ICPC Chairman Urges Lawyers To Avoid Frivolous Petitions Against Judges and Anti-Corruption Agencies.
The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, has cautioned members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) against submitting baseless petitions targeting anti-corruption agencies and judges.
Dr Aliyu issued this warning during a meeting with the Chairman and members of the National Litigation Committee (NLT) of the NBA at the ICPC Headquarters in Abuja on Monday. He emphasised that such petitions undermine efforts in the fight against corruption and do little to foster cooperation between lawyers and anti-corruption bodies.
“Writing unnecessary petitions against officers of the Commission and judges without concrete justification is not proper, as we are all colleagues and partners in the fight against corruption,” he stated. The ICPC Chairman called on lawyers to explore professional measures to resolve disputes arising during investigations and litigations.
Dr Aliyu reassured the legal community of the Commission’s commitment to respecting their rights. He said, “In ICPC, there is no harassment of lawyers. We ensure that the rights of lawyers are protected, as well as the rights of our officers in the course of their duties.” He encouraged lawyers to raise concerns with the Commission if necessary, promising that such issues would be addressed objectively.
The Chairman also highlighted the importance of mutual respect and professional conduct, urging lawyers to show courtesy to ICPC officers during their engagements. He further encouraged lawyers to prioritise anti-money laundering issues as stipulated in the NBA’s professional guidelines.
The Chairman of the National Litigation Committee, Barrister Vincent Otaokpokpu, commended the ICPC’s efforts and reiterated the Committee’s dedication to protecting the rights of lawyers. He acknowledged the challenges anti-corruption agencies face when dealing with overzealous lawyers defending corruption suspects and pledged to educate NBA members on upholding the integrity of the Bar while promoting the rule of law.
Otaokpokpu stated, “The Committee seeks to collaborate with the ICPC to join forces against corruption while ensuring the rights and interests of lawyers are protected.” He added that the Committee would assist in litigation matters and strengthen cooperation between the NBA and ICPC.
The meeting underscored the shared responsibility of lawyers and anti-corruption agencies in fostering transparency, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law in Nigeria’s justice system.
