Nigerian lawyers involved in the controversial Blue Silks initiative have petitioned international legal organisations over disciplinary proceedings they allege amount to harassment.
According to source, the petitions challenge steps taken against lawyers associated with the proposed Senior Counsel of Nigeria designation.
The report, published on October 20, identifies Dr Tonye Clinton Jaja, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Law Society, as one of the petitioners.
The initiative, promoted by the Nigerian Law Society and the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners, seeks recognition for non-litigation lawyers. It faces opposition from the Nigerian Bar Association and Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee.
Jaja alleged that disciplinary proceedings against him and 13 other lawyers should not continue while related lawsuits remain unresolved.
The petitioners approached organisations including the Law Society of England and Wales, Commonwealth Lawyers Association and International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute.
Their complaints raise questions concerning freedom of association, fair hearing and the relationship between pending litigation and professional disciplinary proceedings.
However, the allegations of persecution remain the petitioners’ position. The report does not establish that an international organisation has upheld their complaints or that the disciplinary proceedings have been stopped.
The dispute therefore remains unresolved, with the lawyers seeking external intervention while contesting the domestic regulatory action.
Related News:
behind Games Village, Abuja
5A, CGH, Games Village, Abuja