NBA launches pro-bono support for #EndBadGovernance protesters

The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Josiah Osigwe, has announced that he has directed the association’s branches to monitor the trials of protesters arrested during the recent #EndBadGovernance protests.

Osigwe, in a statement on Wednesday, also disclosed the launch of a pro-bono support initiative for protesters who lack legal representation.

“I have directed the branches of the Nigerian Bar Association to monitor the trials of the #EndBadGovernance protesters. Additionally, I have launched a pro-bono support initiative for protesters who lack legal representation,” Osigwe said.

According to Osigwe, the NBA Citizens’ Liberties Committee (NBA-CLC) will work closely with the chairmen and human rights committees of NBA branches in regions where protesters are being prosecuted.

This, he noted, is to ensure that no defendant suffers injustice.

Osigwe added that the association’s legal teams will be present in courtrooms across the country to monitor proceedings and ensure that the rule of law is upheld and justice is served.

He said, “The Nigerian Bar Association Citizens’ Liberties Committee (NBA-CLC) has been tasked with liaising closely with the Chairmen and Human Rights Committees of NBA branches in regions where protesters are currently being prosecuted. This ensures that no defendant suffers injustice.

“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. The Nigerian Bar Association legal 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.”