EFCC Threatens To Prosecute Lawyers Charging Clients In Dollars

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned lawyers to avoid charging clients in foreign currencies, or face potential prosecution.

The Acting Zonal Director, Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, ACE I Bawa Usman Kaltungo, issued the warning over the weekend during a meeting with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Task Force on Illegal Practice of Law, at his office.

The delegation, led by Moshood Abiola, was on a courtesy visit to the Commission.

Kaltungo expressed concern over alleged illegal and unethical practices within the legal profession, emphasising that the EFCC would not hesitate to prosecute practitioners found guilty.

He specifically criticised the current practice of some legal practitioners charging clients in foreign currencies, warning that such practices would attract the anti-corruption agency’s attention.

“The Commission would not hesitate to prosecute anyone found culpable,” he stated.

The EFCC chief affirmed that the Commission would continue collaborating with relevant professional bodies to address practices that could undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s legal profession and financial system.

This warning comes amidst existing professional regulations governing legal fees in Nigeria, including the Legal Practitioners Remuneration Order, 2023, and the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners, which mandate lawyers to adhere to established remuneration guidelines.

The EFCC has previously warned businesses operating within Nigeria, including schools, hotels, supermarkets, and other service providers, against pricing or demanding payment for goods and services solely in foreign currencies.

The current warning broadens the Commission’s concerns to the legal sector, alerting lawyers that charging in foreign currency may have legal implications beyond professional ethics, especially if it questions compliance with Nigerian financial laws.

Kaltungo called on stakeholders in the legal community to uphold ethical standards and ensure their practices comply with the law.