EFCC Arrests 55-Year-Old for Impersonation as Lawyer, Forged NBA Seal
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, Ikoyi, has arrested John Anoruo, a 55‑year‑old man, over allegations of impersonating a legal practitioner and possessing a forged Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) seal.
Anoruo, who runs a legal and educational consultancy in Ikorodu, Lagos, was apprehended on April 20, 2026, following investigations into documents he submitted in a dispute involving Global West Vessel Specialist Nigeria Limited.
According to EFCC officials, inconsistencies were detected in petitions and withdrawal letters filed by the suspect, both of which bore a questionable NBA seal. Verification confirmed the seal was not authentic. Further inquiries revealed that a Letter of Withdrawal dated March 5, 2026, also carried the same forged seal.
During interrogation, Anoruo allegedly confessed to obtaining the seal from a business centre in Lagos. He further claimed to hold a law degree from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (2018) but admitted he never attended the Nigerian Law School, a mandatory requirement for legal practice in Nigeria.
Legal practitioners emphasize that attendance at the Nigerian Law School and formal call to the bar are indispensable prerequisites for lawful representation of clients.
The EFCC has confirmed that Anoruo will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations, underscoring the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the legal profession and prosecuting acts of forgery and impersonation.
