Free Stamp and Seal wasn’t stopped by Maikyau, Don’t Mislead Lawyers- Fiery Ikeja Lawyer, Victor Ariavie Esq Counters NBA GS
In a sharp response to recent statements made by the General Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, Ikeja-based lawyer Victor Ariavie has refuted claims regarding the discontinuation of complimentary stamps and seals for lawyers.
Dr. Ojibara had earlier stated during a “Firechat” Zoom session with lawyers that the policy of issuing free stamps and seals upon payment of Bar Practising Fees was stopped under the administration of YC Maikyau SAN. However, Mr. Ariavie countered this assertion, stating that complimentary stamps and seals were still issued to lawyers during Maikyau’s presidency and that it was the current administration of Afam Osigwe SAN that abolished the policy.
In his statement, Ariavie said:
“This is not correct. As at 2024, complimentary stamps were given. If there’s one policy that has had a far-reaching effect and benefit on the larger membership of the Nigerian Bar Association, it is the introduction of the free or complimentary stamps and seals for members upon prompt payment of annual Bar Practising Fees. Another component of that policy is the automatic eligibility for death assurance cover for members. This policy galvanized many members into prompt payment of Bar Practising Fees. Many who were not paying before then started complying. It is without a doubt that this policy expanded the compliance net of members of the NBA.”
Ariavie further emphasized that the administration of YC Maikyau SAN upheld this policy until 2024. He recounted receiving his complimentary stamps and seals in February 2024 after making an early payment of his Bar Practising Fees for the year.
“It is therefore befuddling for anyone to say the policy was abolished or discontinued during the administration of YC Maikyau SAN. This statement is misleading, and I suggest it should be retracted,” Ariavie added.
The issue of complimentary stamps and seals remains a contentious topic within the NBA, as many lawyers have expressed dissatisfaction over the policy’s abolition and the recent increase in the price of stamps and seals under the current leadership.
