On Thursday, authorities apprehended an individual impersonating a lawyer, known only as U.T. Oghenetejiri, at the Magistrate Court in Orhunwhorhun, located within Delta State‘s Udu Local Government Area.
The suspect was attending a civil case when members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Udu Branch’s Anti-Fake Lawyer Committee, led by David Omage and G. Fenfe, intervened after he failed to adequately answer a question posed by the presiding magistrate.
Instead of responding, Oghenetejiri fled the courtroom, prompting court officials and legal practitioners to pursue him to the nearby Orhuwhorun market, where he was eventually detained.
Investigations revealed that Oghenetejiri had been frequenting local courts for several months, falsely presenting himself as a licensed attorney while representing clients.
His inconsistent legal reasoning and inability to provide credible information about his legal education raised immediate suspicion among court officials.
Edmund Odohisi, Esq., Chairman of the NBA Udu Branch, disclosed that the association had previously received reports about an individual masquerading as a lawyer and had quietly initiated an inquiry.
“Protecting the integrity of our profession is paramount,” Odohisi stated. “When he reappeared at the Orhuwhorun court, our team acted swiftly.”
Following his capture, local lawyers, with support from court security personnel, held Oghenetejiri before handing him over to the police for further investigation.
Early findings indicate that the suspect had been drafting legal documents, forging official stamps and seals, and even operated an office on Jakpa Road in Effurun.
Authorities recovered multiple copies of property transfer deeds and other legal documents from his possession at the time of arrest.
Further checks confirmed that Oghenetejiri never attended law school and is not registered on the Supreme Court of Nigeria’s official roll of legal practitioners-a mandatory credential for practicing law in the country.
This case has reignited discussions about the need for enhanced regulatory oversight and more rigorous verification processes within Nigeria’s judicial framework.
Legal professionals throughout the state have commended the prompt response of the NBA Udu Branch and emphasized the importance of vigilance to safeguard the legal profession’s reputation.
The NBA Udu Branch has called on the public to report any suspicious individuals claiming to be legal practitioners and reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining justice and ethical standards.
At the time of reporting, Oghenetejiri remains in custody at the Ovwian Police Station, awaiting formal charges.