Nigerian Bar Association Responds To Alleged Bribery Attempt In Kano Election Petition Tribunal

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued a response to the recent allegation put forth by Judge Flora Azinge, the Chairman of the Kano Election Petition Tribunal, who claimed that a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) had attempted to bribe her with a sum of N10 billion.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The NBA has announced its commitment to investigating the allegation and applying appropriate sanctions if it is substantiated….CONTINUE READING

Judge Azinge made the allegation during an open court session, expressing her firm stance against bribery and corruption within the tribunal. She also emphasized that she would not tolerate any attempts to compromise her integrity or that of the tribunal.

In a subsequent clarification, she specified that a lawyer had attempted to offer her meat during the Eid-El Kabir celebration, which she declined and cautioned against due to ethical considerations.

In response to the allegation, the NBA’s Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) has taken action. They have formed a panel comprised of three members with the mandate to thoroughly investigate the matter and deliver their findings within a span of ten days.

The association expressed deep concern over the allegation and condemned any actions that could undermine the integrity of the legal system.

NBA-SPIDEL referred to the senior lawyers involved in the alleged bribery attempt as “shameless characters” and criticized their behavior as unethical.

The association applauded Judge Azinge for her transparency and courage in bringing attention to the attempted bribe and the issue of money flowing within the tribunal.

Furthermore, NBA-SPIDEL highlighted that attempts to bribe judges and manipulate justice not only constitute criminal acts but also violate the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners.

The statement emphasized that lawyers are expected to uphold the rule of law, promote justice, and maintain a high standard of professional conduct. Any actions that obstruct, delay, or undermine the due administration of justice are considered unacceptable by the association.

The NBA’s response underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legal system and upholding ethical standards within the legal profession.