The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticized the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, for alleging that lawyers are complicit in money laundering and terrorism financing in Nigeria.
Speaking in Abuja during the unveiling of the 2025 NBA Annual General Conference Logo and Theme—“Stand Out, Stand Tall”—NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, labeled the allegations as sweeping and baseless, cautioning against such accusations without evidence.
EFCC Chairman’s Allegations
Olukoyede, at the 6th Annual Criminal Law Review Conference, alleged that lawyers play a critical role in facilitating major financial fraud, citing examples such as:
- P&ID Scam
- Mambilla Power Project
- Sunrise Issue
He further criticized what he termed “obscene legal fees” received by senior lawyers from political officeholders, urging stricter adherence to financial regulations.
NBA’s Response
Osigwe refuted the claims, emphasizing the professionalism and integrity of the legal community.
“In the absence of evidence, such statements should never be made,” Osigwe said.
While acknowledging the presence of a few “bad eggs,” Osigwe maintained that they do not reflect the majority of lawyers, who uphold ethical standards. He urged the EFCC chairman to exercise caution, warning of potential legal action should such baseless accusations persist.
NBA’s Call for Accountability
Osigwe encouraged the public and journalists with evidence of lawyer misconduct to report such cases to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) for appropriate action.
“We must draw the line in performing our professional duties and aiding the commission of crime. The EFCC chairman must not soil our image by generalizing unfounded accusations,” he warned.
2025 NBA Annual General Conference Theme
The unveiling event also highlighted the 2025 NBA Annual General Conference Theme—“Stand Out, Stand Tall”—as a rallying cry for legal professionals to uphold justice with integrity and professionalism.
Dr. Emeka Obegolu, SAN, chairman of the conference planning committee, emphasized the theme’s significance:
“It challenges us to embrace excellence and innovation while remaining steadfast in our values and commitments to justice.”
16-Day Activism Against SGBV
In addition to the conference activities, the NBA launched a 16-day campaign against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). The initiative includes prison and detention center visits to secure the release of eligible detainees.
This dual focus on accountability and social justice underscores the NBA’s commitment to promoting integrity and equity across Nigeria’s legal landscape.
