Over 100 Senior Lawyers Facing Corruption Trials, Says EFCC Chairman

Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has disclosed that over 100 senior lawyers are being prosecuted for offenses related to corruption.

He made this statement at the second annual lecture of the Body of Benchers held in Abuja, which saw participation from prominent figures within the legal field.

During his address, Olukoyede expressed his worries regarding the increasing involvement of legal practitioners in financial crimes.

He indicated that the EFCC has received numerous petitions regarding misconduct among lawyers.

'We have been urged to investigate several senior members of the Bar,' he stated.

As a practicing lawyer himself, Olukoyede emphasized that investigations have revealed various infractions, including the misappropriation of clients’ funds and facilitation of money laundering activities.

'I reviewed our database and found that we currently have approximately 100 senior lawyers under prosecution for these offenses,' he added.

He further noted the need for collaborative efforts to address these issues.

Additionally, the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) presented its 2025 report, detailing the disciplinary measures enacted against erring lawyers.

While presenting this report, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN) informed attendees that 17 legal practitioners faced sanctions for professional misconduct.

Ikpeazu stated that penalties varied, ranging from disbarment to suspension.

'In fact, three of the implicated lawyers had their names removed from the register of legal practitioners,' he mentioned.

He elaborated on the suspensions, noting that three individuals received five- year suspensions, two for four years, five for three years, four for two years, and one received a warning.

The chairman of the Body of Benchers, former Chief Justice of Nigeria Kayode Ariwoola, highlighted the significance of convening to evaluate the current state of the legal profession and to reaffirm ethical standards.

'A gathering like this does not serve as mere entertainment; it is an opportunity for contemplation on our foundational values, ethics, and our commitment to the judicial institution,' Ariwoola remarked.

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, underscored the critical role of regulation in maintaining the integrity of the legal profession.

She noted that the responsibilities of the Body of Benchers go beyond mere admission of lawyers; they include upholding discipline and preserving public trust in the justice system.