… INEC’s Suspended Adamawa REC Faces Petition Filed by Concerned Citizen
… UNICAL Professor and Kano Tribunal Judge Under Investigation for Allegations of Sexual Misconduct and Bribery
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has taken a strict stance against alleged professional misconduct by legal practitioners. In a recent development, the NBA has filed petitions with the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) against Mr. Hudu Yunusa-Ari and Ifunanya Excel Grant, also known as “baddest lawyer,” urging disciplinary actions to be taken.
According to a statement released by the NBA and obtained by THE WHISTLER, one of the petitions is lodged against Miss Ifunanya, who is a member of the NBA Abia branch. The complaint against her revolves around her activities on social media, where she has gained notoriety for reportedly sharing explicit photos and videos of herself, as well as engaging in the consumption of marijuana.
The NBA’s move to file the petition reflects its commitment to upholding professional standards within the legal community. By bringing attention to Miss Ifunanya’s alleged unbecoming conduct, the association seeks to ensure accountability and maintain the integrity of the legal profession.
The LPDC will now undertake disciplinary proceedings to investigate the allegations put forth by the NBA. These proceedings will serve as an opportunity for Mr. Hudu Yunusa-Ari and Miss Ifunanya to present their respective cases and defend their actions. The outcome of the investigations and subsequent actions taken by the LPDC will determine the appropriate course of disciplinary measures, if deemed necessary.
Another petition filed by the NBA targets Mr. Yunusa-Ari, who currently serves as a National Electoral Commissioner (REC) but is suspended by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The petition accuses him of prematurely declaring the results of the supplementary 2023 gubernatorial election in Adamawa State, even while votes were still being counted.
The LPDC Rules 2020, which are officially gazetted and obtained by THE WHISTLER, outline the process for addressing allegations of misconduct against legal practitioners. As per these rules, the Committee within the Body of Benchers (BoB) holds the authority to determine such allegations once proceedings are concluded.
The petition lodged against Mr. Yunusa-Ari signifies the seriousness with which the NBA views the actions of legal practitioners and their adherence to ethical standards, especially in matters as significant as electoral processes. The LPDC, operating under the purview of the BoB, is tasked with assessing the allegations against him and making a well-informed decision regarding any necessary disciplinary action.
The forthcoming proceedings, guided by the LPDC Rules 2020, will enable both the petitioner and Mr. Yunusa-Ari to present their arguments and present any evidence. These proceedings are crucial in ensuring transparency, fairness, and justice in addressing the allegations made against him. Ultimately, it will be the LPDC’s responsibility to assess the evidence, consider the arguments, and come to a conclusive decision regarding potential disciplinary measures, if warranted.
According to Rules 21 to 23 of the LPDC, certain penalties can be imposed on individuals found guilty of misconduct, which can include suspension from practice or admonition.
One key provision in the LPDC Rules states, “If, after the hearing, the Disciplinary Committee finds that the allegation of infamous conduct in a professional respect has been proved, the Disciplinary Committee may, if it deems appropriate, provide direction.” These directions can consist of various outcomes such as:
(a) Ordering the Registrar to strike the legal practitioner’s name off the roll, thus prohibiting them from practicing law.
(b) Suspending the legal practitioner from engaging in legal practice for a specified period by instructing them not to practice during that time.
(c) Admonishing the legal practitioner, which serves as a formal reprimand.
Additionally, if deemed necessary, the Disciplinary Committee has the authority to require the refund of funds that may have been handled by the legal practitioner during the relevant transaction. They may also demand the surrender of documents or any other relevant items, depending on the circumstances of the case. It’s important to note that the Disciplinary Committee retains the discretion to impose multiple orders simultaneously if they deem it appropriate.
These provisions within the LPDC Rules are designed to maintain professional integrity, uphold legal ethics, and ensure accountability among legal practitioners. The specific penalty or combination of penalties imposed will be determined based on the severity of the misconduct and the circumstances surrounding the case.
In response to serious allegations of sexual assault, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has initiated an investigation into the conduct of Professor Cyril Ndifon, the suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar.
Following accusations made by female students, Prof. Ndifon has been suspended from his position. The students allege that he engaged in sexual harassment by pressuring them for better grades and advancement opportunities.
The NBA’s decision to open an investigation underscores its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability within the legal profession. The allegations of sexual assault are grave and warrant a thorough examination to determine the veracity of the claims.
The suspension of Prof. Ndifon by the university administration demonstrates the seriousness with which such allegations are taken in the academic community. The investigation by the NBA will provide a platform for all parties involved to present their testimonies and evidence, allowing for a fair and impartial assessment of the circumstances.
The NBA’s investigation will seek to ascertain the facts surrounding the allegations against Prof. Ndifon. Depending on the findings of the investigation, appropriate disciplinary measures may be taken to address the alleged misconduct and uphold the rights and well-being of the affected students.
Prompted by accusations of bribery, an investigation has been launched into the National Assembly and State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal in Kano. The Chairman of the Tribunal, Justice Flora Azinge, raised alarm regarding these allegations.
The seriousness of the bribery claims prompted the initiation of an investigation to ascertain their validity. The allegations suggest that improper financial inducements have been offered or accepted within the tribunal.
