Fake lawyer jailed over forged NBA seal, impersonation in Lagos

A Lagos court has sentenced a 55-year-old man for posing as a lawyer and using a forged Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) seal. John Nwawuto Anoruo pleaded guilty to impersonation and the fraudulent use of a counterfeit NBA seal, admitting to operating a legal and educational consultancy without being a qualified legal practitioner.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested Anoruo following investigations into a petition he submitted on behalf of clients. Investigators discovered that both the petition and a subsequent withdrawal letter bore a forged NBA seal. Further checks confirmed Anoruo was neither called to the Nigerian Bar nor enrolled as a legal practitioner.

Justice A.M. Lawal found Anoruo guilty and imposed a sentence, a decision the EFCC stated underscores its commitment to tackling forgery and impersonation. The NBA introduced personalized security seals and stamps in 2015 to combat fake lawyers and ensure the integrity of legal documents. Legal processes filed in Nigerian courts typically require an official NBA seal from a duly enrolled practitioner.

The NBA has repeatedly warned the public against engaging unqualified individuals who present themselves as lawyers. Such impersonation not only defrauds clients but also poses a significant threat to the administration of justice in Nigeria.