The Council of Legal Education (CLE) of the Nigerian Law School has withdrawn the prize awarded to the best graduating student in professional ethics following the circulation of an “inappropriate” photograph of the recipient online.
Gatekeepers News reports that Aderonke Osho, Secretary to the Council and Director of Administration, said the decision was reached after the council considered the circumstances surrounding the award.
In a statement dated Wednesday, August 19, Osho said the attire worn by the recipient in the photograph was considered inconsistent with the professional standards and decorum expected of students of the Nigerian Law School.
“The council considered the circumstances surrounding the award of the prize for the best graduating student in professional ethics and approved the withdrawal of the prize from the recipient, arising from the circulation of a photograph online depicting the recipient in attire considered inconsistent with the professional standards and decorum,” Osho said.
The council also approved sanctions against two students found culpable of indiscipline-related misconduct.
It reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards of discipline, professionalism and proper conduct among students of the Nigerian Law School.
Although the council did not identify the recipient or specify the graduating set involved, reports indicate that Ogechi Ifezie was named the 2026 best graduating student in professional ethics.
Ifezie was among the students honoured during the 2026 Call to Bar ceremonies held from July 7 to 10 at the Body of Benchers Complex in Abuja.
