The Council of Legal Education (CLE), the governing body of the Nigerian Law School, has withdrawn a prize awarded to the institution’s best graduating student in professional ethics over an “inappropriate” photograph circulated online.

In a statement dated August 19 and signed by Aderonke Osho, Secretary to the Council and Director of Administration, the CLE said the photograph showed the recipient wearing attire it considered inconsistent with professional standards and decorum.

The council said it reviewed the circumstances surrounding the award before approving its withdrawal.

“The council considered the circumstances surrounding the award of the prize for the best graduating student in professional ethics and approved the withdrawal of the prize from the recipient, arising from the circulation of a photograph online depicting the recipient in attire considered inconsistent with the professional standards and decorum,” the statement said.

The CLE also announced sanctions against two students found guilty of indiscipline-related misconduct, while reaffirming its commitment to discipline, professionalism and appropriate conduct among Nigerian Law School students.

The council did not identify the affected graduate or specify the graduating set. However, reports have identified the recipient as Ogechi Ifezie, who was named the 2026 best graduating student in professional ethics.

Ifezie was among students honoured at the 2026 Call to Bar ceremonies held from July 7 to 10 at the Body of Benchers Complex in Abuja.