TDThe Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) has suspended prominent constitutional lawyer, Mike Ozekhome, from using the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) pending the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings against him.
The decision was announced in a statement issued on Thursday by the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court and Secretary of the LPPC, Kabir Akanbi, following the committee’s 173rd General Meeting held on June 23, 2026.
What Prompted the Suspension?
Available reports indicate that the suspension is linked to criminal allegations of forgery, impersonation, false pretence and the use of allegedly false documents in a disputed London property case.
The allegations stem from claims that Ozekhome used a forged Nigerian passport and other documents in proceedings concerning ownership of a property at 79 Randall Avenue, London.
In January 2026, the Federal Government, through the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), filed charges against Ozekhome.
The government accused him of presenting allegedly forged documents to support a claim of ownership of the UK property.
Prosecutors alleged that he knowingly used a passport bearing the name “Shani Tali” and other documents believed to be false.
Although the Attorney-General of the Federation later withdrew the initial three-count forgery charge in February 2026 for further review, the underlying allegations did not disappear.
Subsequent court records indicate that an amended case involving multiple counts of conspiracy, forgery, impersonation and false pretence remains before the courts.
Why Did the LPPC Act?
The LPPC has the statutory authority to suspend or withdraw the SAN rank where a holder is facing serious allegations of professional misconduct.
While the committee has not publicly released the full details of the petition against Ozekhome, legal sources indicate that the ongoing criminal proceedings and allegations of document forgery were central to the disciplinary action.
What Happens Next?
The suspension is temporary and remains in effect pending the outcome of disciplinary proceedings before the LPPC.
Ozekhome retains the right to defend himself against the allegations.
Depending on the findings, the committee may restore his SAN rank or impose further sanctions.
The development marks one of the most significant disciplinary actions taken against a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in recent years.
