By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has raised serious concerns about the growing misconduct in Nigeria’s legal profession, urging the need for swift corrective actions.
Speaking at the inaugural lecture of the Body of Benchers (BOB) and the presentation of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) report in Abuja, Fashola highlighted that ethical violations among lawyers are becoming more prevalent.
Fashola pointed out that the legal profession must address these issues, particularly noting the influence of television lawyers and the rise of unethical behavior in the courtroom.
He asked, “When is the LPDC going to set and enforce new rules for television lawyers?”
He went on to emphasize that the integrity of the legal system depends on upholding strict ethical standards, saying, “The Body of Benchers must lead a crusade to remove unsuitable persons before they bring down the House.”
Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, echoed these sentiments, expressing alarm over the decline in adherence to professional ethics. She noted that the profession’s credibility is under threat and that it is essential for legal practitioners to recommit to ethical conduct.
The CJN emphasized, “The responsibility of upholding the legal profession’s sanctity rests heavily on the Body of Benchers, and I am confident that they will continue to rise to the occasion.”
She also emphasized the critical role of the LPDC in ensuring fairness and transparency in addressing professional misconduct.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who attended the event, reminded the judiciary not to be swayed by external pressures and public opinion.
He urged judges to remain firm in their commitment to justice, asserting, “You are not just interpreters of the law; you are custodians of justice.”
He further emphasized that the nation’s democracy depends on a judiciary that is free from mob influence and vested interests.
Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), Chairman of the BOB, took the opportunity to discuss the evolving challenges faced by the legal profession in Nigeria, noting that the standards of legal education may need re-evaluation.
He suggested that reconsidering the minimum qualifications for lawyers could help address concerns over the declining quality of legal professionals.
Attorney-General of the Federation, represented by Beatrice Jedy-Agba, reinforced the importance of maintaining high ethical standards within the legal profession, highlighting the critical role of lawyers in serving society and safeguarding justice.
She said, “The very essence of the profession is to uphold the rule of law, ensure justice, and safeguard fairness to society.”
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aitedatiwa shared his personal experience of how the rule of law protected him from political manipulation, reinforcing his commitment to strengthening the judiciary’s role in Nigeria.
He said, “Without the rule of law, I may not have been governor today.”
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