NBA Investigates 20 Petitions Against Lawyers Over Alleged Misconduct
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has confirmed receiving no fewer than 20 petitions against lawyers in the country, spanning the period from November 2023 to November 2024. The allegations, ranging from professional misconduct to abuse of court processes, have raised concerns about the ethical practices of some members of the legal profession.
Among the cases under scrutiny are those involving lawyers linked to the controversial Kano State Emirate tussle. The dispute stemmed from Governor Abba Yusuf’s deposition of Emir Ado Bayero and the subsequent reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi. In a contentious ruling on May 24, 2024, Justice Abdullahi Liman of the Federal High Court in Kano nullified the governor’s actions and restrained him from enforcing the Kano State Emirate Council Repeal Law, 2019.
However, legal experts argue that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction in chieftaincy matters, which fall within the purview of state high courts. The NBA has criticised the lawyers involved for filing applications in a court that, by law, could not adjudicate on the matter.
Speaking to journalists, NBA Publicity Secretary Bridget Edokwe disclosed that many of the implicated lawyers are currently being investigated by the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC).
“Twenty petitions were received in the past year. Many of these cases are either before the LPDC or the petitioners have been referred there,” Edokwe stated.
– Filing suits in courts lacking jurisdiction.
– Conduct unbecoming of legal practitioners.
– Involvement in conflicting court orders, such as the Federal High Court order of May 23, 2024, and the Kano State High Court order of May 28, 2024.
“These acts amount to infamous conduct and potential abuse of court processes, which undermine the integrity of the profession,” she added.
While the NBA has acknowledged the petitions and ongoing investigations, it has not disclosed the specific punishments or sanctions for those found guilty of misconduct. The LPDC, as the disciplinary arm of the legal profession, will determine the appropriate actions against erring members.
