Gadzama Urges Resolution in Osigwe-Okutepa Dispute

Joe Kyari Gadzama, a senior advocate and pioneer chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Section on Public Interest Development Law (NBA SPIDEL), has called for an immediate resolution to the ongoing dispute between senior lawyers Afam Osigwe and Jibrin Okutepa. Gadzama expressed concern that the public exchange between the two lawyers is deepening divisions within the NBA, particularly as the association prepares for the 2026 national elections.

He described the situation as unfortunate and warned that rising tensions could damage the public image of the legal profession. Gadzama urged both parties to exercise restraint and embrace dialogue, emphasizing the need for statesmanship rather than escalation.

He noted that the matter requires senior members of the bar to intervene and broker peace. Gadzama also cautioned against using the disciplinary process as a political tool and expressed hope that the judiciary would provide clarity on the future of NBA elections.