What began as a routine court session at the Orhuwhorun Magistrates’ Court on Thursday quickly spiraled into high drama, as a man posing as a legal practitioner was unmasked and apprehended by members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Udu Branch.
The suspect, identified as U. T. Oghenetejiri, was caught attempting to represent a client in a criminal case when eagle-eyed lawyers noticed inconsistencies in his conduct. His inability to respond to basic legal questions from the presiding Magistrate raised immediate suspicion.
Sensing trouble, Oghenetejiri made a dash out of the courtroom, leading to a dramatic chase through the Orhuwhorun Market, as court staff and lawyers gave pursuit.
The imposter was eventually cornered and subdued by members of the NBA Anti-Fake Lawyers Committee, alongside court security personnel.
Court sources disclosed that the suspect had been a familiar face around local courts in Udu, masquerading as a certified legal practitioner. His charade, however, began to unravel as legal practitioners grew increasingly wary of his flawed legal arguments and evasiveness regarding his educational background.
“We had been getting reports about someone parading himself as a lawyer in our courts,” said Edmund Odohisi Esq., Chairman of NBA Udu Branch. “Our committee launched a quiet investigation. When he showed up again at Orhuwhorun Court, we moved in swiftly.”
Upon apprehension, a shocking cache of forged legal documents was recovered from Oghenetejiri. Among the items found were fake lawyer’s stamp and seal, multiple deeds of transfer, and legal correspondence files, allegedly drafted for unsuspecting clients. Investigations further revealed he had been operating from a makeshift office along Jakpa Road in Effurun.
Checks confirmed that the suspect never attended law school and is not listed on the roll of legal practitioners maintained by the Supreme Court of Nigeria — a legal prerequisite for anyone practicing law in the country.
He was immediately handed over to officers at the Ovwian Police Station, where he remains in custody pending further investigation and arraignment.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for stricter verification protocols within Nigeria’s judicial system. Legal practitioners across Delta State have commended the prompt action taken by the NBA Udu Branch, noting the growing threat posed by fake lawyers to the credibility of the justice system.
“This arrest sends a strong message that the NBA will not tolerate impostors within our sacred profession,” Odohisi affirmed, adding, “The public must remain vigilant and report anyone they suspect of impersonating a lawyer.”
The Udu NBA reiterated its commitment to upholding professional ethics and ensuring that only qualified practitioners appear before the court.
