By Suleiman Anyalewechi
Senior Lawyer, Joe-Kyari Gadzama, SAN, has faulted his three-year suspension by the Legal Practitioners’ Disciplinary Committee, LPDC.
The LPDC had, on Wednesday, July 29, barred Gadzama from practising as a lawyer anywhere in the country for a period of three years, citing illegal client solicitation and cornering of briefs belonging to fellow legal practitioners as major reasons for its action.
However, in a swift statement, Gadzama, while rejecting the said suspension order, described the action of the LPDC as running foul of extant rules and regulations.
He maintained that the documentary evidence made available to the Committee does not, in any way, support the findings made against him.
While reassuring his clients and associates, Gadzama noted that the decision of the Committee will not stop him from practising as a lawyer, as he has already instructed his legal team to file an appeal.
“My attention has been drawn to the direction delivered today, July 29 ,2026 ,by the Legal Practitioners’ Disciplinary Committee LPDC in compliant No BB/LPDC/1314/2024 instituted by Mr Chris Alashi against Ocha P Ulegede and myself.
“I have been informed that Committee found against me and directed that I be suspended from legal practice for a period of three years.
“While I am yet to receive or review the certified true copy, CTC, of the direction, I have instructed my legal team to file an immediate appeal. Pursuant to Section 11(8) (a) of the Legal Practitioners’ Act ,the filing of an appeal within the prescribed time prevents the direction from taking effect pending the determination of the appeal.
“I hold the institutions established to regulate the legal profession in the highest regard and remain firmly committed to the rule of law.
“However, I respectfully disagree with the Committee’s decision and firmly believe that it is not supported by the evidence or applicable law.
“I wish to reassure my clients, colleagues, friends and the general public that upon the filing of the appeal within the time prescribed by law ,my right to practice as a legal practitioner remains unaffected pending the final determination of the appeal in accordance with the provisions of the Legal Practitioners’ Act”, Gadzama stated in his statement.
This is as he expressed sincere appreciations to friends , colleagues , clients and members of the public for their overwhelming show of solidarity, support and prayers.
Discover more from The Source
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
