CHRISTIAN LAW STUDENT FELLOWSHIP OF NIGERIA (CLASFON)
Brief History of Clasfon
CLASFON had earlier began with 11 Christian Law Students at the Law School in 1979. CLASFON at the Students level officially began in 1991 and is currently in her 32nd anniversary. The CLASFON National Students Annual Conference which began in 1992 has successfully held 30 editions with the 31st edition to be held at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife from the 6-10th of September this year (2023).
Christian Students in accredited Law faculties of Nigerian Universities are considered Associate members of the fellowship. For purpose of administrative efficiency among the students, a BYE LAW has been produced to guide the operations of the students arm of the Fellowship. This Bye law is subject to the provisions of the Constitution of CLASFON.
The National Field Representative (NFR) oversees the Students Ministry of the Fellowship. He does this by collaborating with the National Executive Director (NED) under the supervision of the National Assistant Secretary (ANS) who is mandated by the AGM and CLASFON Constitution to interface with the students on behalf of NEC.
At present, there are about 60 chapters of CLASFON in Nigerian Universities and in all the 7 campuses of the Nigerian Law School.
Our Aims and Objectives
The aims and objectives of the fellowship shall be as contained in Section 4 of the CLASFON constitution as it applies to its capacity as a students’ fellowship viz:
- To protect and defend the name of the person of Jesus Christ through the Member’s words, lives, studies and scholarship as law students.
- To see our study of law as a mission with a firm commitment to speaking effectively about the Gospel and its impact on problems of law and society.
- To acquire training and capacity to practice law as a vocation and calling from God.
- To provide for exchange of information and experience relating to the practical problem of the Christian law students and the application of the principle of the Christian faith to current legal and social problem that affect members by:
- Publications in all form in furtherance of the fellowship’s aims and objectives
- Organising the fellowship’s meetings, National and Regional Conferences, seminars, lectures, workshops and other suitable activities that will promote the aims and objectives of the fellowship.
- To encourage prayers, visits, counselling and such other activities of the fellowship for all persons connected with the study of law.
- To pursue the path of truth, justice, honour and righteousness and integrity through evangelism and other spiritual activities among fellow students.
- To provide human and material resources for the attainment of excellence in legal studies through networking and mentorship by staff of the faculty of Laws and members of the parent body.
- To pursue the attainment of capacity for the achievement of the overall aims and objectives of the Fellowship at the parent body as spelt out in its Constitution.
- To collaborate with persons and organisations within and outside Nigeria in the pursuit of similar goals and objectives.
Our Aims and Objectives
Our vision is anchored on our aims and objectives, which, among other things, are:
- Projecting the image of Christ through the practice of the legal profession in a way that glorifies God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)
- Working as a mission with a firm commitment to speaking effectively about the gospel and its impact on problems of law and society. (Mathew 28:18-20)
- To practice our vocation as part of our calling from God. (1 Timothy 4:14–16)
- To support law students who are Christians. (Galatians 6:10)
- To provide spiritual, moral, and financial support for ex-convicts who have come into contact with the saving grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. (Gal.6:2, Hebrews 6:10, Prov.3:27)
- To encourage prayers for all persons concerned with the legal profession. (Ephesians 6:8, Col. 1:9, Isaiah 40:31)
- To diligently pursue the path of truth, justice, honor, and integrity in the legal profession and the larger society. (Isaiah 56:1-2, Prov. 22:29).
- To strive for the highest professional ethics in the practice of law. (Philippians 4:13, Matthew 5:48, Isaiah 41:10)
- To provide for the exchange of information and experience relating to the practical problems of the Christian lawyer and the application of the principles of the Christian faith to the current legal and social problems through; (a) Publication and (Habakkuk 2:2, Deut. 6:6-9) (b) Organizing fellowship meetings, national and regional conferences, lectures and other suitable activities. (Hebrews 10:25, Prov.27:17).
