Say he is taking us back to Egypt
The Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) General Secretary, Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, has clarified that the decision to abolish complimentary stamps and seals for lawyers was implemented under the tenure of the former NBA President, YC Maikyau SAN, and not by the current administration led by Mazi Afam Osigwe SAN.
Speaking during a Zoom session titled “Firechat,” Dr. Ojibara addressed widespread concerns and misinformation among lawyers regarding the discontinuation of the complimentary stamps, which were introduced as a welfare initiative under Olumide Akpata’s leadership.
Dr. Ojibara emphasized that the policy to stop issuing free stamps and seals, which had been a value-added service for lawyers who paid their Bar Practicing Fees promptly, was discontinued during YC Maikyau’s presidency. The clarification came in response to criticisms accusing the Osigwe administration of initiating the change.
“It is important to set the record straight,” said Dr. Ojibara. “The abolition of complimentary stamps was not a decision of the current administration but of the previous one.”
The current administration has, however, raised the cost of four sheets of stamps and seals from ₦4,000 to ₦7,000, further fueling discontent among lawyers.
The clarification has done little to ease the dissatisfaction within the legal community. Many lawyers took to social media and forums to express their grievances about the policy and its broader implications:
Frustration Over Historical Benefits: Some lawyers argued that complimentary stamps were still provided during Maikyau’s tenure, contradicting the narrative. “But I got complimentary stamps during YC’s presidency,” one lawyer stated, questioning the accuracy of the timeline.
Criticism of Current Administration: Others pointed fingers at the Osigwe administration, accusing it of prioritizing revenue generation over lawyers’ welfare. “What have they done with the yearly practicing fees paid by lawyers?” asked another lawyer.
Impact of Increased Costs: Many lamented the financial burden caused by the price hike. One lawyer inquired, “What happens if ₦4,000 has already been paid before the announcement of no more free stamps, but I now need to pay ₦3,000 extra to make up ₦7,000?”
Unfulfilled Expectations: Delays in receiving stamps further compounded frustrations. “I haven’t received my 2024 seal to date,” one lawyer complained, highlighting inefficiencies in the distribution process.
The complimentary stamp initiative, introduced by Olumide Akpata, was widely regarded as a milestone in improving lawyers’ welfare. Under the program, stamps were provided as an incentive for prompt payment of Bar Practicing Fees.
Several lawyers voiced nostalgia for Akpata’s leadership. “I received free stamps from Akpata till now. This administration is taking us back to Egypt,” one remarked, criticizing the perceived regression in benefits.
The discontinuation of free stamps has exposed divisions within the NBA, with some lawyers blaming successive administrations for neglecting welfare initiatives. Others argue that the current leadership must take decisive steps to restore the program and rebuild trust.
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