Detailed Summary Of NBA President’s Address Of Critical Issues At 2024 NEC Meeting

Here is a summary of the critical issues addressed by Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN at the recently concluded NBA NEC meeting>>>>>>>>>>>

1. Solutions for Stamp Production Delays: Responding to the recent delays in lawyer stamp production and distribution, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) held an emergency meeting on September 9, 2024. Attended by the NBA National Executive Committee (EXCO) along with 130 branch chairmen and secretaries, the meeting resulted in a renegotiated agreement with stamp producers. NBA branches are now tasked with compiling lists of members facing delivery issues, which will be addressed promptly via stampsupport@nigerianbar.org.ng.

2. Holding Governments Accountable: NBA President, Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN, reaffirmed the Association’s dedication to ensuring government accountability. He emphasised that NBA would continue to advocate for policies that prioritise justice, human rights, transparency, and good governance across Nigeria.

3. 2025 Annual General Conference in Rivers State: The NBA’s upcoming Annual General Conference, scheduled for August 2025 in Rivers State, will feature a 20% fee reduction for young lawyers, aiming to foster inclusivity within the profession.

4. Defending Peaceful Protesters’ Rights: In support of #EndBadGovernance protesters, the NBA announced pro bono support for those facing trials. NBA branches will closely monitor these cases to ensure due process is upheld.

5. Advocating for Security in Judicial Proceedings: The NBA criticised inadequate police security during recent local elections in Rivers State and condemned the occurrence of “judicial rascality” in conflicting court orders. Security, the NBA asserted, remains a constitutional duty that must be fulfilled.

6. Detention of Minors Post-Protests: The NBA raised concerns about the detention of 32 minors following the #EndBadGovernance protests. The Association demands reforms to Nigeria’s juvenile detention system and improved treatment conditions for minors in detention, highlighting the urgent need for child rights protections in the justice system.

7. Push for LPDC Rule Reforms: President Osigwe, SAN, proposed reforms to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) rules to facilitate faster investigations and restore NBA’s investigatory powers on professional misconduct cases.

8. Enforcement of Practice Standards: The NBA will enforce Rule 12(1) to ensure that only lawyers who meet the required BPF and CPD standards can renew their practicing certificates, reinforcing professional growth and integrity.

9. New Disciplinary Panels for Regional Coverage: President Osigwe requested NEC’s approval to establish disciplinary panels across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to ensure fair and accessible legal discipline nationwide.

10. Utilisation of NBA Assets: To optimise resources, the NBA seeks NEC approval to lease vacant floors at the NBA House and rent out its former Secretariat.

11. Reforming the Juvenile Justice System and “Holding Charge” Issues: The NBA condemned the misuse of “holding charges” leading to prolonged detentions and called for strict adherence to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), which mandates remand reviews every 14 days. NBA branches are to collaborate with state Chief Judges to monitor compliance.

12. Addressing Detention Conditions: Thousands of detainees reportedly suffer in inadequate facilities across Nigeria. NBA branches will work with state Chief Magistrates and Judges to enforce the inspection of these facilities and protect detainee rights.

13. Need for Legal Practitioners in Police Divisions: The NBA urges the Police Service Commission to assign a legal practitioner to each of the 5,000 police stations in Nigeria, in line with Section 66 of the Police Establishment Act 2020, to monitor human rights compliance.

14. Court of Appeal Closures: The NBA expressed deep concern over the temporary closure of Court of Appeal divisions in Enugu, Owerri, and Awka due to security concerns. The NBA calls on South-East Governors to prioritise the security of judicial officers and maintain accessible courts for the public.

15. Crackdown on Peaceful Protesters: The NBA firmly supports citizens’ rights to peaceful protests and urges law enforcement to uphold constitutional protections for free speech and assembly.

16. Proposed Amendment to Limit NJC’s Powers: NBA opposes a proposed constitutional amendment that would remove the National Judicial Council’s (NJC) authority in appointing state judiciary officials, warning that it could make the judiciary subservient to state governments.

17. Fuel Price Hike: The NBA criticised recent fuel price hikes by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and called for government measures to alleviate the impact on citizens, including tax reliefs, road repairs, and improved local fuel production.

18. Combating Oil Theft: The NBA highlighted the severe economic and social impacts of crude oil theft and urged NBA branches in oil-producing regions to advocate for measures to curb this activity.

The NBA President’s comprehensive address underscored the Association’s commitment to legal reform, justice, and good governance. These resolutions, aimed at strengthening the justice system and protecting citizens’ rights, reflect NBA’s role as an advocate for social and legal accountability in Nigeria.