The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the allegations made by the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, Esq., who accused Nigerian lawyers of being central enablers of major financial frauds in the country. In a press release issued by the NBA’s Publicity Secretary, Bridget Edokwe, Esq., the association described the EFCC Chairman’s comments as inaccurate, unjustified, and damaging to the public’s confidence in the legal profession.

While acknowledging that no profession is immune to ethical breaches, the NBA emphasized that the sweeping generalization of Nigerian lawyers as primary facilitators of financial crimes is unwarranted. The association highlighted the existence of a robust disciplinary mechanism within the legal profession, overseen by the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC), which consistently investigates and prosecutes cases of misconduct against erring lawyers.

The NBA called upon the EFCC Chairman to report any lawyer found complicit in financial crimes to the LPDC for appropriate disciplinary action, rather than making blanket accusations that tarnish the reputation of the entire legal profession. The association also pointed out that the EFCC itself is staffed with numerous dedicated and ethical lawyers, including its Chairman, who are at the forefront of combating financial crimes and securing justice for victims.

Furthermore, the NBA urged the EFCC Chairman to ensure that allegations against individuals, including legal practitioners, are supported by specific evidence and addressed through due process. The association emphasized that such blanket accusations only serve to erode trust and distract from the collaborative efforts needed to effectively tackle systemic corruption.

The NBA reaffirmed its commitment to systemic reforms that strengthen ethical values, standards, and accountability within the legal profession. The association remains dedicated to fostering integrity and professionalism among its members and pledged to continue collaborating with stakeholders to enhance justice delivery and uphold the rule of law.

In conclusion, the NBA called on public officials to use their respective platforms to foster constructive dialogue and propose actionable solutions, rather than making sweeping statements that misrepresent the efforts of a profession integral to Nigeria’s fight against corruption.

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