NBA Criticizes EFCC Boss Over Allegations Against Lawyers

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Affam Osigwe, has strongly criticized recent remarks by the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, accusing lawyers of being primary enablers of financial crimes.

Speaking at the unveiling of the 2025 NBA General Conference logo and theme, Osigwe acknowledged that no profession is entirely free from ethical breaches but described the EFCC chairman’s comments as inaccurate and unwarranted.

“While misconduct exists in every profession, the blanket profiling of lawyers as central to financial crimes is deeply flawed and unfair,” Osigwe stated, emphasizing the essential role of legal practitioners in upholding justice and defending clients within the bounds of the law.

The NBA president called for a more balanced approach to addressing professional misconduct, urging institutions like the EFCC to engage constructively with the legal community instead of making generalized accusations.

The remarks have sparked reactions within the legal and public sectors, reigniting conversations about ethical standards and the role of various professionals in combating corruption.