Afam Osigwe (SAN), the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has raised concerns about the worsening security situation in the South-East, citing widespread illegal detentions, extrajudicial killings, and human rights abuses.
In an interview with a correspondent in Enugu, Osigwe condemned the rising lawlessness, stating that these developments have led to a breakdown of order in the region.
“The security issue in the South-East deserves urgent attention. Many communities have lost local government presence, police stations have been destroyed, and kidnapping for ransom has become commonplace,” Osigwe said.
He also criticized the practice of some magistrates issuing remand orders without jurisdiction, resulting in prolonged and unjust detentions. Osigwe pointed out that over 68% of inmates in Nigerian prisons are awaiting trial, with many spending more time in detention than they would have if convicted.
“We cannot accept a situation where people are held in remand indefinitely,” Osigwe stated. “We’ve urged Chief Judges to ensure that magistrates do not issue remand orders without setting a review date. Every individual deserves their day in court.”
Osigwe called on Chief Judges to instruct magistrates not to remand any suspect without formally charging them. He also encouraged those who have been unjustly remanded to seek legal redress, assuring them that NBA lawyers would be available to offer pro bono services.
Furthermore, Osigwe emphasized the NBA’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and security in the South-East through advocacy and collaboration with relevant agencies.