Justice Flora Azinge’s decision to alert the relevant authorities reflects her commitment to upholding the integrity of the legal process. By bringing attention to the allegations, she seeks to ensure that justice is served and that the tribunal maintains its impartiality and credibility.
The investigation into the bribery allegations aims to shed light on the matter and determine the truth behind the claims. It is crucial to uncover any potential improprieties that could compromise the fairness and transparency of the tribunal’s proceedings. Depending on the investigation’s findings, appropriate actions may be taken to address any misconduct and uphold the public’s trust in the tribunal’s proceedings.
During her testimony, Judge Flora Azinge disclosed that one of her fellow tribunal members had faced intense pressure to accept large sums of money from one of the parties involved in a case before her tribunal. This revelation further emphasizes the need for a comprehensive investigation into the bribery allegations.
Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has explicitly called upon all individuals who are under investigation to fully cooperate with the fact-finding committee. This cooperative stance is essential for gaining a thorough understanding of the circumstances surrounding the allegations.
In addition to urging cooperation, Mr. Maikyau has issued a warning to fellow legal practitioners, cautioning them against becoming “bad eggs” in the profession. This serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical behavior and adherence to the highest standards of integrity within the legal community.
The NBA’s fact-finding committee is committed to conducting a fair and unbiased investigation. By encouraging cooperation and accountability, the NBA and its president seek to uphold the reputation of the legal profession and restore public trust in the integrity of the judiciary. It is their collective responsibility to ensure that justice is served and that the legal system remains free from corruption and external influence.
Akorede Habeeb Lawal, the National Publicity Secretary of the NBA, has issued a statement regarding the decision made by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the NBA. This decision was reached during the NEC’s recent monthly meeting, which was chaired by the NBA President, Mr. Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON SAN, and attended by all national officers of the association.
In response to the allegations against the suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar, Prof. Cyril Ndifon, the NBA NEC has formed an ad-hoc committee. The committee consists of Mrs. Linda Rose Bala, the 1st Vice President of the NBA, Mr. Daniel Kip, the Assistant General Secretary of the NBA, the Chairperson of the NBA Women’s Forum, and the Chairman of the NBA Calabar Branch.
The primary objective of this ad-hoc committee is to thoroughly investigate the allegations brought against Prof. Ndifon. Their efforts will be guided by the principles of fairness, impartiality, and due process, with the ultimate goal of uncovering the truth regarding the alleged misconduct.
The NBA’s engagement in this investigation highlights its commitment to upholding professional conduct and maintaining the highest standards of ethics within the legal community. Through the diligent work of the ad-hoc committee, the NBA aims to ensure justice for all parties involved and preserve the reputation of the legal profession.
The NBA is drawing attention to a recent media report concerning the attempted bribe of Justice Flora Azinge, who presides over the National Assembly and State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal in Kano. This development has been brought to the forefront due to its significant implications.
In response, the NBA has taken proactive measures to address the situation. On August 16th, 2023, the association sent an official letter to Justice Azinge. This correspondence formally requests her cooperation in sharing additional details related to the attempted bribe. The NBA intends to utilize this information to conduct a thorough investigation into the validity of the allegation.
By seeking Justice Azinge’s willingness to provide further insight, the NBA demonstrates its commitment to upholding justice and integrity within the legal profession. Such actions are essential for maintaining transparency and accountability, which are crucial to preserving public trust in the legal system.
The investigation into the attempted bribe reflects the NBA’s dedication to resolving any allegations of misconduct promptly. By actively pursuing the truth, the association aims to shed light on the matter and address any potential wrongdoing. The NBA’s efforts in this case reaffirm its commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards among legal practitioners.
During a recent monthly meeting, the National Officers of the NBA addressed concerns regarding the inappropriate behavior displayed by certain members of the legal profession.
Subsequent to the meeting, the NBA has taken action by filing petitions with the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC). The petitions have been filed against Mr. Hudu Yunusa-Ari, who holds the position of suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Additionally, a petition has been filed against Ifunanya Excel Grant, a young lawyer from the Aba Branch, known on social media as “the baddest lawyer.”
These petitions emphasize the NBA’s commitment to upholding the standards of professional conduct within the legal community. The allegations against Mr. Yunusa-Ari and Ms. Grant, if proven true, demonstrate behavior that is inconsistent with the ethical expectations of legal practitioners.
By submitting these petitions to the LPDC, the NBA seeks due process and fair investigation into the allegations against the individuals in question. These actions aim to maintain the integrity of the legal profession and serve as a reminder that accountability is paramount when it comes to upholding the standards and reputation of the legal community.
It is crucial to emphasize that none of the lawyers who have been petitioned or are currently under investigation are considered guilty of professional misconduct until the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) concludes its proceedings and renders its decisions following a fair trial. This reminder reflects the principle of presumed innocence and the importance of due process in handling such cases.
The NBA President has highlighted the significance of lawyers maintaining the highest standards of conduct in all circumstances. He has reiterated the commitment of the current NBA leadership to continually work towards eliminating the presence of any unethical practitioners within the profession. This commitment stems from the recognition that the actions of a few individuals should not tarnish the overall reputation of the legal community.
The NBA President’s emphasis on maintaining professionalism underscores the association’s dedication to upholding integrity and accountability within the legal profession. It serves as a reminder to all practitioners to uphold the ethical standards expected of them and to adhere to the principles that guide their practice.
