LPPC Suspends Ozekhome Pending Disciplinary Proceedings

The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) has suspended prominent lawyer Mike Ozekhome from the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), pending the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings. The decision, announced after the committee’s 173rd general meeting, marks a significant development in Nigeria’s legal community, where the SAN title is regarded as the highest professional honour for advocates.

Kabir Akanbi, Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, confirmed the suspension in a statement issued on Thursday. He explained that the decision was taken pursuant to paragraph 26(6) of the guidelines governing the conferment and regulation of the SAN rank.

According to the LPPC, the suspension will remain in force until the disciplinary and ethics sub-committee concludes its investigation, alongside other related proceedings.

The SAN rank is awarded to lawyers who have distinguished themselves in advocacy and contributed significantly to the development of law in Nigeria. Suspension from the rank is rare and usually signals serious disciplinary concerns. While Ozekhome retains his license to practice law, he cannot use the SAN title until the proceedings are resolved.

Legal analysts note that the move underscores the LPPC’s determination to uphold professional standards and maintain the integrity of the SAN rank. The committee has previously emphasised that the title is not only a recognition of excellence but also a responsibility to uphold ethical conduct.

ALSO READ

Turaki, PDP Endorses APM Candidate In Osun Governorship Race

Mike Ozekhome is one of Nigeria’s most prominent constitutional lawyers and human rights advocates. Over the years, he has handled high-profile cases and frequently commented on national issues, earning a reputation as a vocal defender of civil liberties. His suspension therefore comes as a notable development, given his visibility in both legal and political circles.

The LPPC, chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, oversees the conferment of the SAN rank and enforces disciplinary measures when necessary. Its guidelines empower the committee to suspend or withdraw the rank from any lawyer found to have breached professional ethics.

Paragraph 26(6), under which Ozekhome was suspended, provides for interim measures to ensure that disciplinary proceedings are not undermined by continued use of the SAN title. This safeguard is designed to protect the credibility of the rank while investigations are ongoing.

While the LPPC has not disclosed details of the allegations leading to Ozekhome’s suspension, the announcement has sparked discussions among lawyers and observers. Some view the move as a reminder that the SAN rank carries strict ethical obligations, while others caution against prejudging the outcome of the disciplinary process.

Legal practitioners emphasise that suspension is not equivalent to removal. Ozekhome’s fate will depend on the findings of the disciplinary sub-committee and any subsequent decisions by the LPPC.

The suspension highlights the LPPC’s resolve to enforce accountability among holders of the SAN rank. It also reflects the committee’s effort to preserve public confidence in the legal profession at a time when Nigeria faces growing scrutiny over governance and institutional integrity.

For Ozekhome, the development represents a temporary setback in a distinguished career. The final outcome of the disciplinary proceedings will determine whether he regains full use of the SAN title or faces further sanctions.

The LPPC’s suspension of Mike Ozekhome underscores the seriousness with which Nigeria’s legal profession treats ethical standards. As one of the country’s most recognised lawyers, his case will be closely watched both within and outside the legal community. The decision reinforces the principle that the SAN rank is not only a mark of distinction but also a commitment to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct.