Chidi Odinkalu, the renowned human rights activist has weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the appointment of Augustine Oyarekhua Alegeh, SAN, as the Chairman of the Appointments Committee at the Body of Benchers.

However, Odinkalu’s remarks come cloaked in a parable, appearing to question not only the integrity of the organization’s leadership but also the processes involved in the appointments saga.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Odinkalu stated, “Honour & integrity are not bought or sold in the #OpenMarket nor are they attained by status or office. It seems quite clear from these exchanges that the Secretary of the body of Benchers knows a lot more about integrity than many chairmen of the #BodyOfBenchers put together.”

While Odinkalu did not directly praise the Secretary, Daniel M. Tela, his parable suggests that Tela has displayed more integrity than the chairmen of the Body of Benchers in the ongoing legal tussle over Alegeh’s appointment. The activist’s veiled criticism also appears to extend to the processes involved in the appointments controversy.

The remarks come amidst fierce legal battles, with the current Chairman, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, seeking to strike out a suit instituted by Alegeh challenging the termination of his appointment. Meanwhile, the immediate past Chairperson, Retired Justice Mary Ukaego Peter-Odili, has distanced herself from Alegeh’s appointment, while Tela has defended the decision, citing verbal directives from the former chair.

Odinkalu’s parable appears to question the integrity of the Body of Benchers’ chairmen in handling the appointment process and the organization’s adherence to principles of due process and transparency. The parable contrasts the actions of the Secretary, who has provided insights into the inner workings of the organization, with those of the chairmen, implying a lack of integrity and potential lapses in the processes involved.

The controversy has not only raised questions about the processes and protocols involved in appointing committee members but has also cast a spotlight on the organization’s leadership and its commitment to upholding the esteemed principles of the legal profession.

Odinkalu’s veiled criticism, expressed through his parable, has added another layer to the ongoing debate.

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