NBA Bauchi warns new lawyers against over-reliance on AI
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Bauchi Branch, has urged newly inducted lawyers to exercise caution in the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for legal practice.
Speaking at an orientation programme for new wigs on Tuesday the Branch Chairman, Rabiu Garba said while AI offers convenience,it cannot replace critical legal reasoning.
He warned that over-reliance could compromise the profession’s ethics and integrity.
“Even advanced countries are trying to do away with AI in legal practice,”
“AI is not always reliable; most times, what it provides is not applicable in legal contexts.
“We encourage lawyers to rely on our rich jurisprudence and legal resources instead,” he noted.
Garba described the programme as the first of its kind by the branch, designed to orient newly called lawyers on the rudiments of practice and equip them for professional growth.
The Chairman pledged that his administration would sustain such capacity-building initiatives to enhance professional development among members.
Mr Lawal Hussein, former branch chairman, recounted how AI once gave him misleading information, which could have caused serious embarrassment.
“AI can help, but be careful. Some lawyers have been punished for citing fake AI-generated cases,” he cautioned.
Dr. Ibrahim Danjuma, immediate past Chairman of the branch, emphasised the need for Continuing legal education to keep lawyers competent and relevant.
Also, Hon. Justice Muhyiddeen of the Sharia Court of Appeal advised the young lawyers to take their careers seriously,
Former Attorney General Barrister Ibrahim Umar urged them to remain humble, studious, and seek proper mentorship.
