The Nigerian Law School has issued a strong warning to all graduating students, cautioning them against wearing the traditional barrister's wig and gown or presenting themselves as qualified legal practitioners before they are officially called to the Nigerian Bar.
In a statement released ahead of the upcoming Call to Bar ceremonies, the institution emphasized that no candidate is legally recognized as a lawyer until they have successfully completed all required procedures and have been formally admitted to the Bar by the Body of Benchers.
According to the Law School, the warning follows a growing trend of students wearing legal regalia for photographs, social media posts, and public celebrations before the official ceremony. Authorities described the practice as inappropriate and capable of misleading the public.
The school stressed that the barrister's wig and gown are symbols of the legal profession and should only be worn by individuals who have been duly called to the Bar. Candidates were also reminded not to describe themselves as lawyers or engage in any activity that could suggest they have already been admitted to legal practice.
The Nigerian Law School warned that any violation of the directive could attract disciplinary measures and may affect a candidate's eligibility or standing during the Call to Bar process.
The institution urged all prospective candidates to uphold the dignity, ethics, and traditions of the legal profession by complying fully with the directive until the official admission ceremony is concluded.
TwisdicInfo Insight: The warning reflects the legal profession's commitment to preserving its ethics and integrity. While graduation is a significant milestone, only the official Call to Bar confers the legal authority to practice as a barrister and solicitor in Nigeria. The directive also serves as a reminder that professional titles and regalia carry legal and ethical responsibilities that must be respected.