The newly inaugurated President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe, has announced his first appointments following his assumption of office.
Osigwe has appointed prominent human rights lawyer Barrister Deji Adeyanju, Inibehe Effiong, Maxwell Opara, and others to the newly created Citizens’ Liberties Committee (CLC).
The announcement was made after Osigwe’s inaugural speech at the NBA’s conference in Lagos.
Taking over from Mr. Yakubu Maikyau, Osigwe officially began his tenure on Thursday.
Elected in July 2024, he plans to build on the work of his predecessor, whose term concluded at the conference.
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In his inaugural address, Osigwe reiterated his commitment to making the NBA a strong advocate in Nigeria’s democratic process and pledged that the association would continue to hold both federal and state governments accountable.
“The rule of law must be upheld, and the rights of Nigerians must be protected,” he asserted.
To enhance the protection of citizens’ rights and liberties, Osigwe has established the Citizens’ Liberties Committee (CLC), appointing Nuhu Egya as Chairman, Malachy Ugwumadu as Alternate Chair, and including Deji Adeyanju, Inibehe Effiong, and Maxwell Opara as members.
Osigwe outlined that the CLC will work with NBA branches to coordinate with Chief Judges across states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
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The committee is responsible for ensuring that Magistrates and Judges inspect all police stations and detention facilities in Nigeria monthly, as stipulated by the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.
Moreover, the committee will instruct the Human Rights Committees of each NBA branch to join Chief Magistrates and Judges on these inspections to foster greater transparency and accountability within the justice system.
Citizens will also be encouraged to participate in monitoring these facilities and to report their observations through the Human Rights Committees.
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Reacting, Adeyanju expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for his appointment, stating, “I am honored to be appointed to the Citizens’ Liberties Committee and appreciate the trust placed in me by President Osigwe. This committee represents a crucial step towards reinforcing the protection of human rights and civil liberties in Nigeria.”
Highlighting the importance of this initiative amidst growing concerns for citizens’ rights, he added, “Our mission will be to advocate for justice, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that the voices of the marginalized are heard. Together, we will strive to create a society where every individual’s rights are respected and protected.”
Adeyanju urged fellow legal professionals to unite in the pursuit of equality and justice, highlighting that “collaborative efforts are crucial for meaningful change.”
He reaffirmed his dedication to working alongside other committee members to tackle urgent issues impacting citizens and to foster a culture of human rights throughout the nation.
