Nigerian lawyer Francis Paul Chukuwuma has recounted how he withdrew from representing a client accused of child defilement after confirming the client's guilt. In a social media post, Chukuwuma explained that while he believes every accused person is entitled to legal representation, he draws the line at defending rape and sexual offenses.
Initial acceptance based on client's denial
Chukuwuma stated that he initially agreed to defend the young man after the client swore he was innocent and claimed he was wrongly accused. Despite having doubts about the client's story, Chukuwuma's professional instinct led him to take the case, but he conducted his own investigation.
Investigation reveals truth
After investigating and hearing testimony from the child's mother, Chukuwuma became convinced that his client had indeed committed the defilement. He confronted the client, who then fell to his knees and admitted the act, blaming it on the devil. Chukuwuma expressed his pain at the revelation.
Withdrawal from the case
On the next court date, Chukuwuma announced to the judge that he was withdrawing his appearance. Despite pleas from the client, his sister, and threats from his brother—a lieutenant colonel in the Navy—Chukuwuma remained firm. He gave them an ultimatum to collect their case file or he would burn it. When they requested a refund of the small fee they had paid, he told them to sue him. Eventually, the Navy officer relented and asked for the file to be delivered.
Stance on defending sexual offenses
Chukuwuma emphasized that while he has defended accused murderers and other criminals, he cannot in good conscience knowingly defend rape and defilement cases. He noted that even a substantial fee would not change his position. He expressed heartbreak upon seeing a female colleague defending a married man who had defiled a child, and warned that if such an offense were committed against his loved one, he would not be merciful.
