By Nkechi Eze
The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, has called on lawyers across Nigeria to uphold integrity, truth, and consistency in their professional conduct, stressing the importance of setting a positive precedent for the legal profession.
In an official signed statement, ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare disclosed that Dr. Aliyu made the call on Friday when he received the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Gwagwalada Branch, Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Owhor Clever N., Esq., and his executive team during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Addressing the delegation, Dr. Aliyu underscored the vital role of mentorship in shaping the next generation of lawyers, noting that the profession’s future depends on the values imparted by senior members. “It is important that young lawyers begin their careers under the guidance of seniors who possess unquestionable integrity. As senior practitioners, we must lead by example and ensure that what we pass on can stand the test of time,” he said.
He cautioned against conduct that could tarnish the image of the legal profession, urging members of the bar to remain steadfast in their positions on judicial matters. “If you argue today that white is white, tomorrow you should not argue that white is green or black. The public watches us closely, and inconsistency undermines the profession,” he warned.
Earlier, Barr. Clever stated that the visit was aimed at fostering collaboration with ICPC in areas such as anti-corruption and integrity training for members, contributing scholarly articles to NBA journals, and partnering on the branch’s Legal Week and other programmes. He also revealed that the branch planned to dedicate the next edition of its journal to honour Dr. Aliyu for his contributions to the fight against corruption.
On behalf of the NBA Gwagwalada Branch, Barr. Clever presented the ICPC Chairman with an Award of Excellence in recognition of his leadership achievements. In response, Dr. Aliyu assured the delegation of the Commission’s readiness to partner on the proposed initiatives and other projects of mutual interest.
