EFCC warns Nigerian lawyers against charging fees in US dollars

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a warning to legal practitioners in Nigeria, stating that demanding professional fees in US dollars is illegal and unethical. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed that the commission has already identified two specific cases where lawyers were found to have charged fees in foreign currency.

The directive emphasizes that the Naira is the only legal tender in the country. Such practices violate national financial regulations and contradict guidelines set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), which aims to stabilize the local currency and manage foreign exchange liquidity.

Lawyers found to be charging in dollars face potential criminal prosecution by the EFCC and disciplinary action from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), including possible suspension or disbarment. Additionally, officials noted that some lawyers have allegedly misused the EFCC's name to justify overcharging clients. While lawyers are free to set their own service rates, they must comply with the Legal Practitioners’ Remuneration Order 2023 and settle all domestic transactions in Naira.