GADZAMA CHALLENGES LPDC’S THREE-YEAR SUSPENSION, FILES APPEAL
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), J-K Gadzama, has rejected the decision of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) directing his suspension from legal practice for three years, describing the ruling as unsupported by the evidence and the applicable law.
Gadzama made his position known in a statement issued on Wednesday following the LPDC’s direction in Complaint No. BB/LPDC/1314/2024, instituted by Mr. Chris Alashi against Ocha P. Ulegede, Esq. and himself.
According to the senior lawyer, although he had been informed of the Committee’s decision, he was yet to receive the certified true copy of the directive.
He disclosed that he had, however, instructed his legal team to file an immediate appeal before the Supreme Court.
Citing Section 11(8)(a) of the Legal Practitioners Act, Gadzama maintained that the filing of an appeal within the time prescribed by law automatically suspends the implementation of the LPDC’s decision pending the determination of the appeal.
He therefore assured clients, colleagues and members of the public that his right to practise law remains valid until the appeal is determined.
“I wish to reassure my clients, colleagues, friends and the general public that, upon the filing of the appeal within the time prescribed by law, my right to practise as a legal practitioner remains unaffected pending the final determination of the appeal,” he said.
Gadzama said he holds the institutions established to regulate the legal profession in high esteem and remains committed to the rule of law, but respectfully disagrees with the Committee’s findings.
According to him, the allegations against him that he improperly took over another lawyer’s brief, solicited clients and wrongfully appropriated professional fees are unfounded.
He explained that he was retained directly by the judgment creditors through written letters of instruction and carried out his professional duties strictly in accordance with that retainer.
“The documentary evidence before the Committee does not support the findings made against me,” he stated.
The senior advocate further argued that the dispute essentially arose from issues relating to legal representation and professional fees, insisting that the disciplinary process was not the appropriate forum for resolving such matters.
Expressing confidence in the judicial process, Gadzama said he believes the Supreme Court will carefully examine both the legal and factual issues raised in the case and reach a just determination.
He also expressed appreciation to colleagues, clients, friends and members of the public for their support and prayers following the LPDC’s decision.
“I remain steadfast in my commitment to the legal profession, the administration of justice and the highest standards of professional integrity,” he said, adding that he remains confident that justice will ultimately prevail.
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