LPDC Disbars Adekunbi Ogunde

The Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) has taken disciplinary action against Adekunbi Ogunde, a principal partner who was formerly associated with the law firm of Wole Olanipekun & Co.

Gatekeepers News reports that the LPDC has revoked Adekunbi Ogunde’s practising licence due to her involvement in an unethical practice .

The controversy surrounding Ogunde began when she attempted to poach Saipem Oil Ltd, an international oil company, from another law firm by sending an email soliciting the company’s brief in a matter against the Rivers State Government that had already been settled by the law firm of Okeke & Ajumogobia.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) swiftly instituted disciplinary proceedings against Ogunde, citing violation of the sacred rules of professional conduct, particularly Rule 1.

In a petition dated July 19, 2022, the NBA prayed the LPDC to immediately commence the disciplinary process and prosecute Ogunde. The petition also sought the LPDC’s opinion on whether the partners of Wole Olanipekun & Co. should also be disciplined, considering Ogunde’s ostensible authority to act as a partner and her actions on behalf of the firm.

The NBA noted that members of the Association were taken aback by the contents of the letter, which allegedly originated from the esteemed office of Wole Olanipekun & Co. The letter was seen as an unprofessional and surreptitious attempt to solicit a brief from Saipem SPA, knowing that another firm was already handling the case.

The letter also touted the supposed overriding influence of the firm’s principal partner, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, who was the chairman of the Body of Benchers and a respected past President of the NBA.

The NBA stated that Ogunde was expected to exhibit and maintain a very high standard of conduct, professionalism, and respect for the integrity of the court and the judicial process when discharging her professional duties.