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Tag: NBA

  • Legal fireworks looming as NBA drags Egbetokun to court over tinted glass permit

    Legal fireworks looming as NBA drags Egbetokun to court over tinted glass permit

    Legal fireworks looming as the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has sued the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, over the tinted glass permit policy, labelling the move as illegal.

    In April 2025, the IGP introduced a policy, instructing the public to apply for and get annual motor tinted glass permits from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for a stipulated amount.

    A platform was launched for the application to be processed.

    However, during the National Executive Council of the Nigerian Bar Association at its pre-conference NEC meeting held on August 23, 2025, the association said it would challenge the legality of the Nigeria Police Force tinted permit policy in court.

    It described the move as a violation of the rights of the citizens and has “raised several other genuine concerns including the validity of the Motor Tinted Glass (Prohibition) Act (Decree 1991), a military-era law under which the Police has sought refuge”.

    Against the above backdrop, the Nigerian Bar Association, through its Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL) has on Wednesday September 2, 2025 instituted a public interest action before the Federal High Court, Abuja in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/182/2025 between the Incorporated Trustees of the Nigerian Bar Association v. The Inspector General of Police & Anor essentially challenging the legality of the tinted glass permit policy,” the NBA wrote in a statement released on Friday.

    “The NBA-SPIDEL under the leadership of its Transition Committee Chairman, Paul Ananaba, SAN and the Section’s Public Interest Litigation Committee chaired by Olukunle Ogheneovo Edun, SAN, whose proactive efforts were responsible for the accomplishment of this task, has been directed to pursue this litigation to a logical conclusion,” the associated stated.

    the exercise given that the account is neither domiciled with the Central Bank of Nigeria nor associated with the Treasury Single Account of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

    Against the above backdrop, the Nigerian Bar Association, through its Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL) has on Wednesday the 2nd September 2025 instituted a public interest action before the Federal High Court, Abuja in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/182/2025 between: The Incorporated Trustees of the Nigerian Bar Association v. The Inspector General of Police & Anor essentially challenging the legality of the tinted glass permit policy.

    The NBA-SPIDEL under the leadership of its Transition Committee Chairman, Prof. Paul Ananaba, SAN and the Section’s Public Interest Litigation Committee chaired by Mr. Olukunle Ogheneovo Edun, SAN whose proactive efforts were responsible for the accomplishment of this task, have been directed to pursue this litigation to a logical conclusion.

  • NBA slams Ibom Air over passenger’s treatment

    NBA slams Ibom Air over passenger’s treatment

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the treatment of Ms Comfort Emmanson aboard Ibom Air, describing it as reckless, unlawful and a grave violation of her right to dignity.

    This is contained in a statement signed by the NBA President, Mr Afam Osigwe (SAN) and the General Secretary, Dr Mobolaji Ojibara.

    On August 10, an incident occurred aboard an Ibom Air flight involving Emmanson.

    NBA described the manner in which  Emmanson was removed from the aircraft as dehumanising.

    NBA noted that video footage showed an Ibom Air hostess blocking Emmanson’s exit from the plane.

    The association noted that the conduct could constitute false imprisonment and provocation, potentially escalating the situation.

    NBA expressed  outrage over allegations that Emmanson was publicly stripped of her clothing, humiliated, filmed and had the footage circulated online.

    The association viewed the photographing, dissemination and online circulation of indecent images of her as both degrading and a serious invasion of privacy, constituting a criminal act.

    “Even if the incident had to be reported,  the footage should have been blurred or edited in a way that did not expose her nudity to the public,” NBA said.

    The association stressed that those responsible for capturing and distributing the unedited footage must be identified and prosecuted.

    They warned that such acts erode public trust and undermine the rights of all citizens to be treated with dignity and respect.

    NBA considered the lifetime ban on Emmanson from flying Ibom Air or any other, as heavy-handed, legally and morally indefensible, and in breach of the principle of fair hearing.

    The association argued that only the relevant statutory regulator had the authority to suspend or restrict a passenger’s flying privileges, not private entities or airlines.

    The NBA demanded that Ibom Air lift the lifetime ban on Emmanson and issue a public apology.

    NBA urged the Minister for Aviation, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and sanction those responsible.

    The association pledged to provide Emmanson with pro bono legal support to protect her rights and seek redress for the violations she suffered.

  • NBA, lawyers react over death of former CJN Uwais

    NBA, lawyers react over death of former CJN Uwais

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) on Friday, described the late Mohammed Uwais, a former Chief Justice of Nigeria, as an architect of electoral reform and conscience of the bench.

    The bar said this in a statement issued in Lagos, jointly signed by its President and Secretary, Messrs Afam Osigwe (SAN) and Mobolaji Ojibara respectively.

    It said that the late jurist was the architect of electoral reform in Nigeria, whose demise had created a huge vacuum.

    “The Nigerian Bar Association mourns the passing of Hon. Justice Muhammad Lawal Uwais, GCON, former CJN, who departed this life today.

    “Justice Uwais was more than a jurist; he was a pillar of the Nigerian Judiciary and a beacon of integrity, scholarship, and reform.

    “His tenure as Chief Justice of Nigeria, from 1995 to 2006, remains one of the most defining periods in the history of the nation’s judiciary.

    “As the second longest serving Chief Justice, he was a staunch advocate of judicial independence, ethical discipline on the Bench, and the preservation of democratic principles.

    “A man of exceptional intellectual depth, Justice Uwais delivered landmark judgments that significantly advanced constitutional interpretation and civil liberties in Nigeria.”

    The NBA noted that even in retirement, Justice Uwais continued to serve with distinction.

    It said that as chairman of the Electoral Reform Committee of 2007, he proposed far-reaching recommendations.

    “His legacy is one of legal brilliance, public service, moral discipline, and visionary leadership.

    “Justice Uwais leaves behind an indelible imprint on our national conscience, the legal profession, and the system of justice in Nigeria.

    “The Nigerian Bar Association extends its heartfelt condolences to the Uwais family, the Nigerian Judiciary, and the entire legal community,” the statement read.

    Uwais was born on June 12, 1936, in Zaria, Kaduna State. He was widely respected for his steadfast commitment to judicial reforms and the protection of judicial independence during his tenure.

    Lawyers mourn former CJN, Uwais

    Meanwhile, some lawyers  in Lagos, on Friday, described the late former Chief Justice of the Federation, Mohammed Uwais (Rtd), as a man of courage and great wisdom.

    The lawyers told NAN that the demise of the jurist, had created a huge vacuum in the nation’s legal system, adding that he would be sorely missed.

    Uwais served as CJN from 1995 to 2006.

    Reacting to his demise, Mrs Elizabeth Chiozor, a Lagos based lawyer, said that Uwais would,  no doubt be remembered for his impact in the bench.

    “The news of the death of my noble law lord, struck as big blow to every legal practitioner, most of whom,  were already engulfed in the euphoria of the sallah celebration.

    “Hon. Justice Lawal Uwais, as he then was, was know for his fearlessness, courage and ability to stand for justice at all times.

    “His impact was not only felt on the bench, but generally, in driving the wheels of justice effectively and truthfully.

    “Indeed, death is a debt every individual owes mother earth, but what is most important are the legacies we leave behind for those after us.

    “I, dare say, that the late jurist has left an indelible legacy that will linger in the archives of our legal system for a very long time.

    ”I pray that God consoles the family and give them sufficient grace to forge on,” she said.

    On his part, Mr Kehinde Nubi, a principal counsel at  Kehinde Nubi and Associates, said Uwais would be remembered for his 2008 electoral reform advocacy.

    According to him, 2008 electoral committee had advocated transparency and fairness in elections, which was encapsulated in the popular Uwais report at the time.

    “This report is another proof that Nigeria is not in want of the required know-how, but simply lacks the political will to do what is right.

    “His tenure symbolised principled reform and his passing, without doubt, marks the loss of a shiny star in the judicial firmament,” he said.

    Similarly, another legal practitioner, Mr Chibuikem Opara, said that the former CJN brought invaluable experience to the judiciary, during his tenure.

    He noted that Uwais was a key figure in the Supreme Court’s golden era, adding that as CJN, he  made lasting impact in the justice sector.

    He further described Uwais’s reasoning and judgments as exceptional, noting that his insights remained laudable even after retirement.

    Opara noted that as one of Nigeria’s longest-serving Chief Justices, Uwais’s rise to prominence in the judiciary was nothing short of phenomenal.

    “The legal profession has indeed lost a gem,” he said

    Also speaking, Mrs Jumoke Ajayi said the death of the CJN was a big loss to Nigeria justice system.

    Ajayi noted that the late jurist never made any young counsel feel small, even though he occupied the highest bench.

    According to her, Uwais extended support to the legal system, not just through his judgments, but also by mentorship and inspiration to lawyers.

    “He was the conscience of the bench, as his judgments were luminous with wisdom. He respected young lawyers and he never talked down on us.

    “The news of his passing is a huge shock to us all and he will surely be missed,” she said.

    Justice  Uwais was born on June 12, 1936, in Zaria, Kaduna State. He died at the age of 89.

    He was widely respected for his steadfast commitment to judicial reforms and the protection of judicial independence during his tenure.

  • NBA condemns compulsory voting bill as draconian and unlawful

    NBA condemns compulsory voting bill as draconian and unlawful

    The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned the proposed compulsory voting bill under consideration by the House of Representatives, describing it as unconstitutional and draconian.

    In a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), on Tuesday, the NBA emphasised that citizens cannot be punished for choosing to abstain from voting.

    Reports that the House of Representatives recently passed for the second reading, a bill seeking to amend the Electoral Act 2022 to make voting compulsory for all eligible Nigerians of voting age.

    The bill, first introduced in February and sponsored by the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, was presented last week by co-sponsor, Daniel Asama, for a second reading.

    The proposed legislation includes a provision for a maximum penalty of six months’ imprisonment or a fine of up to ₦100,000 for Nigerians of voting age who fail to vote during elections.

    According to the bill’s sponsors, the penalties aim to address persistently low voter turnout, which they claim undermines democratic institutions.

    Asama argued that mandatory voting could reduce the influence of vote buying, electoral apathy, and voter inducement.

    He also pointed to global precedents, noting that countries such as Australia, Belgium, and Brazil have adopted mandatory voting with positive outcomes in political participation and public accountability.

    However, the NBA rejected the bill, describing it as a violation of civil liberties and democratic principles.

    In its statement, the NBA asserted that the bill is inconsistent with the 1999 Constitution.

    “Section 39(1) of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression, which includes the right to remain silent, dissent, and abstain.

    “In a democracy, voting is a civil liberty, not a legal obligation. Compelling citizens to vote through coercive measures infringes on their fundamental rights,” the statement read.

    The NBA further cited Section 40 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to freedom of association, including the right not to associate, stressing that, “Compelling individuals to vote, regardless of their faith in the electoral process or the choices available, violates their personal convictions and political freedoms”.

    The association criticised the bill for attempting to criminalise non-participation in an electoral process plagued by voter apathy, mistrust, insecurity, and systemic flaws.
    It urged the government to address the causes of low voter turnout, such as electoral violence and vote buying, instead of imposing punitive measures.

    Democracy thrives on consent, participation, and trust, not coercion.

    “Forcing citizens to vote under threat of imprisonment undermines the essence of free and fair elections,” the NBA stated.

    The association warned that passing the bill would set a dangerous constitutional precedent, allowing the government to punish citizens for non-participation in its processes.

    “This would pave the way for further erosions of civil liberties under the guise of electoral reform,” it cautioned.

    The NBA called on the National Assembly to immediately halt any legislative processes advancing the bill.

    It stressed that Nigeria’s democracy requires trust, transparency, accountability, and inclusive reforms—not coercion.

