Why My Son Would Not Pursue A Career In Law, Despite Being A Lawyer Myself

by Dauda Yahaya Kana, Esq

During our university days, many of us harbored noble aspirations — to advocate for the oppressed, uphold truth, equity, and justice, and safeguard the constitutional rights and liberties enshrined in Chapter Four of the 1999 Constitution. However, upon becoming lawyers, reality set in: truth became our greatest adversary, oppression became our hallmark, and the voice of the oppressor grew louder.

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Presently, institutions designed to dispense justice, including courts and law enforcement agencies, have become mere caricatures of their intended purpose. In practice, it is no longer the law or the Constitution that dictates outcomes, but rather connections, power, and wealth. One is either complicit in the corrupt system or marginalized for daring to speak the truth. This truth, once the cornerstone of our professional ethics and identity, is gradually eroding. Every lawyer has experienced instances of compromise, disillusionment, and helplessness.

The quality of judgments, legal reasoning, and precedents are now frequently influenced by politics rather than principle. This sends a disturbing message: the Judiciary may no longer be the last bastion of hope for the common man. When that time arrives, those of us responsible for constructing this broken system — from lawyers to judges and every operative involved — will be the first to bear the brunt of its collapse. This is because, by continually pushing Nigerians to the limit, we will eventually provoke a backlash.

I recently had a deeply troubling experience. A lawyer, well-compensated by his client, conspired with others to deprive that very client of his land. I could not stand idly by and witness this injustice. I approached the client and revealed the truth, as I simply could not stomach such unscrupulous behavior.

The legal profession is, regrettably, part of the problem in this country. Until we begin prioritizing truth over financial gain, justice over convenience, and ethics over greed, genuine change will remain elusive. This painful realization is why my son will not pursue a career in law, despite my own profession as a lawyer.