BREAKING: NBA Begins Pro Bono Initiative For #EndBadGovernance Protesters, Mandates Branches To Monitor Trial

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has instructed its branches to oversee the trials of #EndBadGovernance protesters.

In response to concerns about legal representation, the NBA has also launched a Pro Bono support initiative for protesters without legal counsel.

The NBA said its Citizens’ Liberties Committee (NBA-CLC) has been tasked with working closely with the Chairmen and Human Rights Committees of NBA branches in regions where protesters are being prosecuted.

According to Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN President, NBA in a statement on Wednesday, the NBA legal teams would continue to monitor court proceedings to guarantee that trials adhere strictly to due process, protecting the legal rights of all defendants.

"The Nigerian Bar Association legal teams are in courts and will continue to monitor proceedings to ensure that the rule of law is upheld, the human rights of defendants are protected, and justice is served," the NBA stated.

The initiative follows concerns raised by various human rights groups and legal practitioners about the fairness and transparency of the ongoing trials.

The NBA's involvement is expected to provide much-needed legal support to the protesters, ensuring that their rights are fully protected throughout the judicial process.

The NBA's commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding human rights has been reaffirmed through this proactive approach. The association's legal teams are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that justice is served in the trials of the #EndBadGovernance protesters.

The statement reads, “I have directed the branches of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to monitor the trials of the #EndBadGovernance protesters. Additionally, I have launched a Pro Bono support initiative for protesters who lack legal representation.

“The Nigerian Bar Association Citizens’ Liberties Committee (NBA-CLC) has been tasked with liaising closely with the Chairmen and Human Rights Committees of NBA branches in regions where protesters are currently being prosecuted. This ensures that no defendant suffers injustice.

“The NBA legal team will continue to monitor court proceedings to ensure that trials are conducted with strict adherence to due process, safeguarding the legal rights of all defendants. The Nigerian Bar Association legal teams are in courts and will continue to monitor proceedings to ensure that the rule of law is upheld, the human rights of defendants are protected, and justice is served.”