By Kudirat Habeeb
Some legal practitioners have expressed support for the Council of Legal Education’s warning against the wearing of wigs and gowns by Bar candidates before their official ‘Call to the Bar’.
The council frowned at the development, hence prohibited Bar candidates from wearing the official court attire for pre-call photoshoots.
The lawyers spoke in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Amuwo Odofin Lawyers’ Forum on Friday in Lagos.
Reacting, Mr Jude Nwabacho, a lawyer, described the practice as unethical.
According to him, bar candidates wearing wigs and gowns before being called is akin to putting the cart before the horse.
On her part, Grace Ezeruaku, said the wig and gown symbolised recognition as a legal practitioner and therefore, should only be worn after the call to bar and administration of the oath.
She said the attire was a privilege conferred through due process and should not be used before fulfilling the necessary requirements.
Similarly, Ndidi Abata said the tradition should be respected and strictly adhered to.
She said wigs and gowns were meant to be worn on the day of the call and not days or weeks earlier, for photographs.
Also speaking, Chairman of the forum, Mr Chris Aghaonu, described the wig and gown as one of the enduring symbols of the legal profession.
According to him, the profession’s traditions must not be undermined, noting that preserving established practices helps in maintaining the dignity and honour associated with the legal profession.
Speaking on the forum’s general meeting, Aghaonu said it was convened to review the forum’s activities over the past year and deliberate on initiatives to promote the welfare of members.
He attributed the forum’s achievements to the cooperation and commitment of its members.
The chairman also pledged to continue working toward bringing justice closer to the people and promoting a more effective judicial system. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu