By our Reporter
The Council of Legal Education has warned candidates awaiting Call to the Bar against the unauthorized use of barristers’ regalia, cautioning that violations could attract disciplinary sanctions and jeopardize their eligibility for admission to the Nigerian Bar.
In a notice issued by the Nigerian Law School, the Council said it had observed with concern a growing trend of candidates circulating invitations, photographs and videos of themselves dressed in full legal regalia before their official Call to the Bar ceremony.
According to the Council, some candidates have also been portraying themselves as qualified legal practitioners on social media, contrary to the provisions of the law.
The notice specifically warned against candidates presenting themselves as lawyers before being officially called to the Nigerian Bar, addressing themselves as Barristers and Solicitors of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, or appending the title “Esquire” to their names in violation of Section 22 of the Legal Practitioners Act.
The Council also frowned at the practice of wearing the wig and gown with unauthorized, casual or non-prescribed attire, describing it as inconsistent with the dignity, decorum and established standards governing the use of legal regalia under Rule 45 of the Rules of Professional Conduct.
It directed all candidates who have already posted such photographs, videos or related content online to immediately remove them from all social media and other digital platforms.
The Council warned that failure to comply with the directive could result in disciplinary action and may adversely affect a candidate’s fitness and eligibility for Call to the Bar.
The notice was signed by the Secretary to the Council and Director of Administration, Aderonke O. Osho, who urged all candidates to uphold the ethics and professional standards of the legal profession throughout the Call to the Bar process.
