In the legal profession, the name Prof. Mike Agbedor Abu  Ozekhome, SAN, CON, OFR resonate with success, integrity, and commitment to human rights. He is an esteemed Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) that has have carved out a remarkable career, earning accolades for his tireless advocacy and landmark cases. However, behind the veneer of his achievements lies a concerning trend: the low remuneration of young lawyers in his firm. Reports indicate that young lawyers in his firm receive meagre salaries ranging from N30,000 to N50,000 (Thirty to Fifty Thousand Naira) as of 2023.

While it is acknowledged that some law firms may struggle to provide competitive wages, it is disheartening to learn that a Senior Advocate of such esteemed stature seemingly lack the financial capacity to offer more decent compensation. This raises questions about the fairness and equity within the legal profession, particularly concerning the treatment of junior lawyers.

The purpose of highlighting this issue is not to diminish the contributions of Ozekhome but to advocate for fair and equitable treatment of young lawyers. These young legal professionals, often burdened with cumbersome living expenses, deserve to be adequately compensated for their hard work and dedication.

It is commendable to see less affluent employers in the legal field who prioritize paying modest wages and refrain from exploiting their employees due to economic constraints. However, it is imperative for Senior Advocates who have the means to do so to reassess their compensation policies and ensure that young lawyers are fairly rewarded for their contributions.

In conclusion, while Ozekhome and other Senior Advocates have rightfully earned their place as pillars of the legal community, it is essential to address the disparity in remuneration within their firms. By advocating for fair wages and equitable treatment of young lawyers, we uphold the principles of justice and integrity that are the cornerstone of the legal profession.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we will delve into a list of other prominent Senior Advocates who, despite their wealth, pay their employees very meagre wages.

Talatu Balogun is an investigative journalist who is keen on using her voice to promote justice and equity.