The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested a 40-year-old man, Ugwumba Francis Enyinnaya, for allegedly posing as a qualified lawyer and practising law for more than 11 years without being called to the Nigerian Bar.
The suspect was reportedly apprehended following a petition accusing him of obtaining ₦650,000 from a resident of Ohaozara Local Government Area under false pretences.
According to a report by Nigerian Tribune, the petitioner, identified as Chukwu David, alleged that Enyinnaya collected the money in March 2026 after claiming he could facilitate approval for the naming of a street in Ohaozara.
David reportedly said the suspect failed to fulfil the promise and disappeared after receiving the payment. The development prompted him to petition the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State.
During police interrogation, Enyinnaya reportedly admitted that he was not a qualified lawyer.
A search of his apartment allegedly led to the recovery of several items suspected to have been used to support his claims of being a legal practitioner.
The recovered items reportedly included a forged Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) seal, a large portrait of the suspect wearing a barrister’s wig and gown, and purported Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) and Master of Laws (LL.M) certificates bearing the name of Enugu State University of Science and Technology.
Police operatives also reportedly recovered a barrister’s wig and robe, alongside bundles of court judgments, powers of attorney and deeds of conveyance allegedly prepared for clients over the past 11 years.
The discoveries have raised concerns about the possibility that unsuspecting members of the public may have relied on the suspect for legal services without knowing his alleged lack of professional qualification.
Confirming the arrest, the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, CP Hope Urunwa Okafor, praised the detectives involved in uncovering the alleged impersonation.
The police spokesperson, SP Joshua Ukandu, disclosed in a statement that the suspect’s activities may have affected several individuals who engaged his services over the years.
The police commissioner also urged residents to exercise caution when seeking legal representation and to verify the credentials of anyone presenting themselves as a lawyer.
Members of the public were advised to confirm the professional status of legal practitioners through the appropriate Nigerian Bar Association branch before retaining their services.
The Ebonyi State Police Command confirmed that Enyinnaya has been charged to court in connection with the allegations.
The case highlights the importance of verifying legal practitioners’ credentials before entrusting them with legal documents, court proceedings or financial transactions.
Members of the public are encouraged to seek legal assistance from properly qualified practitioners to reduce the risk of falling victim to alleged fraud or unauthorised legal practice.
The allegations against the suspect remain subject to judicial determination.
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