Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have launched an investigation into a suspected fake lawyer arrested in Lagos for allegedly using a forged Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) seal.
The suspect, identified as John Anoruo, was arrested on Monday, April 20, 2026, by operatives of the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the EFCC, Ikoyi, following intelligence-led investigations into questionable legal documents he allegedly submitted in the course of professional dealings.
According to the Commission, Anoruo runs a legal and educational consultancy in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State and had earlier submitted a petition dated September 22, 2025, to the EFCC on behalf of clients against the management of Global West Vessel Specialist Nigeria Limited.
However, further scrutiny of the documents raised suspicion after investigators discovered that both the petition and a subsequent Letter of Withdrawal dated March 5, 2026, carried a Nigerian Bar Association seal that was allegedly forged.
The EFCC, in a statement shared via its official social media platforms, disclosed that the suspect later admitted to obtaining the seal from an undisclosed business centre in Lagos.
During interrogation, Anoruo reportedly claimed he holds a Law degree obtained in 2018 from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, through evening classes, but confessed that he did not attend the Nigerian Law School.
A senior EFCC investigator, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the discovery as “a serious case of professional impersonation with potential legal consequences.”
“What we have uncovered is not just document forgery, but a deliberate attempt to misrepresent oneself as a qualified legal practitioner. This undermines the integrity of the legal profession,”the official said.
Another source within the Commission noted that the investigation is ongoing to determine whether the suspect acted alone or is part of a wider network involved in document forgery and professional impersonation.
“We are expanding our investigation to trace the source of the forged seal and identify possible collaborators. No stone will be left unturned,” the source added.
The EFCC further stated that the suspect will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
“The Commission remains committed to sanitising the system and ensuring that individuals who attempt to deceive the public through fraudulent practices are brought to justice,” the EFCC noted via its official social media handle.
