NBA Disclaims Unauthorised Name Change Services for Lawyers

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued a strong disclaimer against unauthorized individuals and entities offering services to effect surname changes on the Supreme Court Roll for married legal practitioners.

In a formal statement released by the NBA General Secretary, Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, the Association warned that such activities constitute a clear violation of established legal procedures.

The NBA emphasized that the process of updating personal details on the Roll of Legal Practitioners is strictly a judicial function, overseen solely by the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

The statement unequivocally noted that “no private individual, office, organisation, or firm is authorised by either the Supreme Court or the NBA to act as intermediary, agent, or service provider for such applications.”

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It further cautioned that any legal practitioner found to be involved in such unauthorized arrangements—whether by engagement, promotion, or profiteering—will be subjected to stringent disciplinary measures in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct and NBA disciplinary protocols.

Additionally, the NBA warned that any person, lawyer or not, who falsely claims to have the authority to facilitate such services will face prosecution and other legal consequences.

The Association urged legal practitioners who wish to update their records following a change in marital status to strictly follow official Supreme Court procedures or seek proper guidance through the NBA National Secretariat or their respective branches.

Reiterating its commitment to upholding professional ethics and lawful procedure, the NBA advised the public and members of the Bar to remain vigilant against misleading claims and to report any suspicious activities.