A coalition of 15 civil society organisations (CSOs) has commended the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Afam Osigwe (SAN), for his steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law. The commendation follows his presence at the Federal High Court in Abuja on January 29, 2025, to observe the arraignment of human rights activist and pro-democracy campaigner, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, on alleged cybercrime charges.

The CSOs, including Media Rights Agenda (MRA), Hope Behind Bars Africa, Restorative Justice for Africa Initiative, Paradigm Initiative (PIN), Yiaga Africa, NULAI Nigeria, BO Foundation for Inclusive Media (BOFIM), Human Rights Journalists Network Nigeria (HRJN), International Press Centre (IPC), Global Rights, Nigeria Network of NGOs, Sesor Empowerment Foundation, Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC), Dataphyte Foundation, Digicivic Initiative, and TechHerNG, praised Osigwe for demonstrating transparency, fairness, and accountability in Nigeria’s judicial process.

In a joint statement, the organisations lauded Osigwe’s symbolic yet courageous gesture, emphasizing that the NBA plays a critical role in protecting democratic values and ensuring judicial independence.

“The NBA President’s presence in court underscored the legal profession’s commitment to upholding fundamental rights as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution,” the statement read.

The CSOs also urged the NBA to institutionalize court observations by forming dedicated legal monitoring teams to oversee trials and advocate for judicial reforms. They stressed the need to prevent the weaponization of the Cybercrime Act against activists and journalists, a move they believe will strengthen democratic governance.

Furthermore, the statement called for stronger collaboration between the NBA and civil society groups to identify critical cases that require legal observation and continuous advocacy for judicial integrity.

The organisations reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the NBA in ensuring the protection of human rights and the rule of law. They urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant in defending justice and democracy in Nigeria.

“We commend the NBA President for setting this laudable precedent and call on all stakeholders to remain resolute in the fight for justice and human rights,” the statement concluded.