Nigerian Bar Association Offers Free Legal Representation to #EndBadGovernance Protesters
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced its commitment to provide free legal representation to protesters involved in the #EndBadGovernance movement who are facing court cases across the country. The announcement was made by NBA President Afam Osigwe on his X handle on Wednesday.
In a statement, Osigwe revealed that the NBA has directed its branches nationwide to closely monitor the legal proceedings against the protesters to ensure they receive fair treatment in court.
“I have directed the branches of the Nigerian Bar Association to monitor the trials of the #EndBadGovernance protesters,” Osigwe stated. “Additionally, I have launched a pro bono support initiative for protesters who lack legal representation.”
To facilitate this initiative, the NBA has activated its Citizens’ Liberties Committee (NBA-CLC), which will work in coordination with the chairmen and human rights committees of NBA branches in areas where protesters are currently being prosecuted. This coordinated effort aims to prevent any miscarriage of justice and ensure that the legal rights of all defendants are protected.
“The NBA legal team will continue to monitor court proceedings to ensure that trials are conducted with strict adherence to due process, safeguarding the legal rights of all defendants,” Osigwe added. “Our teams are in courts and will continue to monitor proceedings to ensure that the rule of law is upheld, the human rights of defendants are protected, and justice is served.”
The announcement comes in response to the ongoing legal challenges faced by protesters who took part in demonstrations against hunger and bad governance across Nigeria from August 1 to 10, 2024. Nine of the protesters have been remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre after being charged with treason, while the sole female defendant has been ordered to remain in custody at the Suleja Correctional Facility.
The NBA’s involvement underscores the importance of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their political stance, have access to legal representation and are treated fairly under the law.
