LPDC dismisses petition to revoke Dele Farotimi’s law license

The Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) has dismissed a petition by Emmanuel Chambers, the law firm of Chief Afe Babalola SAN, seeking to revoke the legal practising license of lawyer and author, Tomilola Farotimi, popularly known as Dele Farotimi.

The petition, filed by Ola Faro of Emmanuel Chambers, accused Farotimi of criminal defamation and professional misconduct, citing claims in his book, Nigeria and Criminal Justice System. The book allegedly contained defamatory statements against the Supreme Court and the legal profession.

In its report, the LPDC ruled that the alleged infractions were committed in Farotimi’s capacity as an author, not during his legal practice. The committee determined it lacked jurisdiction to address matters relating to publications and advised the complainants to seek redress in a regular court.

Justice Isaq Usman Bello, Chairman of the LPDC, stated that the petition could not proceed due to jurisdictional limitations.

The contentious material in Farotimi’s book reportedly referenced suit number SC/146/2006 between Major Muritala Gbadamosi Eletu and HRH Oba Tijani Akinloye and others, alleging bribery, corruption, and unethical practices within the judiciary and the legal profession.

Emmanuel Chambers accused Farotimi of distorting facts, disrespecting fellow lawyers, and engaging in activities that obstructed justice. Specific grievances included criticism of a Supreme Court judgment that impacted multiple residential estates and subsequent legal proceedings challenging the apex court’s decision.

The Chambers argued that Farotimi’s actions violated sections of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners 2023 and demanded that his name be struck off the Roll of Legal Practitioners. The LPDC, however, declined the request, citing its inability to adjudicate on issues outside its jurisdiction.

The LPDC’s report stated: “The publication is an intellectual property and not a conduct or action committed while practicing as a Legal Practitioner. All aggrieved parties who find the publication ‘defamatory’ should ventilate their grievances through the regular courts.”