The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ungoggo Branch in Kano State, has called on legal practitioners to strictly adhere to ethical standards in the discharge of their duties, as enshrined in the Rules of Professional Conduct (2023).
The call was made during a one-day training seminar organized by the branch on Monday in Kano, with the theme “Upholding Ethical Standards in Practice.”
The event attracted a large number of legal professionals who gathered to refresh their knowledge and commitment to the core values of the legal profession.
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Speaking at the event, the chairman of the branch, Ahmad Abubakar Gwadabe, explained that the seminar was organized to sensitize members of the branch and help them stay compliant with professional expectations.
“This sensitization program is to enlighten our members on the dos and don’ts of legal practice. We want our lawyers to be well informed to avoid unethical behaviour,” he said.
He encouraged young lawyers in particular to take such training sessions seriously, noting that professional development is essential for a successful legal career.
“My call is for young lawyers to always attend these kinds of events. It helps broaden their understanding and keeps them updated on evolving legal standards.”
Presenting a paper at the seminar, Dr. Sani Rabi’u Bello, a lecturer at the Faculty of Law, Bayero University, Kano, emphasized the responsibilities of lawyers to their clients, courts, and colleagues.
“The paper aims to remind lawyers of their ethical duties, particularly the need to discharge responsibilities diligently, maintain client confidentiality, and avoid misappropriating client funds.”
He warned that violations of the rules attract serious sanctions from the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC), including suspension, fines, or permanent disbarment depending on the severity of the misconduct.
“Even after being called to the bar, a lawyer can be stripped of that title and barred from practicing in Nigeria if found guilty of grave ethical breaches. However, the lawyer still reserves the right to appeal any LPDC decision in court,” he added.
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