IN response to recent allegations of professional misconduct involving members of the legal community, the Nigerian

Bar Association (NBA) has taken decisive measures to address the issue. In a statement released on Saturday, the NBA outlined its actions and commitment to maintaining the integrity of the legal profession.

The NBA has taken the decision to launch an investigation into allegations of sexual assault against Prof. Cyril Ndifon, the suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar. This move follows a resolution by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the NBA during its recent monthly meeting. Presided over by NBA President Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON SAN, the meeting was attended by all National Officers of the association. An ad-hoc committee, led by 1st Vice President Mrs. Linda Rose Bala, Assistant General Secretary Mr. Daniel Kip,

Chairperson of NBA Women’s Forum, and the Chairman of the NBA Calabar Branch, has been established to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations against Prof. Ndifon.

In another development, the NBA has addressed recent reports concerning the attempted bribery of Justice Flora Azinge of the National Assembly and State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal in Kano. The NBA, in its pursuit of transparency and accountability, has formally requested Justice Azinge to provide the association with further details regarding the allegations. This request, contained in a letter dated August 16, 2023, aims to facilitate a thorough investigation into the matter.

Moreover, the NBA’s commitment to upholding the highest professional standards within the legal community is further demonstrated by the actions taken against certain members for unbecoming conduct. Following deliberations at a previous monthly meeting, the National Officers of the NBA have lodged petitions with the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC). These petitions target individuals whose actions have raised concerns about their adherence to the ethical standards of the profession.

Among those facing petitions are Mr. Hudu Yunusa-Ari, the suspended Adamawa State Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and Ifunanya Excel Grant, a young lawyer from the Aba Branch known on social media as “the baddest lawyer.” Mr. Yunusa-Ari’s petition is rooted in allegations surrounding the declaration of the 2023 gubernatorial election result in Adamawa State, while Miss Ifunanya faces complaints related to her online behavior, including explicit content and videos, as well as engaging in substance use.

It is important to note that none of the lawyers currently under investigation have been deemed guilty of professional misconduct. The NBA President has emphasized the principle of innocence until proven guilty and has underscored the importance of exemplary conduct for all legal professionals. The NBA remains committed to maintaining the profession’s reputation and integrity by addressing any instances of misconduct.

In closing, the NBA expressed its dedication to upholding the values of the legal profession and ensuring that only the highest standards are upheld among its members. The association’s leadership has reiterated its unwavering commitment to removing any tarnish from the profession’s image. As investigations progress, the legal community and the public await the outcomes that will shape the future conduct of legal practitioners in Nigeria.

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