THE Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has criticised the decision of the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) to suspend Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, from the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria before concluding disciplinary proceedings against him, warning that the action raises serious concerns over due process and the presumption of innocence.

In a statement issued yesterday by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the rights group said the suspension could undermine public confidence in the fairness of disciplinary procedures within the legal profession if sanctions are imposed before allegations are fully investigated and determined.

HURIWA maintained that while the LPPC has the responsibility to safeguard the integrity and prestige of the SAN rank, disciplinary measures must strictly conform to constitutional principles and established rules of natural justice.

The association argued that the Nigerian legal system is founded on the principle that every person accused of wrongdoing remains innocent until proven guilty by a competent court, tribunal or other legally recognised adjudicatory body.

According to the group, that principle is fundamental to the administration of justice and serves as a safeguard against arbitrary punishment, institutional bias and premature sanctions.

HURIWA expressed concern that suspending Ozekhome before the conclusion of the disciplinary process could create the impression that mere allegations are sufficient to warrant punitive action, regardless of whether they have been substantiated through a fair hearing.

“The action raises fundamental questions about fairness, natural justice and the long-established legal doctrine of presumption of innocence, which remains one of the pillars upon which Nigeria’s jurisprudence is built,” the statement said.

The organisation noted that preserving the credibility of the legal profession requires disciplinary processes that are not only impartial but are also seen to comply with the principles of fairness and due process.

It stressed that the legal profession occupies a unique position as the custodian of justice and constitutional rights and must therefore demonstrate the highest standards of procedural fairness in handling allegations against its members.

According to HURIWA, previous disciplinary cases involving senior members of the Bar generally resulted in sanctions only after investigations had been completed and culpability established.

The group said such an approach reinforces public confidence by ensuring that disciplinary actions are based on verified facts rather than allegations that are still subject to determination.

It warned that suspending the privileges attached to the SAN rank before the conclusion of proceedings could be viewed as imposing punishment before a final verdict has been reached.

“Such a perception, whether intended or not, risks weakening public confidence in the fairness and objectivity of disciplinary institutions,” HURIWA stated.

The association therefore called on the LPPC to reconsider its decision and restore Ozekhome’s privileges pending the completion of investigations and final determination of the petition against him.

It explained that its intervention should not be interpreted as an attempt to defend any alleged misconduct or interfere with the committee’s disciplinary responsibilities.

Rather, HURIWA said its position was driven by the need to protect constitutional safeguards that shield every citizen and professional from premature sanctions before a finding of guilt.

HURIWA further argued that the credibility of public institutions is strengthened when they faithfully observe the rule of law and ensure equality before the law.

It warned that any departure from those principles, however well-intentioned, could create a precedent with wider implications for the administration of justice and professional discipline in Nigeria.

The association urged the LPPC to allow the disciplinary process to run its full course before taking any final decision on sanctions.

It added that protecting the integrity of the SAN rank and safeguarding the constitutional rights of those who hold the prestigious title should not be viewed as conflicting objectives.

According to HURIWA, both goals can be achieved through a transparent disciplinary process rooted firmly in fairness, impartiality and the principles of natural justice.