Fagbemi Calls for Faster, More Transparent Discipline of Lawyers Over Misconduct
Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi has called for faster and more transparent disciplinary proceedings against lawyers, warning that years of delay in resolving misconduct complaints could erode public confidence in the legal profession.
Fagbemi Raises Concern Over Delayed Complaints
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has called for faster and more transparent disciplinary proceedings against lawyers accused of professional misconduct, warning that prolonged delays could weaken public confidence in the legal profession.
Speaking at the Supreme Court’s special session marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 legal year in Abuja, Fagbemi said the growing number of misconduct complaints required stronger disciplinary processes, particularly where cases involving senior members of the Bar remained unresolved for years.
He warned that persistent delays could create the impression that the profession shields its own members from accountability.
LPDC Process Under Pressure for Reform
Fagbemi identified the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) as requiring urgent attention. He also disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Justice was engaging relevant stakeholders over issues arising from a Supreme Court judgment clarifying the appropriate appeal route against LPDC directions.
His call places renewed attention on how complaints against legal practitioners are investigated and resolved. A credible disciplinary system must be capable of addressing misconduct promptly while ensuring that lawyers facing allegations receive a fair hearing and that decisions follow the applicable rules.
Faster proceedings alone are not enough; transparency, procedural fairness and consistent application of professional standards are also essential.
Broader Push to Restore Confidence in the Profession
Fagbemi’s remarks formed part of a wider appeal for improved accountability and efficiency across the justice system. He urged the 68 newly elevated Senior Advocates of Nigeria to protect the integrity of the rank, mentor younger lawyers and contribute to access to justice and professional reform.
He also backed continued judicial modernisation, including electronic filing, automated case tracking and secure digital records, as ways to reduce procedural delays.
The central challenge is translating these calls into practical reforms that deliver timely outcomes without compromising due process. For the legal profession, the credibility of disciplinary institutions depends not only on the rules they apply, but also on whether complaints are resolved fairly and within a reasonable time.
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