Criminalization of Civil Protests: NBA To Reactivate Pro-Bono Department
By Chinedu Echianu
The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) has vowed to reactivate it’s moribund Pro-Bono Department to ensure that indigent Nigerians persecuted unjustly can be offered free legal representation at all times.
The new President of NBA Afam Osigwe (SAN) made this known when he received the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) who were in the NBA headquarters on a courtesy visit.
A statement signed by the Head of Information and Public Affairs at the NLC, Benson Upah said the meeting provided an opportunity for both organizations to exchange views and experiences on the importance of entrenching the Rule of Law and safeguarding the fundamental rights of Nigerian citizens.
“Discussions focused on how the labor and legal sectors can work together to ensure that democracy thrives, and that governance is anchored on justice, fairness, and accountability.
“Comrade Joe Ajaero reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to working alongside the NBA in promoting the rights of workers and all Nigerians. He emphasized the importance of a strong legal presence that protects citizens from abuse, ensures the freedom of association, and upholds democratic norms.
“The NLC President also commended the NBA’s role in defending the integrity of the legal system, while expressing optimism that this collaboration will lead to meaningful change in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape.
“This meeting marks a significant step forward in fostering cooperation between the legal and labour sectors as they join forces to make Nigeria a better and more just society.” the statement read in parts.
In the course of the meeting as highlighted by the statement, the NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN) highlighted the NBA’s determination to uphold the Rule of Law and strengthen Nigeria’s legal institutions while also assuring the NLC of the NBA’s readiness to partner with the Nigeria Labour Congress in advocating for policies that respect citizens’ rights and promote social justice.
Both organizations condemned the criminalization of civil protests and agreed that the road to sustainable progress for Nigeria lies in ensuring that the principles of the Rule of Law are adhered to at all levels of governance.
