NBA says stamp and seal policy still valid despite court ruling
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has clarified that its Stamp and Seal policy remains in force, despite recent reports suggesting otherwise. The association explained that a Federal High Court judgment does not override the Supreme Court’s previous decision upholding the policy. In a statement signed by Mobolaji Ojibara, the NBA reassured legal practitioners and the public that the policy is still operational. The NBA emphasized the importance of the Stamp and Seal regime in maintaining professional standards and protecting the public.
What we know
- The NBA stated that the Federal High Court judgment did not invalidate the Stamp and Seal policy or its Continuing Professional Development policy.
- The association referenced a Supreme Court judgment in the case involving the All Progressives Congress and General Bello Sarkin Yaki, which upheld the policy.
- The Supreme Court ruled that documents filed without the NBA Stamp and Seal are not automatically void and can be regularised by affixing the approved stamp and seal.
- The NBA stressed that Supreme Court decisions are binding on all lower courts in Nigeria.
- The association reassured lawyers and the public that the Stamp and Seal policy remains enforceable to regulate legal practice and protect against impersonation.
