The Lawyers Network Against Corruption has called on the extant Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Chief Wole Olanipekun SAN to step aside.
This call was made in response to a petition filed by the NBA to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) seeking the sanction of a partner in Mr Olanipekun’s law firm, Adekunbi Ogunde, over allegations of professional misconduct.
The allegations of professional misconduct stem from a leaked email in which Ms Ogunde allegedly solicited for a retainer amidst allusions to influence peddling on behalf of the Firm of Chief Olanipekun SAN, in violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners.
The Petition also seeks a determination of the liability of other Partners in the Firm for sanction. The Disciplinary Committee operates under the direction and supervision of the Chairman of the Body of Benchers.
In a statement dated 25th July, 2022, issued by Aondona Tyolmun, the Network stated that “LAWNAC recognizes that as custodians of the highest distinction and guardians of the nobility in the Legal Profession, the leadership of the Body of Benchers must be seen to be above reproach.
The Body of Benchers is saddled with the responsibility of determining who is fit and proper to be called to the Bar. If charity begins at home, it is imperative that Chief Olanipekun SAN, step aside to allow due process take its course especially considering Ms. Ogunde’s allusions to influence peddling within the judiciary. Stepping is not only honorable, it will imbue trust and confidence in the system.”
The Anticorruption Network cautioned commentators to avoid obfuscating the issues by resorting to base tribal sentiments and ethnic jingoism, noting that the whole world is watching and taking note.
Lawyers Network Against Corruption is committed to ensuring transparency in governance, public service and the administration of justice at all levels.
