyer who once practiced in a reputable firm, had because of some arrows of life which struck him, lost his sense of directions in life as he was found chasing black marias that conveyed Prisoners who were standing trials in Court and also naming himself a "Charge and bail Lawyer".
The movie gets more interesting as Jimi Disu's new life is being distracted by a young enthusiastic Lawyer, Tanimowo, who had just graduated from Law School. One thing I admire about Tanimowo is that she possessed an eagle eyes as she never relegated nor staggered on her belief about the better and positive sides of Jimi Disu, even when she was being pushed away severally by the said Jimi Disu who saw himself as an ordinary charge and bail lawyer for her to attach with or bring an Industrial Brief to.
Tanimowo used her eagle eyes to look beyond the physical appearances and wealthy status of Jimi Disu and talked him into handling a Labour Law/Industrial matter for her albino friend Mr. Ifeanyi Imo who had been unfairly relieved of his duties as a banker with the Western Bank due to discrimination and stigmatization because of his skin color as an albino and therefore sought justice.
The Court Sitting
I really enjoyed this part where the hearing was taking place and the series of drama that unfolded amongst both parties and their respective Lawyers as time flew.
Cross-examination
I sat up while watching this very part, because, with my little experience with the Nigerian Legal System, I knew this was a crucial stage which may likely make or Mar any criminal or civil case. A lot of drama also unfolded in the Courtroom between parties, Counsel and Judge. There were times the case was stood down for certain reasons and also adjourned.
At one point, I was scared and thought Jimi Disu and Tanimowo would lose the case to their mocking opponents, coupled with the fact that he, Jimi Disu, got intoxicated with alcohol at some instances during the pendency of the case.
Tanimowo would never give up but would follow up Jimi Disu, because she saw potential in him, like a daughter would follow up her loving father.
I also love the fact that Tanimowo took the bull by the horn and worked very hard in assisting her Principal, Jimi Disu, in the case by burning the night in search of an uncircumstantial evidence to strengthen their case.
I enjoyed the scene before the verdict!
It is said that who laughs last laughs best. Jimi Disu was given his surprise package (a vital exhibit) by his supportive associate, Tanimowo, on the morning of an adjourned date for cross-examination. Jimi Disu was grateful. After the Defence had closed their case, the Claimants opened theirs, and boom! He hit the Defence so hard that they fell flat.
Wow! The Courtroom is one of the most interesting scenes I actually enjoyed. Also, the one thing I love at the end of the movie was that Jimi Disu got his life back after proving to his opponents, who happened to be his former colleagues at his previous renowned reputable Law firm, that he was actually still a very bright Lawyer and that nothing could change that.
I guess most of you must have enjoyed the movie also. If you have not watched it please try and do, it is very educational.
Images are screenshots from the movie.