    The statement also urged the government and political actors to focus on restoring the integrity of the electoral system, ensuring security on election days, guaranteeing the independence of electoral bodies, and conducting robust voter education to inspire confidence in democratic participation.

    No citizen should be compelled to vote under threat of prosecution.

    “The NBA will resist any attempt to enforce such draconian provisions and will challenge any law that seeks to weaponise civic participation against the people,” the NBA vowed

  • NBA orders boycott of sittings over murder of lawyer

    NBA orders boycott of sittings over murder of lawyer

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Anambra Chapter has condemned gruesome murder of its member, Mr Ifeanyi-Rolex Iloakasia.

    Iloakasia, a member of Otuocha Bar was killed alongside his client in Nanka, Orumba North Local Government Area as they were returning from court sitting in Ekwulobia High Court on May 15.

    The NBA, in a statement signed by K.G. Abonyi, Chairman, Committee of Chairmen and Secretaries of NBA Anambra, described the mysterious attack as a “blatant assault” on the legal profession and the rule of law.

    They said that the NBA, Anambra Chapter, was deeply grieved and aggrieved by the ‘senseless” killing, especially as the tragic loss of Awa P. Awa, former Vice Chairman of Ihiala Branch of the NBA, remained fresh in their memories.

    Committee of Chairmen and Secretaries of NBA Anambra, directed all lawyers to boycott all court sittings in the state from May 20 to May 21 in protest against the murder of their colleague.

    According to the lawyers, justice must be served, and we demand that the relevant authorities leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of truth and accountability.

    “We appreciate the swift response of the Commissioner of Police, Anambra who promptly visited the crime scene for an on-the-spot assessment and directed the commencement of preliminary investigations into the murder.

    “However, we urge the Commissioner of Police, DSS, and other law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to ensure that the perpetrators do not evade justice.

    “Speedy action is crucial in identifying and apprehending those responsible for this horrific crime,

    “Too many lawyers have been sacrificed to insecurity in this state and the legal profession cannot thrive under an atmosphere of fear and insecurity,” it said

    The NBA called on Gov. Chukwuma Soludo to revamp and strengthen security operations across the state to prevent such tragic occurrences in the future

  • Removal of Fubara, a dangerous affront on democracy – NBA

    Removal of Fubara, a dangerous affront on democracy – NBA

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, saying it is unconstitutional removal of elected officials.

    In a statement released on Tuesday, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe stressed that the President lacks the constitutional authority to remove an elected governor, deputy governor, or state lawmakers under the guise of an emergency rule.

    “The 1999 Constitution does not grant the President the power to remove an elected governor, deputy governor, or members of a state’s legislature under the guise of a state of emergency,” the NBA asserted.

    Osigwe stated that the Constitution provides clear procedures for their removal, which have not been followed in this instance.

    The NBA pointed out that while Section 305 of the Constitution allows the President to declare a state of emergency, it also stipulates strict conditions and procedural safeguards to prevent any infringement on democratic governance and fundamental human rights.

    “The political crisis in Rivers State does not meet the constitutional threshold of a complete breakdown of public order to justify a state of emergency,” the statement read.

    The NBA questioned whether the political crisis in Rivers State meets the constitutional threshold for declaring a state of emergency, highlighting that six specific conditions must be met, including:

    • War or external aggression against Nigeria
    • Imminent danger of invasion or war
    • Breakdown of public order and safety
    • Clear danger to Nigeria’s existence
    • Occurrence of any disaster or natural calamity
    • Public danger that constitutes a threat to the Federation

    It added that the declaration of emergency does not automatically dissolve or suspend elected state governments, and the President is not empowered to unilaterally remove elected officials, describing such actions as a “fundamental breach of Nigeria’s federal structure.”

    The NBA asserts that the situation in Rivers State, though politically tense, does not justify the removal of elected officials.

    The association further calls on the National Assembly to reject any unconstitutional attempt to ratify the removal of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

    In conclusion, the NBA noted its committement to upholding the Constitution, defending democratic governance, and ensuring the rule of law prevails in Nigeria.

