The Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) General Secretary, Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, has clarified that the decision to abolish complimentary stamps and seals for lawyers was implemented under the tenure of the former NBA President, YC Maikyau SAN, and not by the current administration led by Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN.

Speaking during a Zoom session titled “Firechat,” Dr. Ojibara addressed widespread concerns and misinformation among lawyers regarding the discontinuation of the complimentary stamps, which were introduced as a welfare initiative under Olumide Akpata’s leadership.

Dr. Ojibara emphasized that the policy to stop issuing free stamps and seals, which had been a value-added service for lawyers who paid their Bar Practicing Fees promptly, was discontinued during YC Maikyau’s presidency. The clarification came in response to criticisms accusing the Osigwe administration of initiating the change.

“It is important to set the record straight,” said Dr. Ojibara. “The abolition of complimentary stamps was not a decision of the current administration but of the previous one.”

The current administration has, however, raised the cost of four sheets of stamps and seals from ₦4,000 to ₦7,000, further fueling discontent among lawyers.

The clarification has done little to ease the dissatisfaction within the legal community. Many lawyers took to social media and forums to express their grievances about the policy and its broader implications:

  • Frustration Over Historical Benefits: Some lawyers argued that complimentary stamps were still provided during Maikyau’s tenure, contradicting the narrative. “But I got complimentary stamps during YC’s presidency,” one lawyer stated, questioning the accuracy of the timeline.
  • Criticism of Current Administration: Others pointed fingers at the Osigwe administration, accusing it of prioritizing revenue generation over lawyers’ welfare. “What have they done with the yearly practicing fees paid by lawyers?” asked another lawyer.
  • Impact of Increased Costs: Many lamented the financial burden caused by the price hike. One lawyer inquired, “What happens if ₦4,000 has already been paid before the announcement of no more free stamps, but I now need to pay ₦3,000 extra to make up ₦7,000?”
  • Unfulfilled Expectations: Delays in receiving stamps further compounded frustrations. “I haven’t received my 2024 seal to date,” one lawyer complained, highlighting inefficiencies in the distribution process.

The complimentary stamp initiative, introduced by Olumide Akpata, was widely regarded as a milestone in improving lawyers’ welfare. Under the program, stamps were provided as an incentive for prompt payment of Bar Practicing Fees.

Several lawyers voiced nostalgia for Akpata’s leadership. “I received free stamps from Akpata till now. This administration is taking us back to Egypt,” one remarked, criticizing the perceived regression in benefits.

The discontinuation of free stamps has exposed divisions within the NBA, with some lawyers blaming successive administrations for neglecting welfare initiatives. Others argue that the current leadership must take decisive steps to restore the program and rebuild trust.

Follow Our WhatsApp Channel _______________________________________________________________________

“Order Your Copy Now” — Basil Momodu, Esq. Unveils Second Edition Of His Book, "Civil Procedure In Nigeria"

According to the learned author, Basil Momodu Esq. "Law review is a continuum. We will continue to track changes in the law to enrich future editions." Recommended Booksellers: Lagos: 08033855230, Abuja: 08035991379, and others. _______________________________________________________________________

[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials

“Evidence Act: Complete Annotation” by renowned legal experts Sanni & Etti.

Available now for NGN 40,000 at ASC Publications, 10, Boyle Street, Onikan, Lagos. Beside High Court, TBS. Email publications@ayindesanni.com or WhatsApp +2347056667384. Purchase Link: https://paystack.com/buy/evidence-act-complete-annotation

______________________________________________________________________ “Bridging Theory And Courtroom Practice” — Hagler Sunny Okorie, Nathaniel Ngozi Ikeocha Unveil ‘Functional’ Tort Law Book For Nigerian Legal System The book, titled The Law of Torts in Nigeria: A Functional Approach, authored by Professor Hagler Sunny Okorie Ph.D and Ikeocha, Nathaniel Ngozi Esq, offers law students, practitioners, and academics a comprehensive guide to understanding and applying tort law in Nigerian courts. Interested buyers can place orders via the following contact numbers: 08028636615, 08037667945, 08032253813, or +234 902 196 2209. ______________________________________________________________________ “Enhance Legal Practice With Authoritative Reports” — Alexander Payne Offers Comprehensive Law Reports, Spanning Over A Century Of Nigerian Jurisprudence

Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via: 0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888 Website: www.alexandernigeria.com

_______________________________________________________________________ Groundbreaking Guide For Lawyers: Adigwe Publishes ‘Artificial Intelligence For Lawyers’ With Free Research eBook As an added bonus, every purchase comes with a FREE ebook titled: “AI in Legalpedia and Law Pavilion: A Research Guide.” Ohio Books Ltd praises the publication, stating: "....this is the only Nigerian book I know of on the topic." How to Order: 📞 Call, Text, or WhatsApp: 08034917063 | 07055285878 📧 Email: benadigwe1@gmail.com 🌎 Website: www.benadigwe.com Ebook Version: Access it directly online at https://selar.com/prv626