From a young age, the passion for law burned within me. Even as a child, I displayed an inclination towards discussions and questioning that naturally led people to ask if I aspired to become a lawyer. As I grew older, this calling became more pronounced, and it became clear that my destiny lay in the legal profession.
In recent years, Nigeria’s economy has suffered a decline, impacting various professions, including lawyers, particularly those in private practice who do not receive a salary. Despite the precarious nature of private legal practice, I chose to voluntarily resign from the EFCC and return to this field. My decision was motivated by my passion for practicing as a private legal practitioner, my desire to address the injustices in our society, and my aspiration to become one of the best defense counsels. In private practice, there are numerous avenues to earn a living, and the most successful lawyers are often those who practice independently.
When considering the EFCC and its chairmen, it is apparent that successive Nigerian governments have engaged in political maneuvers that have crippled the organization. The arrest and subsequent embarrassment of each EFCC chairman by different administrations has contributed to a loss of morale within the commission. This constant threat of arrest prevents the EFCC from effectively investigating and prosecuting high-profile corruption cases involving powerful individuals. The EFCC was established to address these very cases, yet the fear of reprisals limits the commission’s ability to fulfill its mandate.
In terms of the EFCC’s reported number of convictions, it is important to question the nature of these convictions. While I do not dispute the figures, I believe that 80% of those convicted are not corrupt government officials. This raises concerns about the focus and effectiveness of the EFCC’s investigations. Major cases of corruption, such as the mismanagement of funds in the refinery sector or the alleged fraud associated with Nigeria Air, have not led to any significant arrests or prosecutions. The EFCC should be commended for its role in combating corruption, but it must also prioritize investigations into systemic corruption and hold those responsible accountable.
Despite its shortcomings, the EFCC remains a vital institution in Nigeria. An effective channel for submitting petitions and obtaining results, the EFCC can demonstrate its prosecutorial prowess in court. To strengthen the commission, it must be empowered financially and prioritize the welfare of its staff, who often face challenging working conditions.
As a lawyer, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to address the societal damage and regression that has taken place in Nigeria. It is disheartening to witness the erosion of integrity and the prevalence of insincerity among our leaders. However, being a lawyer grants me the power to effect change and fight for justice. I take pride in this profession and its potential to drive social transformation.
Turning to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), I must express some reservations regarding its ability to fulfill its mission of using the law as an instrument for social change. The current president, Yakubu Maikyau, does not possess the influence or command the respect necessary to drive significant social change. The embarassing situation that unfolded during the 2023 NBA conference, where the treasurer publicly denounced the financial statement of the association, revealed a lack of leadership and cohesion within the NBA. Presidents of the NBA have a duty to ensure that the association does not face such embarrassments.
, studying law and becoming a lawyer has been a fulfilling journey for me. It has allowed me to pursue my passion, fight against injustice, and contribute to societal progress. However, there are challenges that need to be addressed, both within the legal profession and the institutions responsible for upholding justice in Nigeria.
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