The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ibadan Branch has launched an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment and exploitation raised against Mr. Babatunde Lawal Esq., the Principal Partner of Harlem Solicitors.
The Executive Committee of the NBA Ibadan Branch released an official statement on August 15, 2023, addressing the matter.
The allegations were brought to public attention through a tweet on August 10, which referred to an infamous Ibadan law firm using social media branding to hide its alleged misconduct. This tweet prompted numerous responses from legal professionals familiar with the situation, indicating Harlem Solicitors as the subject of the allegations.
Recognizing the gravity of these accusations, the Executive Committee of the NBA Ibadan Branch is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring a fair and just legal community. In accordance with Section 9 (6) of the Nigerian Bar Association Uniform Bye-Laws for Branches, 2015 (As Amended), the committee intends to verify the facts and take appropriate actions.
The Executive Committee extends a call to young lawyers who are victims or complainants in the allegations against Mr. Babatunde Lawal to submit their formal complaints.
Complaints can be lodged with the Branch’s Secretary or via email at nigerianbarassociationibadan@gmail.com by 4 pm on Thursday, August 17, 2023. This timeline is set to facilitate a comprehensive review of the allegations and ensure compliance with due process.
The NBA Ibadan Branch is dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive environment within the legal profession and is committed to maintaining the integrity of the legal community. Further updates regarding the investigation will be communicated as developments unfold.
On August 14, 2023, the Foundation for Investigative Journalism reported a news titled “Young Lawyers Accuse Harlem Solicitors’ Principal Partner of Sexual Harassment and Exploitation,” as follows:
Introduction: A tweet that had initially aimed to shed light on a notorious Ibadan law firm’s deceptive online facade has unearthed a disturbing underbelly of exploitation and sexual harassment. Harlem Solicitors and its principal partner, Babatunde Lawal, commonly known as “Big Law,” have been implicated in a series of allegations, the details of which were meticulously unearthed by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).
Tweet’s Unforeseen Consequences: At approximately 6:34 pm on August 10, a lawyer named Oladapo sent out a tweet, unknowingly setting in motion a chain of revelations. Oladapo’s tweet, which cryptically alluded to a certain Ibadan law firm, masterfully manipulating its robust social media presence to obscure its disturbing reputation, unexpectedly triggered an array of responses from fellow legal practitioners who recognized the firm in question.
Shared Knowledge Amidst Secrecy: The comments beneath Oladapo’s tweet reflected a mix of familiarity, inside jokes, and shared experiences of trauma. Though many acknowledged the existence of the notorious firm, they were hesitant to publicly name it, revealing an environment marked by fear and a collective bonding over shared adversities.
Unmasking Harlem Solicitors: In defiance of the prevailing secrecy, a few individuals boldly identified Harlem Solicitors as the firm under scrutiny. This opened the door to a more transparent dialogue about the allegations.
Exploring Deeper Allegations: The allegations against Harlem Solicitors extended beyond a culture of demanding excessive commitment from interns. Several individuals accused the principal partner, Babatunde Lawal, of sexual harassment, unjust dismissal of interns, reneging on payment commitments, withholding certificates, and subjecting interns to insults over minor errors and unattainable expectations.
Voices of Survivors: Joan Edegbai, a survivor, courageously shared her ordeal, recounting instances of Mr. Big Law’s unwarranted advances and inappropriate staring, even going as far as inquiring about the color of her attire. She detailed her experience of leaving the firm without the expected intern stipend, highlighting the sense of violation she felt.
Unwanted Advances and Retaliation: Adeola*, another survivor, revealed that she was terminated from Harlem Solicitors a day prior to the conclusion of her internship. Adeola accused Big Law of persistent advances and attempted inappropriate touching. Her refusal of an invitation to a hotel resulted in her termination. This case underscores the alarming intersection of sexual harassment and professional retaliation.
Harlem Solicitors’ Response: FIJ reached out to Big Law for his response to the allegations. In his initial communication, he acknowledged being aware of the circulating allegations and promised a formal statement to counter claims lacking credible evidence. He suggested that those behind the allegations provide substantiated proof through an official petition.
Conclusion: FIJ’s investigation has brought the alleged misconduct at Harlem Solicitors to the forefront. As survivors bravely share their stories, the legal community and society at large grapple with issues of accountability and safeguarding vulnerable individuals within professional environments. The allegations emphasize the urgent need for safe, inclusive spaces within the legal field. With further developments anticipated, the legal community and the public await updates on this unfolding matter.
In this article