The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment to cease the signing and execution of a trade partnership with the United Kingdom (UK), permitting UK lawyers to practice in Nigeria.
In a motion brought forward by 49 lawmakers on Tuesday, attention was drawn to recent reports and public outcry regarding an alleged economic and trade agreement between the UK and Nigeria. This agreement purportedly aims to explore new opportunities in critical sectors such as energy, legal, and financial services.
The House highlighted the heightened concerns surrounding the trade deal, particularly in the legal realm, which seemed to favor the UK disproportionately at the expense of qualified Nigerian lawyers. The deal proposed allowing UK lawyers to practice in Nigeria without reciprocity.
Members of the Green Chamber expressed apprehension that without prompt investigation and resolution of these concerns, Nigeria might unwittingly enter into an agreement with terms and conditions that could ultimately be unfavorable to the country and the interests of Nigerians.
Consequently, the House has tasked its Committee on Treaties, Protocols, and Agreements with conducting an inquiry into the matter and reporting back within four weeks.
