The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN, has expressed deep concern over the recent conflicting orders emanating from the Federal High Court and the Kano State High Court regarding the stool of the Emir of Kano.
In a statement released on May 29, 2024, Maikyau strongly criticized the conduct of both counsel and judges involved in these cases, stating that their actions have brought “utter disgrace and shame to the profession.”
Maikyau emphasized that the subject matter of chieftaincy disputes is well-established in Nigerian jurisprudence, leaving no room for confusion or ambiguity. He found it unacceptable that the court processes were deployed in such a manner, exposing the entire legal profession in Nigeria to public ridicule and opprobrium.
The NBA President called for an urgent scrutiny of the professional conduct of the counsel and judges involved in these matters. He urged the respective heads of the courts to investigate any possible abuse of judicial office and file a report with the National Judicial Council for necessary action.
Additionally, the NBA will investigate the conduct of the counsel involved and may commence disciplinary action before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee if any professional misconduct is found.
Maikyau reiterated the NBA’s commitment to standing for and protecting the integrity, welfare, and independence of the Bar and the Judiciary. However, he emphasized that the NBA will not hesitate to call out any judge or counsel who engages in conduct that brings the legal profession into disrepute.
The NBA President stressed the importance of guarding the institution of the Judiciary jealously, as the existence, peace, growth, and development of any nation are intricately connected with the primary responsibility of the judiciary in dispensing justice. He called for the legal profession as a whole to resist any attempt to compromise its independence and to bring erring members to book to regain the respect necessary to lead Nigeria to its rightful place in the comity of nations.
Credit: The Nigeria Lawyer