NBA cautions against using protest to undermine judicial, political processes in Kanu’s case
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) on Thursday cautioned against using the planned Oct. 20 protest for the release of Nnamdi Kanu to undermine ongoing judicial and political processes addressing the matter.
NBA President, Mr Afam Osigwe, SAN, gave the caution in an interview with newsmen in Abuja.
Mr Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), had begun mobilisation for what he described as a peaceful protest demanding Kanu’s release.
Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is currently facing terrorism-related charges before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
Osigwe said while the NBA recognises and upholds the right of citizens to peaceful protest, such actions should not interfere with ongoing court proceedings or political engagements aimed at resolving the issue.
“The NBA, as an association, respects the rights of every Nigerian to demonstrate. The right to protest is part of the constitutional rights to freedom of expression and association,” he said.
“However, since there is an ongoing trial before the court, we must ensure that judicial processes are not undermined or that we do not create an impression that the judiciary cannot be trusted to dispense justice fairly,” he added.
The NBA president emphasised that the police have a duty to ensure that any protest remains peaceful and is not hijacked by hoodlums, warning that demonstrations could easily degenerate into violence if not properly managed.
Osigwe also urged caution to avoid politicising Kanu’s trial or derailing ongoing efforts by South-East leaders, including governors and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who are reportedly engaging with the Federal Government to secure a political solution.
“I understand that the leaders from the South-East are presently engaging the Federal Government about finding a possible solution to this problem. Demonstrations should not undermine that process,” he said.
While commending Sowore’s advocacy for Kanu’s release, Osigwe said such efforts should be pursued constructively and within the confines of law and order.
“I share the sentiment that the government should work to ensure Kanu’s release, but the process should not be allowed to escalate into unrest. Leaders engaging with government should be given the opportunity to manage the process toward a political solution,” he said.
He described the case as “a sensitive matter” that requires patience and strategic engagement rather than confrontation, warning that an uncontrolled protest could worsen the situation.
Osigwe called for “more constructive ways” of engaging the government and relevant stakeholders to secure Kanu’s release.
The Federal High Court has adjourned Kanu’s trial to next week for continuation of hearing.
