NBA Offers Free Legal Services For Protesters

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has provided free legal assistance to protesters whose fundamental human rights may be violated during the ongoing #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria demonstration.

The association’s President, Yakubu Maikyau, stated in a statement on Thursday, August 1, through the NBA National Publicity Secretary, Akorede Lawal, that directives have been sent to all chairpersons of the association’s 130 branches to investigate any cases of violation of fundamental human rights of protest participants.

However, he advised demonstrators to conduct their actions peacefully, and he urged law enforcement officers to be professional and respect the human rights of people while carrying out their duties.

The statement read: “The President of the Nigerian Bar Association Mr. Yakubu Maikyau, has yesterday, July 31, 2024, directed all the Chairmen/Chairpersons of the 130 Branches of the NBA to ensure that their respective Human Rights Committees take up observed or reported cases of breach of fundamental right (s) of any citizen, harassment, intimidation or torture perpetrated by law enforcement agents, the protesters or other identified members of the public in the course of the protest.

“Chairmen/chairpersons of NBA branches have also been directed to set up Situation Monitoring Committees to monitor and report activities and interactions between law enforcement agents and protesters. To this end, an online monitoring form has been provided, and it can be accessed from the link https://rb.gy/q5xqg7.

“Members of the SMC and other members of the NBA engaged in the monitoring exercise are encouraged to complete the form and submit same for NBA’s record and further action where necessary.”

It added, “To ensure effective coordination of this endeavour, the NBA has established Legal Support Services Teams across the country headed by the first Vice President of the NBA, Mrs. Linda Rose Bala; the Chairman NBA-SPIDEL, Sir Steve Adehi, (SAN); and the Chairman, NBA Human Rights Institute; Mr. Chinonye Obiagwu, (SAN). The NBA President has also written to the Inspector General of Police to collaborate with the NBA in this regard.

“As the protest commences today, August 1, 2024, the NBA wishes to encourage citizens, including members of the NBA who are joining the protest to exercise their right peacefully and within the bounds of the law. The security agencies are also urged to be professional and observe human rights in their duty to enforce the law.”

The hunger strike, which aims to draw the government’s attention to the economic hardships that its citizens are currently experiencing, is scheduled to take place in all 36 states and the FCT. It starts today, August 1, and will last until August 10.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli