LPPC Suspends Mike Ozekhome’s SAN Rank Pending Disciplinary Proceedings

Prominent constitutional lawyer and human rights advocate, Professor Mike Ozekhome, has been suspended from using the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) by the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC).

The decision was taken at the LPPC’s 173rd General Meeting held on June 23, 2026. According to a statement issued by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court and Secretary of the LPPC, Kabir Akanbi, the suspension is pending the final determination of disciplinary proceedings currently before the committee’s Disciplinary and Ethics Sub-Committee, as well as other related proceedings.

The LPPC explained that the action was taken in accordance with Paragraph 26(6) of the Guidelines for the Conferment of the Rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. The committee stated that the suspension is intended to protect the integrity, dignity, and prestige of the SAN rank while the matters under review are being considered.

As part of the directive, Ozekhome has been barred from presenting or holding himself out as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria until the disciplinary proceedings are concluded. The committee emphasized its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of ethics, integrity, and discipline within Nigeria’s legal profession.

The development comes amid ongoing legal controversies involving the senior lawyer, including proceedings linked to allegations surrounding a disputed London property. Ozekhome has consistently maintained his innocence regarding the allegations against him, while the relevant cases remain before the courts and disciplinary bodies.

The suspension represents a significant development within Nigeria’s legal community, as disciplinary actions involving holders of the highly respected SAN title are relatively uncommon. The final outcome will depend on the decisions reached by the LPPC’s disciplinary processes and any related legal proceedings.