The Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) has suspended a lawyer, Benjamin Obiora, for two years over allegations of professional misconduct linked to fraud and abuse of judicial processes in Indorama host communities in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The case stemmed from a petition filed by Benjamin Ngokanya, who accused Obiora of incitement, interference, and financial impropriety while serving as legal counsel to the communities.
The committee found that Obiora had initiated a case at the Rivers State High Court before Justice Ben White, seeking to restrain or overturn an existing judgment of the Court of Appeal. It described the action as a serious procedural breach, stressing that a lower court lacks the authority to interfere with decisions of an appellate court.
Reacting to the ruling, counsel to the petitioner, Joseph Ameh, said the decision reflects the weight of evidence presented before the disciplinary panel.
The Paramount Ruler of Okerewa Community, Eteeh Osaro, also welcomed the verdict, saying it reinforces professional standards within the legal system.
Community stakeholders, including Women Leader Emereowa Nzidee, Youth President John Kanwi, and Aji Osarogoda, said the sanction would help curb fraudulent practices and promote transparency.
However, when contacted, Obiora said he is aware of the decision but insisted it cannot take effect until all legal processes are concluded. He also maintained that the allegations against him are linked to his efforts to expose what he described as institutional fraud.
