The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly opposed the recently signed Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) agreement between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, particularly provisions allowing UK lawyers to practice in the country.
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NBA President Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau condemned the deal in a fiery statement on Tuesday, calling it “ridiculous, unpatriotic and uninformed.” He lamented the Federal Government’s celebration of an agreement reminiscent of Nigeria’s “tragic colonial past.”
Maikyau denied claims that the NBA had prior knowledge or contributed input before the pact was sealed. He maintained his long-held stance opposing any bilateral legal services agreement during recent meetings with UK officials.
The NBA chief blasted the Nigerian government for undermining local lawyers and their dependents without consultation. He insisted the ETIP deal is “totally unacceptable” insofar as it relates to the legal profession.
Maikyau disclosed that senior lawyers have met to map out litigation strategies to challenge the legality of the trade agreement. “We intend to fully contest this pact all the way to the Supreme Court,” he warned.
The NBA leader called upon all lawyers nationwide to unite against “incursion into the legal space”, vowing not to allow it under his watch.
There are mounting concerns that enabling British lawyers to practice in Nigeria will lead to unfair competition given the skill and knowledge disparity between both countries.
Critics have also questioned why the Federal Government would erode opportunities for its own professionals while the UK seeks to expand prospects for British lawyers abroad.
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