In CLASFON, we believe the law is a vital arena for witnessing and discipling. We are committed to the true Gospel of Jesus Christ, and our meetings and fellowships are meant to enhance our spiritual and professional actions as well as provide a forum for encouraging one another. It is better experienced than imagined.
Our Mission
CLASFON has been involved in a variety of mission projects that align with its goals and
objectives. The various directorates have been involved in many events with organizations of the government and NGOs. Activities such as.
- Distribution of relief materials and trauma counseling for the IDPs in Abuja with the collaboration of the National Emergency Agency (NEMA).
- Free distribution of Bible devotionals (in the secret place) in Nigerian prisons occurs annually.
- CLASFON has been organizing workshops and a symposium for church leaders across the country in order to raise awareness about legal issues affecting the church and Christians.
- CLASFON has been representing the church and Christian community in Nigeria in the defense and protection of religious liberty.
- CLASFON is involved in the pro bono defense of indigent accused persons, whether in prison or awaiting trial outside of prison.
- Prison visitation has become a regular part of CLASFON’s activities.
- The fellowship is deeply interested in the students’ work and has been effectively participating in the various activities of the students both at the local chapter and national level.
- The reintroduction of the quiz and annual moot court competition during the student conference
- The introduction of directorate breakup sessions during the students’ conference.
j. CLASFON branches are active in the law school fellowship activities near them as well as the university fellowship.
Our Core Values
To equip members spiritually and professionally to serve God and humanity in their respective legal professional capacities as judges, magistrates, advocates, solicitors, legislators, teachers, administrators, and law students.
Isaiah 50:4, “The Lord God hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary.”
Isaiah 56:1, “Thus saith the Lord, keep ye judgment, and do justice; for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed.”
Proverbs 22:29, “Seest thou a man diligent in his business?” He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.
Titus 2:11–12, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world;”
Galatians 2:20, Hebrews 12:1–2, Romans 12:1–2, and Romans 14:17–18
Statement of Faith
The above shall be one and the same as contained in Section 5 of the CLASFON constitution that is:
(i) We believe in one God, the maker of all things, eternally existing in the TRINITY of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
(ii) We believe the Bible in its entirety to be the inspired word of God and the holy infallible rule of faith and conduct.
(iii) We believe in the resurrection of the dead, the eternal happiness of the saved with God and the eternal damnation of the unsaved with Satan.
(iv) We believe in the personal salvation of everyone who acknowledges, confesses
and forsakes his sin and exercises faith (belief) in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the cleansing of sin through His blood.
(v) We believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit accompanied by the initial evidence or sign of speaking in other tongues as the spirit of God gives utterance as distinct from the new birth.
(vi) We believe in the Christian’s hope –the imminent personal and visible return of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Organogram
CLASFON Organogram and reporting channel for the students’ work and ministry. The organogram consists of the Regulatory and Advisory channel.
Where ‘S’ means Students, i.e. SAGM is Students Annual General Meeting; SSC is Students State Coordinators; SCE is Students Chapter Executives.
Regulatory
NGM
PIC
NEC
ANS
NFR
SAGM
SPIC
SNEC
SRCs
SSC
SCE
Advisory
BOT
Lawyers Secretariat
NED
National Patrons
RCs
Branches Closest
Chapter Administrative Board
SCE
Lucious Roy Ishaya is a Penultimate Student of the Faculty of Law, University of Jos.
A philanthropist and stellar businessman, he also served as a Senator of the Student Union Government of the University of Jos for one academic session.
A lover of God and people, He is passionate about the Lord and the Lord’s work and is a partner with the Holy Spirit at My Generation Will Serve God. A movement of people committed to doing the Lord's work and spreading the love of Jesus.
An excellent student and teacher, he is deeply involved in the works of Ministry and teaches the Word at the Incense Family, a Prayer Fellowship on a daily basis.
He currently serves as the National President of CLASFON Student’s body.
