CEPCCN: JUSTICE WITHOUT FAVOURITISM, ACCOUNTABILITY WITHOUT PERSECUTION. Equal justice, professional integrity, and the rule of law for all.

CHRISTIAN ELDERS AND PROFESSIONALS CONSULTATIVE COUNCIL OF NIGERIA (CEPCCN)

“Champions of Professionalism and Wisdom in Christ.”

INSTITUTIONAL COMMENTARY

PROFESSIONAL ETHICS, EQUAL JUSTICE AND THE RULE OF LAW

The Christian Elders and Professionals Consultative Council of Nigeria (CEPCCN), a non-political, non-partisan Christian consultative, advisory and professional institution, considers the cases involving Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, and Abubakar Malami, SAN, an important occasion to reflect on professional ethics, institutional consistency, due process and public confidence in Nigeria’s legal profession.

PARALLEL CONSIDERATION OF THE TWO CASES

In Ozekhome’s case, the reported suspension of his use of the SAN designation pending disciplinary proceedings raises questions about professional regulation, applicable standards and procedural safeguards.

In Malami’s case, criminal charges and property-forfeiture proceedings raise questions concerning the evidence, applicable laws and the precise legal effect of the relevant court decisions.

Although their circumstances differ, both cases must be assessed fairly, according to established procedures, credible evidence and the lawful authority of the relevant institutions.

ALLEGATIONS, FINDINGS AND CRIMINAL GUILT

An allegation is not proof, a criminal charge is not a conviction, and a professional disciplinary measure is not automatically a determination of criminal guilt.

The presumption of innocence must be respected unless guilt is established by a competent court in accordance with the law. Professional disciplinary decisions and property-forfeiture orders must likewise be accurately described according to their legal basis, terms and procedural status.

These principles apply equally to both practitioners. Neither public controversy nor professional standing should determine the outcome of legal proceedings. Equally, the presumption of innocence does not confer immunity from lawful investigation or accountability.

CEPCCN’S INSTITUTIONAL MANDATE AND POSITION

CEPCCN’s purpose is to promote ethical leadership, professional integrity, institutional accountability and public understanding of the rule of law. The Council does not exercise judicial authority, determine criminal guilt or replace the statutory functions of professional regulators and courts.

Accordingly, CEPCCN calls for fairness without favouritism, accountability without persecution, professional discipline without arbitrariness, and justice without political interference.

As an institution guided by Christian wisdom and elder statesmanship, CEPCCN advocates transparent procedures, consistent professional standards, respect for individual rights and equal protection under the law.

CONCLUSION

CEPCCN neither condemns nor defends either individual. Its position is a principled appeal for impartial institutions, accurate reporting of legal decisions and accountability governed by evidence and due process.

No one is above the law, no one is beneath its protection, and no institution should stand beyond lawful accountability.

Nigeria deserves a legal profession whose integrity inspires public confidence and strengthens constitutional order, national unity and justice for all.

Issued in the spirit of elder statesmanship, Christian wisdom, professional responsibility and the national interest.

CHRISTIAN ELDERS AND PROFESSIONALS CONSULTATIVE COUNCIL OF NIGERIA (CEPCCN)

“Champions of Professionalism and Wisdom in Christ.”