    The association urges all stakeholders to closely monitor the situation in Rivers State and prevent unconstitutional governance and abuse of power.

  • Over 65% inmates in prisons are awaiting trial, says NBA President

    Over 65% inmates in prisons are awaiting trial, says NBA President

    The President of Nigerian Bar Association ( NBA), Chief Afam Osigwe, says 65 per cent of inmates  in the 244 correctional centres in the country are awaiting trial.

    Osigwe made this known at the National Executive Council meeting of the NBA on Thursday in Akure.

    “We should focus on pre-trial detainees, people who are court  awaiting trials. They make up over 65 per cent  of the prison population.

    “We worry about those who are simply remanded in prison facilities without having their cases tried, or their case taking an intolerable length of time to come to conclusion, on account of one delay or the other.

    “They are sometimes serving more time in prison than they would if the court has convicted them, or even acquiring one disease or the other in prison, or even dying,” he said.

    Osigwe said that the association had  mandated its Human Rights Committee to work with the Chief Judges of the states to ensure prison visits.

    He added that the committee would also urge chief judges in various states release defendants that were not prosecuted.

    “The Chief Judges should also give a directive to all magistrates that if you give a remand order, you must give a return date for a review.

    “If the prosecution, Ministry of Justice, fails to file a charge, that they should order the release of such persons, so that people do not spend time in prison detention without being charged to court.

    “They should ensure that the courts, in line with provisions of the Police Act and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, will visit detention facilities, whether of the police, of the army, of the DSS, of the NDLEA to check the length of time people have been detained there.

    “People should  be released on bail or be charged  to court, or release them entirely.

    “The bar is getting this engagement to ensure that people who have no reason being in detention are released, and that people do not spend a long time in detention without a charge being filed against them,” he stated.

    According to him, NBA is embarking on advocacy  to ensure that  the provisions of the law to avoid the  ugly  situation in various detention facilities.

    Speaking, Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who declared the meeting open, described the NBA NEC as a momentous occasion that  marked  the return of the gathering to the state after a span of nearly  15 years.

    Aiyedatiwa, who was represented by the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, said that it was an opportunity to rejuvenate the professional camaraderie that bound legal practitioners and advocates for justice together.

    The NBA-NEC meeting serves as a vital platform for addressing pressing issues that affected the profession, the rule of law, and the administration of justice.

    “It is a time for introspection, decisive action, and a renewed commitment to the principles that have long guided our noble profession: justice, fairness, and the steadfast pursuit of the rule of law,” he said.

    Aiyedatiwa said that the state government has championed unwavering commitment to  a legal system that would serve the interest of all.

  • 2025, year to advance rule of law – NBA president

    2025, year to advance rule of law – NBA president

    President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), on Wednesday, said that he will intensify advocacy for preservation of the rule of law and human rights, in 2025.

    Osigwe made this known in his new year message to Nigerian Lawyers, which was made available to newsmen in Lagos.

    According to him, the NBA under his watch, will take the front seat in advancing respect for the rule of law and human rights, and will also partner security agencies, to foster a more just and equitable society.

    While noting that the strength of the Nigerian Bar lies in its unity, he urged every Nigeria lawyer to foster collaboration, dialogue, and mutual respect.

    “As we proudly step into the year 2025, I am honored to welcome you all to a new era of limitless possibilities, reflection, gratitude, and renewed determination.

    “This year will also be marked by intensified advocacy for the rule of law and human rights. We will remain at the forefront of holding authorities accountable and ensuring that citizens’ rights are upheld.

    “We will work tirelessly to address issues such as police brutality, unlawful detentions, and other human rights abuses, while partnering with stakeholders to foster a more just and equitable society,” he said .

    Osigwe also harped on the need for collaboration among members of the bar, as the strength of the NBA lies in the unity of its members.

    “As we embark on the tasks ahead, I encourage every member of the NBA to foster collaboration, dialogue, and mutual respect; together, we can overcome the challenges facing our profession and nation.

