Former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, has charged newly called lawyers in Nigeria to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, integrity, and professionalism, describing these values as the foundation upon which the legal profession derives its honour and public confidence.
Bello gave the charge on Thursday in Abuja during the Call to Bar celebration held in honour of Barr. Lubabatu Tijani, daughter of the Kogi State Accountant-General, Dr. Habibat Tijani Onumoko.
Addressing the new wigs, the former governor congratulated them on attaining one of the most significant milestones in their professional journey, noting that being called to the Nigerian Bar is not merely an academic accomplishment but the beginning of a lifelong commitment to justice, fairness, and service to humanity.
Bello who also attended the same event in honour of Taibat Abubakar Yahaya , the daughter of former Okene Local government Chairman, Alhaji Yahaya Karaku charged young legal practitioners that the legal profession occupies a unique position in every democratic society and that the actions of lawyers have far-reaching implications for the rule of law, good governance, and national development.
According to Bello, the legal profession is built on trust, credibility, and unwavering respect for ethical principles, urging the new lawyers never to compromise their integrity in pursuit of wealth, influence, or personal ambition.
He emphasized that honesty, diligence, discipline, and professional responsibility should remain their guiding principles throughout their careers.
"The legal profession is one of immense responsibility. Society looks up to lawyers as defenders of justice, protectors of constitutional rights, and custodians of the rule of law. As you begin this journey, let integrity define your practice and let justice always remain your watchword," he said.
Bello further described the judiciary as the enduring hope of the ordinary citizen, stressing that millions of Nigerians depend on the courts for justice, protection, and the preservation of their fundamental rights.
He therefore urged the newly admitted lawyers to contribute meaningfully to strengthening public confidence in the nation's justice system by remaining committed to truth, fairness, and ethical advocacy.
While acknowledging that lawyers owe professional duties both to the courts and to their clients, Bello stressed that their broader obligation is to society as guardians of justice and defenders of civility.
He also advised them to continually improve themselves through learning, mentorship, and adherence to global best practices, noting that excellence in legal practice is sustained through continuous professional development.
Turning to the celebrant, Bello warmly congratulated Barr. Lubabatu Tijani on her successful Call to the Nigerian Bar, describing her achievement as the reward for years of dedication, perseverance, and academic discipline. He equally congratulated her mother, Dr. Habibat Tijani Onumoko, and the entire Tijani family for the remarkable milestone, commending the Accountant-General for the quality of parental upbringing and moral values reflected in the character and accomplishments of her children.
According to Bello, the success of Barr. Lubabatu is not only a source of pride to her family but also an inspiration to young Nigerians, particularly women, aspiring to build successful careers in the legal profession.
On politics, Bello urged the people to work hard for the success of All Progressives Congress candidates in all elections in 2017. He said the incumbent president Bola Ahmed Tinubu will win his second term election convincingly stressing that the current administration’s reform policies and infrastructural development remains clear evidence to progressives governance.
Bello who described Alhaji Yahaya Karaku as a politician that he has so much respect for. He said Yahaya Karaku has been a strong political associate that has always been there for him. On a light note, the former governor stated that “they may deny you ticket but be assured that you always have me at all times”.
He said the 2027 elections from the presidency down to the lowest contesting positions will be won by the APC stating that the party has delivered and will continue to deliver good governance to the people.
The ceremony attracted eminent personalities from the legal profession, government, and the judiciary.
Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, was represented by his Deputy, His Excellency Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, while the Kogi State Head of Service and other senior government officials were also in attendance.
Also present were the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Hon. Justice J. Majebi, represented by the President of the Kogi State Customary Court of Appeal, His Lordship Justice S. M. J. Usman, as well as respected legal luminaries including M. A. Aliyu, SAN, Aliyu Saiki, SAN, distinguished members of the Bench and Bar, family members, friends, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the newest member of the legal profession.
Amongst the dignitaries that graced the occasion of the Call to bar Ceremony of Taibat A. Yahaya were former governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Capt Idris Wada, former deputy governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Dr Philip Omeiza Salawu, Esq. and host of others.
The events served not only as a celebration of academic and professional achievement but also as a reminder of the enormous responsibility that accompanies the privilege of wearing the wig and gown. Bello's message reflected the expectation that the next generation of lawyers must remain steadfast in defending justice, upholding the rule of law, and preserving the integrity and nobility of the legal profession.
ONOGWU Muhammed, Esq.
09/07/2026
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