The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) has suspended the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) status of veteran lawyer Mike Ozekhome pending the outcome of an ongoing disciplinary investigation.
The decision was reached during a recent meeting of the committee, where members agreed that the temporary suspension was necessary while allegations against the senior lawyer continue to be reviewed.
According to the committee, the action was taken under existing rules guiding the SAN rank, which allow disciplinary measures where questions arise concerning professional conduct.
As part of the decision, Ozekhome has been directed to stop publicly using the SAN title until the disciplinary proceedings are fully concluded.
The LPPC explained that the temporary suspension is aimed at protecting the credibility and integrity attached to the prestigious legal rank while the investigation remains ongoing.
Officials stressed that the move should not be seen as a final judgment against the lawyer, but rather a procedural step pending the final outcome of the internal review process.
The development has attracted major attention within Nigeria’s legal community because Ozekhome is one of the country’s most recognised constitutional lawyers and has handled several high-profile cases over the years.
Reports indicate that the disciplinary investigation is linked to matters currently under legal scrutiny, although the committee has not publicly released full details surrounding the allegations.
The LPPC also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining ethical standards within the legal profession and ensuring senior lawyers uphold the responsibilities attached to the SAN rank.
The suspension has now placed focus on what could become one of the most closely watched disciplinary proceedings involving a top Nigerian lawyer in recent years.