Nigerian Bar Association President Commended for Supporting Rule of Law
Oru Leonard
The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Afam Osigwe (SAN), has been commended by civil society organizations for his demonstration of support for the rule of law. Osigwe appeared at the Federal High Court in Abuja on January 29, 2025, to observe proceedings in the arraignment of human rights campaigner Omoyele Sowore on alleged cybercrime charges.¹
The NBA President’s presence in court sent a strong message about the importance of transparency, fairness, and accountability in the judicial process. This act underscores the critical role of legal professionals in safeguarding democratic principles and ensuring justice prevails.
The civil society organizations urged the NBA to institutionalize court observation and establish dedicated legal monitoring teams. They also called on the NBA to advocate for judicial reforms, protect human rights defenders, and challenge the misuse of the Cybercrime Act against activists and journalists.
The organizations recognized the NBA President’s action as a significant step towards promoting public confidence in the judiciary. They emphasized the collective responsibility of legal practitioners, civil society, and citizens in preserving democracy and the rule of law.
The commendation was signed by several civil society organizations, including Media Rights Agenda (MRA), Hope Behind Bars Africa, and Paradigm Initiative (PIN).
Cover Photo Credit: NBA BLOG