The Council of Legal Education (CLE), the governing body of the Nigerian Law School, has withdrawn the prize awarded to the institution’s best graduating student in professional ethics following the circulation of a photograph deemed inconsistent with professional standards.
The decision was contained in a statement dated August 19 and signed by Aderonke Osho, Secretary to the Council and Director of Administration.
According to the council, it reviewed the circumstances surrounding the award and subsequently approved its withdrawal after the photograph of the recipient surfaced online.
“The council considered the circumstances surrounding the award of the prize for the best graduating student in professional ethics and approved the withdrawal of the prize from the recipient,” the statement said.
The council said the photograph showed the recipient wearing attire it considered inconsistent with the professional standards and decorum expected of students of the Nigerian Law School.
The CLE also approved sanctions against two students found culpable of indiscipline-related misconduct.
It reiterated its commitment to enforcing discipline, professionalism and appropriate conduct among students undergoing legal training.
Although the council did not disclose the identity of the affected graduate or the specific graduating set, reports identified Ogechi Ifezie as the 2026 best graduating student in professional ethics.
Ifezie was among the students honoured during the 2026 Call to Bar ceremonies held between July 7 and 10 at the Body of Benchers Complex in Abuja.
The development underscores the Council of Legal Education’s emphasis on professional conduct and ethical standards beyond academic performance among students of the Nigerian Law School.
