NBA Urged to Investigate Yakubu Dogara Over Alleged Electoral Malpractice Admission

By Khalid Idris Bauchi 

A group of concerned legal practitioners, Concerned Lawyers of Integrity and Justice, has petitioned the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to investigate and sanction former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Barrister Yakubu Dogara, over alleged electoral malpractice.

The petition, signed by convener Barrister Hussaini Saraki, expresses deep concern over Dogara's recent statement accusing Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, of betrayal toward the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Dogara claimed that Wike played a key role in financing Bala Mohammed's 2019 gubernatorial election, raising serious ethical and legal concerns.

According to the petitioners, Dogara's remarks suggest his involvement in facilitating undue political influence, which may constitute electoral malpractice. They argue that his statements amount to an admission of actions that violate Nigeria's electoral laws and the professional ethics expected of legal practitioners.

The petition cites the Electoral Act 2022, which prohibits undue influence and manipulation of electoral processes, and the Rules of Professional Conduct (RPC) 2007, which mandate lawyers to uphold justice and refrain from actions that compromise the integrity of the legal profession.

The lawyers urge the NBA to launch an investigation into Dogara's statements and impose sanctions if found guilty, including suspension or revocation of his legal practicing certificate. They warn that failure to address Dogara's alleged admission could undermine public trust in the legal and electoral systems.

"The credibility of our democracy and legal profession is at stake. The NBA must take urgent action to restore confidence in the rule of law," the petitioners stated.