    “Let us continue to stand as a beacon of hope, integrity, and resilience for Nigeria. As we look forward to 2025, I invite you all to join me in embracing this year with courage, determination, and a shared vision for a brighter future.

    “May it be a year of growth, unity, and success for the NBA, the legal profession, and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.

  • NBA fumes over arrest of Dele Farotimi

    NBA fumes over arrest of Dele Farotimi

    The Nigeria  Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the arrest of a lawyer, Dele Farotimi, by the Nigerian Police Force over allegations bordering on libel.

    The NBA President, Afam Osigwe, in a statement Tuesday night in Abuja, also decried the alleged invasion of Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises.

    Osigwe described the police actions as “a troubling breach of the rule of law and the sanctity of the legal profession.”

    He said while the Nigerian Police Force had the authority to investigate crimes, such power must be exercised within the confines of the law and in respect of offences recognised under Nigerian law.

    “We must reiterate that the alleged offence of libel, for which Dele Farotimi was reportedly arrested, is not recognised as a criminal offense under the laws of Lagos State.

    “The Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 repealed the criminalisation of defamation by omitting it from its provisions.

    “This progressive legislative move aligns with global best practices, which treat defamation as a civil wrong rather than a criminal offence.

    “The Supreme Court in Aviomoh v. Commissioner of Police & Anor (2021) affirmed this position.

    “Justice Helen Ogunwumiju, JSC, unequivocally held that defamation ceased to be a criminal offence in Lagos State following the enactment of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011. This authoritative pronouncement leaves no room for doubt.

    “Furthermore, under Sections 4 and 24 of the Police Act, 2020, the Nigerian Police Force is mandated to act only about conduct that constitutes a criminal offence under Nigerian law.

    “Arresting individuals for non-criminal matters, such as defamation in Lagos State, is not only unlawful but also a blatant violation of the principles of legality and the rule of law,” he said.

    Osigwe also expressed concern over the reported invasion of Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises.

    “Reports that phones were confiscated from lawyers and staff during this invasion highlight a severe disregard for the sanctity of legal practice and the constitutional rights of individuals.

    “The legal profession is a cornerstone of justice and democracy, and any attempt to undermine its independence is a direct assault on the rule of law.

    “The NBA unequivocally condemns the invasion of Mr. Farotimi’s law firm, the harassment of its lawyers and staff, and the unlawful seizure of their phones.

    “Such actions are not only a violation of the constitutional right to dignity and privacy but also an affront to the independence of the legal profession.

    “We, therefore demand the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, as his arrest lacks any basis under the laws of Lagos State.

    “The authorities must swiftly launch an investigation into the invasion of his law firm, with the findings made public and those responsible held accountable.

    “We urge law enforcement agencies to prioritise the principles of legality, fairness, and respect for human rights in their operations.

    “These principles are foundational to justice, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ freedoms,” he concluded.

  • Omo-Agege felicitates Chief Onomigbo-Okpoko, former NBA president, at 92*

    Omo-Agege felicitates Chief Onomigbo-Okpoko, former NBA president, at 92*

    Former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has congratulated High-Chief T. J. Onomigbo-Okpoko, a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), on his 92nd birthday.

    A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Okpoko had a distinguished career in the legal profession and mentored many in the younger generation.

    In his congratulatory message, Senator Omo-Agege said many lawyers drew inspiration from his virtues of integrity, service and leadership that made him rise to the pinnacle of his career.

    “High Chief T. J. Onomigbo-Okpoko epitomises the noble attributes of leadership – integrity, honesty, diligence, fairness and pursuit of justice.

    As our father, I am inspired by his professionalism and love for his people. High Chief is a revered father in Urhoboland and Okpe Kingdom where he has led the path to upholding the culture and norms of the people.

    “We are immensely proud of him as our leader and father. I congratulate him on his birthday anniversary and pray the Most High High God continues to bless him with excellent health,” Omo-Agege, the Obarisi of Urhoboland, stated.