Dogan Yusuf Amos is a fourth-year law student at the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, passionate about leadership and dispute resolution.
Hailing from Adamawa State, Nigeria, he serves as the National Vice President of CLASFON and Director of Research 1 at the ADR Society.
He is dedicated to mentoring aspiring lawyers and advancing legal innovation.
Abigail Hadiza Sule is a Penultimate Law Student of the University of Jos.
An avid reader, writer and lover of music and politics. She loves Jesus and enjoys telling others about Him.
She served as a Senator of the Student Union Government of University of Jos for one academic session.
She is deeply interested in Women Advocacy and Human Rights and was a Millennium Campus fellow for the 2022 Cohort.
An SDG Ambassador and a Graduate of the Dataville Research Institute.
She currently serves as National General Secretary of CLASFON Student's body.
Gaius Sunday is an LLB finalist at the esteemed University of Maiduguri.
Hailing from Adamawa State, Nigeria, Gaius has demonstrated a strong commitment to his faith and leadership. He has twice served as the Prayer Secretary and now holds the esteemed position of President of the Christian Law Students’ Fellowship of Nigeria (CLASFON) at the University of Maiduguri chapter and the National Prayer Secretary.
Beyond his academic and leadership roles, Gaius is also a passionate writer, preacher of the gospel, and personal development coach, dedicated to empowering others in their spiritual and personal growth.
Godiya Nendirmwa Solomon is an an entrepreneur, student and leadership enthusiast
I am passionate about leadership, and she is currently serving as the national Financial Secretary of CLASFON, she is dedicated to service through Leadership.
Her commitment extends beyond leadership roles she is deeply passionate about Women, the girl Child and kingdom politics, she strives to create lasting impact for women, girls, and the world at large.
Oluwatomisin is a shrewd law student, a Christian, certified Virtual Assistant and a strong believer in women making a strong and positive impact in every way possible.
Whilst not being a law student, she engages in volunteering to hone advocacy skills and learn about the workforce after school
She has served in Clasfon since her first year in so many capacities.
Outside of school and volunteering, she is a brilliant writer, who and runs a blog and host a Podcast called "Survive and Thrive".
She loves to impact knowledge in them. To ensure this, she works as a part-time tutor with Elite Pen Academy.
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James Taiwo, Ogungbade is a penultimate Student from Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko. He hails from Oyo State, Southwest Region, Nigeria. He is a natural born leader with exceptional management Skills coupled with Multitasking skill.
James Ogungbade is the Southwest Regional Director of CLASFON NATIONAL.
As a result of his dedication, he became the President of CLASFON, AAUA, in 2024, after previously serving as the Prayer cord and the Technical Director in CLASFON.
James is the President of Atmosphere of the Holy Ghost, a vibrant prayer group on campus while also serving as a Senator representing Faculty of Law at the Student Union level.
James Ogungbade is also a Web 3 enthusiasts.
Nonyina Nyalas is final year law student of the faculty of law Taraba State University, Jalingo. She hails from Adamawa State, Nigeria
She is currently a National Senator representing the good people of Taraba State University constituency
She served as the General secretary TSU CLASFON chapter and got elected to serve for a second term as the General secretary TSU CLASFON chapter and currently the Northeast regional coordinator CLASFON
She is a lover of God, a music minister and dedicated to serving in the Lord's vineyard.
Orya Oryiman Emmanuel is a Bar Finalist from the distinguished Benue State University, hailing from Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. A passionate and natural leader with exceptional multitasking abilities, he served as the Senator Representing the Faculty of Law BSU chapter as the Chief Whip.
He has also held various leadership roles, including Evangelism and Drama Coordinator, as well as Assistant General Secretary of CLASFON. At the same time, he served as the National President of the Legal Ideas Forum International. Currently, he is the CLASFON President at BSU and the North-Central/North-West Regional Coordinator of CLASFON.
