Why this Supreme Court ‘ban’ directive has Nigerians asking: “Are Lawyers Still Barristers?”

Supreme Court Directive Date DetailsThe development began with a memorandum issued by the Supreme Court of Nigeria following an instruction from the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere Ekun. The court directed that the word should no longer appear before the names of lawyers in official Supreme Court related communications. Reason Behind Supreme Court ActionThe Supreme Court directive reflects an attempt to maintain consistency within official legal practice. The Supreme Court directive does not change who can appear before Nigerian courts. How Lawyers May Identify Themselves Going ForwardFollowing the Supreme Court directive, lawyers dealing officially with the apex court are expected to use their names without placing “Barrister” or “Barr.”