*Says Technology Rapidly Replacing Legal Analysis, Lawyers No Longer “Gatekeepers Of Knowledge”
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NBBSPIDEL.png")
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Summer-IDRI-Masterclass.jpg")
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has expressed deep concern over the state of Nigeria’s judiciary, describing it as being weighed down by corruption, ethical lapses, and diminished integrity.
Speaking at the 2025 Law Week Plenary Session of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, held at the Nigerian Content Tower in Swali, Bayelsa State, Osinbajo warned that public perception of widespread corruption within the justice system — implicating both legal practitioners and judicial officers — poses a serious threat to the credibility of the legal profession.
“The legal profession is collapsing under the strain of corruption and ethical failure. There are numerous reports of legal practitioners acting as intermediaries for bribes to judges. This perception alone does tremendous harm,” he said during the session themed ‘Setting The Pace: Law, Leadership and Transformational Development’.
Delivering his address on a sub-theme titled ‘The Legal Profession: A Vision for a New Era’, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria emphasized that the profession stands at a crossroads, challenged by disruptive technologies and evolving global trends.
According to Osinbajo, the rapid advancement of technology, increasing globalization, and widespread access to information are reshaping the professional landscape — and the legal industry cannot afford to be left behind.
“We are in an era where traditional legal practices are being replaced by AI and digital platforms. Many of the tasks lawyers previously performed are now handled more efficiently and cost-effectively by machines. These systems don’t rest, don’t go on vacation, and don’t demand overtime,” he noted.
He warned that as legal technology becomes more accessible and affordable, legal professionals risk becoming obsolete unless they evolve.
“Basic legal research and analysis, once the bread and butter of law firms, are increasingly handled by AI. The shift is massive — and irreversible.”
Osinbajo further noted that the global availability of legal expertise has flattened the playing field, allowing real-time access to legal resources and consultation across borders.
“The reality is, we are no longer the sole custodians of legal knowledge or reasoning. The profession must reinvent itself with new tools and fresh perspectives.”
To prepare future lawyers for this changing landscape, he advocated for the inclusion of legal tech and artificial intelligence in law school curricula, emphasizing the need for students to learn how to critically evaluate outputs from platforms like ChatGPT and other emerging technologies.
Opening the plenary session, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, expressed apprehension about the impact of artificial intelligence on employment, noting that while innovation is inevitable, it must be approached with caution and responsibility.
He assured that his administration would continue to uphold the rule of law and protect the judiciary’s independence.
“As a government, we will always operate within the bounds of justice, ensuring impartiality and fairness. The survival of this country depends on your commitment to truth and justice. The legal profession remains the last hope of the common man — and without your integrity, I would not be standing here as Governor today,” Diri said.
The book also examines Nigeria's legal ecosystem, focusing on the LPELR and NBA AI Guidelines. As a bonus, every purchase comes with a FREE eBook titled: How to Use the AI Features in LegalPedia and LawPavilion.
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
Authored by Ben Ijeoma Adigwe Esq., ACIarb (UK), LL.M, Dip. in Artificial Intelligence, Director at the Delta State Ministry of Justice, Asaba, Nigeria.
______________________________________________________________________
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
