There are moments in life when our courage and conviction are put to the test in the face of adversity. In those challenging times, we seek guidance from our leaders to navigate through the darkness and emerge into the light. This was evident when Mr. Okey Wali, the former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, was kidnapped in Port Harcourt.
The incident sent shockwaves throughout Nigeria’s legal community, highlighting the country’s increasing crime rate. However, the current NBA President, YC Maikyau, OON, SAN demonstrated true leadership. He faced the challenge head-on, rallying his fellow lawyers, and urging the Nigerian government and security agencies to do all they could to secure Mr. Wali’s release.
Maikyau’s swift response was a testament to his leadership qualities. He visited Mr. Wali’s family, offering support and prayers during this difficult time. He also visited the Commissioner of Police where he had closed door meeting with the CP. His public appeal for intensified efforts to secure the release of the kidnapped lawyer was commendable. He also did not stop at seeing the family, the CP, OCJ Okocha SAN (the leader of the Port Harcourt Bar), he proceeded to visit the wounded Police officers who were at the time receiving treatment in Port Harcourt. This showed that even the Police officers who risk their lives protecting citizens deserve attention in situations like this.
The kidnapping of a prominent lawyer like Okey Wali for the second time was not just a crime against him and his family, but also an attack on the legal profession. As the leader of the NBA, Maikyau recognized the gravity of the situation and took proactive steps to ensure that justice prevailed.
The legal community in Nigeria is grateful for Maikyau’s leadership during this crisis. His bold and decisive actions sent a strong message to criminals that the legal community will not be intimidated and justice will always prevail.
The release of Okey Wali is a huge relief to his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire legal community in Nigeria. However, the incident should serve as a wake-up call on the government and security agencies to do more to tackle the rising crime rate in Nigeria.
YC Maikyau, SAN, OON, has shown himself to be a true leader in the legal community. His sincere efforts in securing the release of Okey Wali and his commitment to the rule of law are commendable. The legal community in Nigeria can be rest assured that it has a leader who will stand up for their rights and protect their interests.
Sani Ammani writes from Kano.
