Osinbajo decries rot in legal profession, urges reform, tech integration

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has warned that the nation’s legal profession is on the brink of collapse due to corruption, ethical breaches, and resistance to modernization.

Speaking at the 2025 Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, held at the Nigerian Content Tower in Bayelsa State, Osinbajo expressed deep concern over the widespread perception that both lawyers and judges are complicit in corrupt practices, citing instances where legal practitioners allegedly serve as intermediaries for bribery in the judiciary.

“The legal profession is crumbling under the weight of corruption, ethical violations, and poor standards,” he said. “Stories of lawyers facilitating bribes for judicial officers are rife. The damage to public trust is profound.”

Osinbajo emphasized the urgent need for reform, stressing that the legal sector must embrace technological advancements and rethink its foundational practices. He noted that artificial intelligence and globalisation are reshaping the legal landscape, with AI already taking over tasks such as legal research, drafting, and analysis.

“Our profession needs a new vision and a new set of tools,” he said. “AI is already outperforming humans in routine legal tasks. Lawyers must now focus on areas machines cannot replicate—ethical reasoning, client advocacy, and complex judgment.”

He called for a revamp of legal education to include cross-disciplinary training in law, data science, AI, design thinking, and privacy law, urging law faculties to equip students with skills relevant to the future.

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, who declared the event open, echoed similar concerns. While acknowledging fears that AI may displace jobs, he maintained that the legal profession must adapt to the dynamic nature of society. He also praised the legal community for playing a vital role in his emergence as governor through judicial processes.

NBA Yenagoa Branch Chairman, Somina Johnbull, thanked the dignitaries in attendance and expressed optimism that the discussions during Law Week would help elevate legal practice across Nigeria.