The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe (SAN), has raised concerns over the worsening security situation in the South-East, citing widespread illegal detentions, extrajudicial killings, and human rights violations.
Speaking in an exclusive interview in Enugu, Osigwe condemned the escalating lawlessness in the region, stressing that the absence of local governance and the destruction of police stations had fueled insecurity.
“The security situation in the South-East demands urgent attention,” he stated. “Many communities lack government presence, law enforcement structures have been dismantled, kidnappings have become rampant, and criminality is now seen as the norm.”
Osigwe also criticized the indiscriminate use of remand orders by magistrates without jurisdiction, which has led to prolonged and unjust detentions. He highlighted that over 68% of Nigeria’s prison population comprises individuals awaiting trial, with many spending more time in detention than their possible sentences if convicted.
“We strongly oppose the practice of indefinite remand without trial,” he said. “No suspect should be detained without being formally charged, and magistrates must refrain from issuing remand orders beyond their jurisdiction.”
The NBA president called on Chief Judges across the country to ensure that magistrates do not remand suspects arbitrarily, emphasizing the need for a return date on all remand orders to prevent indefinite incarceration.
Encouraging victims of unjust detention to seek legal redress, Osigwe assured that NBA lawyers are ready to offer pro bono services to support those unlawfully detained.
“The affected individuals have the right to sue the state for wrongful detention,” he noted. “While we cannot initiate litigation on their behalf, we encourage those who feel aggrieved to seek legal assistance, and many NBA lawyers are willing to provide free legal support.”
He reaffirmed the NBA’s commitment to fostering peace and security in the South-East through strategic engagement with relevant authorities and continuous advocacy for justice and human rights.
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