NBA offers free legal services for protesters, warns security agents against rights abuses

Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afem Osigwe on Tuesday said the association will provide free legal services to citizens who have been harassed or unlawfully arrested or detained during the National Day of Survival protests.

In a statement addressing concerns about the protests and commemoration of Nigeria's independence anniversary, Mr Osigwe said Nigerians have the right to demand better governance and human rights reforms.

“In light of this, the NBA reaffirms its commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of all Nigerians. We will provide free legal services to peaceful protesters who may face any form of intimidation, harassment or arbitrary detention during protests,” their statement read in part.

He also said that the NBA has ordered its Civil Liberties Committee in conjunction with the NBA Human Rights Committees of its various branches to “stand ready throughout the country to respond quickly to any incident of human rights abuses”.

“The NBA will not hesitate to take legal action against any violations of these rights,” Mr. Osigwe said.

Tuesday's protests, also known as 'Fearless October', coincide with Nigeria's 64th independence anniversary. The protest follows August's #EndBadGovernance protest, which, like the October protest, demanded stronger action from the government to ease the economic hardships of citizens.

“It is the right of every Nigerian to peacefully express their views and demand better governance without fear of harassment or intimidation,” Mr Osigwe said.

their views coincided Warning issued by National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) On Monday against any attempts by the police and other law enforcement agencies to violate the rights of protestors to protest.

The NHRC's warning was timely, as a report released by the commission in September showed that human rights violations committed by security forces during the August #EndBadGovernance protests led to a significant increase in the number of human rights complaints received in the month.

Mr Osigwe, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), on Tuesday called on law enforcement agencies to “act with restraint and respect for the law”.

“The NBA stands firmly in support of the principles of democracy, freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, which are enshrined in our Constitution.”

Independence Day anniversary: ​​'No time for celebration'

Reflecting on Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day anniversary, Mr Osigwe said it is not a time for celebration but a moment for reflection on the state of the country.

“Independence Day is not only a day of celebration but also a day of serious reflection. It is a reminder of our shared responsibility to build a nation where the rule of law prevails, where human rights are respected and where governance is conducted in the best interests of the people,” he said.

Acknowledging the challenges Nigeria has faced over the years, Mr Osigwe expressed optimism for the future, pointing to the country's resilience. “Over the past six decades, we have faced many difficulties, yet we are united in the pursuit of justice, democracy and progress.”

He also stressed the need for leadership accountability and institutional integrity and said that the strength of any nation lies in how it treats its citizens.

He said, “As we celebrate our 64th year of independence, let us remember that the strength of a nation lies in the respect given to its people, the accountability of its leaders and the integrity of its institutions.”

The NBA President reaffirmed the association's commitment to promoting justice and equality. He added, “The NBA will continue to advocate for these values ​​as we move toward a more equitable and just society.”