By Sharon Akuboh
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity and Justice (CCSG-PSGEJ) has commended the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) for dismissing a petition filed against the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
In a press statement issued in Abuja on March 16, 2026, the coalition described the LPDC’s ruling, referenced BB/LPDC/1954/2026, as a victory for the rule of law and professional integrity within Nigeria’s legal system.
The petition, filed by lawyer John Aikpokpo-Martins, was dismissed by the disciplinary committee at the preliminary stage.
National Coordinator of the coalition, Comrade James Okoronkwo, praised the LPDC panel led by Umeh Kalu, SAN, for what he described as a firm and principled decision.
According to Okoronkwo, the committee’s action prevented what he called an attempt to misuse the legal profession for political purposes.
He said the panel acted correctly by declining to entertain a petition it considered procedurally defective and lacking jurisdiction.
Okoronkwo further noted that the petitioner addressed the complaint to the wrong statutory body, describing the move as a significant professional error.
He said the mistake suggested that the petition may have been filed in haste rather than as part of a genuine quest for justice.
The coalition also called on the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Body of Benchers to examine what it described as a growing trend of frivolous petitions that could undermine the reputation of the legal profession.
Okoronkwo urged legal authorities to take appropriate action against individuals who submit unmeritorious complaints to disciplinary bodies.
The group also reaffirmed its support for the Deputy Speaker and encouraged him to remain focused on his legislative responsibilities, including initiatives aimed at promoting industrial growth and strengthening national security.