Bayelsa NBA Boycotts Courts Over Kidnapped Judge, Demands Justice Umokoro’s Immediate Release

The Yenagoa Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) on Monday commenced a court boycott to protest the abduction of Justice Ebiyerin Umokoro, a Bayelsa State High Court judge, who was kidnapped by gunmen on Saturday evening.

Justice Umokoro was abducted at an eatery in the Ekeki area of Yenagoa while waiting for his daughter who had stepped inside to purchase bread. The assailants, reportedly disguised in police uniforms, whisked the judge away in broad daylight, sending shockwaves through the legal community and beyond.

Speaking during a solidarity gathering at the judiciary headquarters in Yenagoa, NBA Yenagoa Branch Chairman, Mr. Somina Johnbull, strongly condemned the incident, describing it as an affront to the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.

“Justice Umokoro is not just a sitting judge but a former chairman of our branch. His abduction is a direct assault on the legal profession and must not go unpunished,” Johnbull said.

“We have withdrawn our legal services and stayed away from courts across Bayelsa State to demand his immediate and unconditional release. The boycott will continue until further notice as we assess developments.”

Lawyers were seen in clusters outside court premises on Monday, engaging in discussions as NBA officials met with security agencies to press for swift action.

Governor, Police Vow to Rescue Judge Unharmed

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, also weighed in on the matter during his local government thank-you tour in Sagbama on Monday. He disclosed that the kidnappers were captured on CCTV footage and ordered top security commanders in the state to spare no effort in rescuing the judge safely.

“The judge’s abductors were caught on CCTV. I have directed that all resources must be mobilized to bring him back alive,” Diri said.

“Let me warn the criminals and their sponsors: Bayelsa is not a lawless state. We have invested heavily in surveillance technology. There is no hiding place for you.”

Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Alonyenu, confirmed that the police were working closely with other security agencies and analyzing available footage from the scene to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

Background and Security Implications

Justice Umokoro’s abduction marks a disturbing escalation in insecurity targeting high-profile individuals in Bayelsa. Legal professionals fear it could further undermine judicial independence and embolden criminals if swift action is not taken.

The NBA has vowed to continue its protest and legal advocacy until Justice Umokoro is freed and the culprits brought to justice.