Abuja, Nigeria - October 26, 2025 A legal luminary, Mr Joseph Daudu (SAN), has cautioned legal practitioners nationwide against relying on artificial intelligence and allowing societal stereotypes to influence their professional conduct. Daudu gave the advice in Abuja at the send-off ceremony honouring the 42nd Set of Externs from the Nigerian Law School, who were on attachment with the law firm of JB Daudu & Co. in Abuja, Kaduna, and Zaria. The JB Daudu & Co Mentorship Development Programme Series is powered by the Rule of Law Development Foundation. According to Daudu, the practice of law is not a tea party, noting that while it may be one of the simplest courses to study in the university, it is also the most challenging profession to practise in real- life settings. He noted that practitioners often face scrutiny from their peers and the public and may face disciplinary action, including disbarment, if they deviate from professional standards. "As modem day legal practitioners, essentially of the Gen-Z, be careful not to allow societal stereotypes to determine who you are and how you will practice this age- old profession. "Many generations from the medieval ages have successfully practiced this profession. It is not only about issues of mental wellbeing and safe spaces whenever you come under pressure. "As a legal practitioner, you carry a great burden on behalf of society. You shoulder the burden of ensuring even at a risk to your personal comfort and safety that the society you live in is just an egalitarian society. "You are not only a lawyer to the rich elite. You must and are expected to fight, for, and defend the rights of the poor, underprivileged, and the downtrodden in your society "We are in an era where modern contraptions and inventions, such as Artificial Intelligence, numerous IT software, robotics, etc, are competing to offer legal solutions to lawyers. "A lawyer boasted about how ChatGPT wrote a brief of argument for him within 20 minutes. However, when he submitted the brief, it was discovered to his embarrassment that the app had furnished him with hypothetical and/or fake judicial precedents," Daudu said. He further explained that those tools are what were previously referred to as handmaids of the law, adding that they are not, and will never be, a substitute for human intelligence quotient. According to him, you cannot take out the humanity in law or tar your cases with the brush of artificial intelligence, stressing that every case is different and requires a human touch. "Your personal skills and individual discretions in the execution of your clients' instruction is paramount , and is the key to maintaining the equilibrium of a successful legal practice. "For every professional act you carry out, financial gain is the least important, what is most paramount is the attainment of law, justice and order in your society," Daudu said. He further shared his views on national issues, including the Electoral Act, proposed amendments, and the President's exercise of prerogative mercy as stipulated in the constitution. "While its use has sometimes sparked public debate, the enduring essence of the prerogative of mercy lies in its reminder that justice, though firm , must never be devoid of humanity. "The legal system is measured not only by its capacity to punish but also by its ability to forgive. Ultimately, the true strength of a legal system is measured not only by its capacity to punish but also by its ability to forgive when mercy serves the greater good."Daudu said Meanwhile, Mr Aare Olumuyiwa urged the Externs to conduct themselves professionally in their duties and endeavors, as their seniors are observing their actions and professional conduct. Olumuyiwa, who was represented by Adamson Akinboro, urged the Externs to be determined to succeed, to have faith in God, and to continue studying, as the profession is dynamic. Other dignitaries and Externs expressed admiration for Daudu and appreciated the law firm for giving them the opportunity.