Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) has demanded an end to human rights abuse and extortion by military personnel.
The President of NBA, Afam Osigwe (SAN), who led the delegation to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, on Tuesday, decried reoccurring abuse of the rights of lawyers and Nigerians by some personnel.
Osigwe noted that most of the military checkpoints across the nation have been turned into extortion points. He also made a case against the military’s tactic of punishing communities for the crimes of few.
He explained that the engagement was in line with his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of lawyers and addressing critical national issues.
“During our discussions, I expressed deep concern over the alarming reports of persistent attacks on lawyers by security agencies. Specifically, we highlighted the case of our colleague, Okorie Kevin, who was reportedly detained by the Navy for over 120 days without proper documentation or explanation. Such actions violate due process and the fundamental rights enshrined in our Constitution, and we called for immediate redress.
“We also brought attention to troubling practices at military checkpoints, where some personnel allegedly engage in extortion and the use of collective punishment in communities experiencing crises.
“I urged the Defense Headquarters to adopt a more targeted approach that ensures innocent civilians are not harmed while maintaining respect for human rights and the rule of law,” he said.
Henzodaily reports that General Musa emphasized that the Defense Headquarters was committed to discipline, professionalism, and a people-centric approach in its operations.
He assured that he would conduct an investigation into the allegations, particularly as it concerned Okorie Kelvin allegedly detained by the Nigerian Navy.
Osigwe added that NBA would remain resolute in its mission to defend the rule of law, protect the rights of lawyers, and uphold the dignity of all Nigerians.