Confusion and drama gripped the Orhuwhorun Magistrates’ Court in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State on Thursday, as members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Udu branch, exposed and arrested a man who had been parading himself as a lawyer.
The suspect, identified as U. T. Oghenetejiri, was caught in the act while attempting to represent a client in a criminal case. His identity quickly unraveled when he fumbled basic legal questions posed by the presiding magistrate.
Sensing trouble, Oghenetejiri bolted from the courtroom, sparking a chaotic chase that spilled into the busy Orhuwhorun market. Eyewitnesses said the fake lawyer was overpowered by NBA members and court staff who pursued him until he was cornered and apprehended.
Court insiders revealed that Oghenetejiri had been a regular face in courts across the area for months, confidently posing as a legal practitioner. However, his shaky arguments, vague responses about his law school background, and suspicious dealings had long raised red flags.
NBA Udu Chairman, Edmund Odohisi, confirmed that the association had received repeated reports about a fake lawyer operating within the area. “We could not fold our hands while someone desecrates the profession. Once he appeared again at Orhuwhorun Court, we moved in to stop him,” Odohisi stated.
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Upon his arrest, incriminating evidence was discovered, including forged deeds of transfer, a counterfeit NBA stamp and seal, and other falsified legal documents. Investigations further revealed that Oghenetejiri had opened an office on Jakpa Road in Effurun, where he allegedly duped unsuspecting clients by preparing fake legal papers.
Official checks confirmed that the suspect never attended law school and is not listed on the Supreme Court roll of legal practitioners, making his practice entirely fraudulent.
The NBA’s swift move has been widely praised by lawyers across Delta State, with many calling for tighter regulations to prevent impostors from infiltrating Nigeria’s justice system.
The Udu NBA has urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious practitioners, stressing its resolve to protect the dignity of the legal profession.
As of press time, Oghenetejiri is in police custody at the Ovwian Police Station and is expected to be arraigned soon.
