The recent spectacle orchestrated by Mike Eze-Nwalie Nwogu, popularly known as Pretty Mike,deserves unequivocal condemnation.

The recent spectacle orchestrated by Mike Eze-Nwalie Nwogu, popularly known as Pretty Mike, in which individuals who are evidently not legal practitioners were dressed and presented as lawyers for the purpose of entertainment, is deeply disturbing and deserves unequivocal condemnation.

The legal profession is not a costume. It is not a prop for social media content. It is not an accessory to be worn for amusement, clout, or public theatrics.

Law is one of the oldest and noblest professions known to mankind. Every lawyer is subjected to years of rigorous academic training, professional examinations, character assessments, and ultimately called to the Bar after satisfying strict statutory and ethical requirements. The wig and gown are not mere garments. They are symbols of justice, responsibility, sacrifice, and service to society.

To reduce these symbols to elements of an entertainment stunt is not only disrespectful to thousands of hardworking legal practitioners, judges, academics, and law students, but also contributes to the gradual erosion of the dignity and sanctity of the profession.

What message are we sending to society when anyone can be dressed up as a lawyer for comic relief? What lesson are young people learning when the distinction between a trained legal practitioner and a performer is deliberately blurred for public consumption?

The danger goes beyond mere optics. Such actions trivialize a profession that citizens rely upon for the protection of their rights, the defence of their liberties, and the preservation of the rule of law. They create a culture where professional identities can be casually appropriated without consequence.

This growing trend of converting every institution, profession, and symbol of authority into content for social media engagement must be resisted. Not every form of attention is creativity. Not every publicity stunt is harmless entertainment.

The Nigerian Bar Association, the Body of Benchers, and other relevant regulatory institutions should consider issuing clear guidelines and taking appropriate steps to discourage the unauthorized use or misrepresentation of legal regalia and professional identities in public displays. Where such conduct crosses into impersonation or creates public deception, the law should be allowed to take its course.

Freedom of expression and artistic creativity must never become excuses for the desecration of professional institutions that form the foundation of our society.

The legal profession has survived for centuries because it is built on honour, discipline, and respect. Those values must not be sacrificed on the altar of cheap publicity and fleeting social media applause.

- Ayoola Osanyintola, LL.b, B.l

   MJS PARTNERS

   2026