Beyond leadership, Emmanuel is a writer, instrumentalist, preacher, and mentor for young minds.
Kosisochukwu Joan Okoro is a penultimate student of the Faculty of Law, Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
She is enthusiastic about social media management, content creation & writing, influencing and capturing memories for the reliving of the moment.
As disciple of Christ, she is passionate about the work of the kingdom and has served in the vineyard in the capacities of Secretary and President of the junior board of lectors, St. Mary’s Catholic Church Isolo Lagos, Assistant General Secretary/Librarian, Public Relations Officer, and currently as President of CLASFON UNIZIK and the South-East Regional Coordinator of CLASFON.
Beyond leadership, Kosi is an orator, a host, a mentor, and an ardent supporter of the manifestation of the will of God
List Of Clasfon Chapters
- ABIA STATE UNIVERSITY – Ukaegbu Divine – 0814 471 9266
- ACHIEVERS UNIVERSITY – Nze-Ahamefule Ebubechi Modesty – 08145035996
- ADEKUNLE AJASIN UNIVERSITY – Ogungbade Taiwo James – 08122096152
- ALEX EKWUEME FEDERAL UNIVERSITY – Eluwa Crystal Chiemeka – 08083406812
- AFE BABALOLA UNIVERSITY
- AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY – Ekenobi ThankGod Chinonso – +234 706 794 2565
- AJAYI CROWTHER UNIVERSITY- Naomi Moyinoluwa Olatunji- 08105372098
- AMBROSE ALLI UNIVERSITY
- BAYERO UNIVERSITY, KANO
- BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY
- BINGHAM UNIVERSITY
- BOWEN UNIVERSITY
- CHUKWUEMEKA ODUMEGWU OJUKWU UNIVERSITY – Emefo Chinemelum Wisdom – 08069948077
- DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY
- EBONYI STATE UNIVERSITY – Ominyi Chioma Cynthia – 09037339754
- EDWIN CLARK UNIVERSITY
- EKITI STATE UNIVERSITY- Dodo Temilade – 08107156597
- ENUGU STATE UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – Bethel C. Bright – 08064408595
- FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, OYE-EKITI- Adebayo Pheobe, 08143103389
- GODFREY OKOYE UNIVERSITY
- GREGORY UNIVERSITY, UTURU – Ukpai Solomon Ezera – 08168081010
- IGBINEDION UNIVERSITY
- IMO STATE UNIVERSITY – Chibuzor Elvis Offor – 0814 054 8980
- KOGI STATE UNIVERSITY
- KWARA STATE UNIVERSITY
- LAGOS STATE UNIVERSITY- Adeyemi Christiana – 0912 432 5892
- LEAD CITY UNIVERSITY- ADELIYI VICTORIA-07081071529
- NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY
- NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY
- NIGER DELTA UNIVERSITY
- NILE UNIVERSITY
- OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY
- OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, OGUN
- OSUN STATE UNIVERSITY
- REDEEMERS UNIVERSITY. Alabi Tosin- 08145035996
- RENAISSANCE UNIVERSITY – Aguiyi Fortune O. – 09039255363
- RIVER STATE UNIVERSITY
- SALEM UNIVERSITY
- TANSIAN UNIVERSITY
- TARABA STATE UNIVERSITY, JALINGO – Ayomansarki Christabel Collins – +234 810 681 1586
- UNIVERSITY OF ABUJA – Briska Joseph J. – 08149933536
- UNIVERSITY OF BENIN
- UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR
- UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN
- UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN
- UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS- Okanigbe Toluwani 07045976607
- UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI
- UNIVERSITY OF PORT HARCOURT
- UNIVERSITY OF UYO
- NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY – Okoro Kosiso Joan – 08139024982
- UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, NSUKKA – Egbo Miracle Chuks – 08089077218
- FEDERAL UNIVERSITY WUKARI, TARABA STATE- Egbuna Victoria Chiwendu 07040589005