The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for an urgent investigation into the professional conduct of both the counsels and judges involved in the ongoing Emirship dispute in Kano State.
This investigation aims to determine their potential culpability.
Advertorial
In a strongly worded statement, NBA President Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau criticized the handling of the case by the Federal High Court and the Kano State High Court.
Maikyau described the situation as an embarrassment to Nigeria’s legal profession, which has long been respected globally for its expertise.
“The actions of counsel and the courts in issuing conflicting orders have brought shame and disgrace to our profession,”
Advertorial
“This kind of behavior undermines the credibility of our legal system, which has historically been a pillar of strength not only in Africa but around the world.”
Maikyau noted that the issues at the heart of the Emirship dispute are clearly defined by existing laws and precedents, making the recent legal maneuvers particularly troubling.
He emphasized the need for immediate scrutiny of the professional conduct of all parties involved to maintain ethical standards within the legal profession.
“The heads of the courts involved should urgently review the actions of their judges and report any abuses of judicial office to the National Judicial Council for appropriate action. Simultaneously, the NBA will investigate the conduct of the counsels involved and, if necessary, pursue disciplinary action against them through the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee,” Maikyau declared.
The NBA President reiterated the importance of preserving the integrity and independence of the judiciary, warning against any actions that might compromise these values.
He emphasized that justice is fundamental to the existence and prosperity of any nation and quoted Sheikh Othman Dan Fodio: “A people can exist without religion but they cannot exist without justice.”
Maikyau urged all members of the legal profession to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
“We must bring any erring members of our profession to book to restore the respect necessary for us to lead Nigeria to its rightful place in the global community,” he asserted.
