NBA President Osigwe Forms Citizens’ Liberties Committee, Appoints Adeyanju, Inibehe Effiong, and Others

The newly inaugurated President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe, has announced his initial appointments following his assumption of office.

Osigwe has appointed prominent human rights lawyer Barrister Deji Adeyanju, Inibehe Effiong, Maxwell Opara, and others to the newly created Citizens’ Liberties Committee (CLC). The announcement was made after his inaugural address at the NBA conference in Lagos.

Osigwe, who took the oath of office on Thursday, succeeded Yakubu Maikyau as the head of the esteemed legal body. Elected in July 2024, Osigwe plans to build on the work of his predecessor, whose term concluded at the conference.

In his inaugural speech, Osigwe reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the NBA remains a strong advocate for Nigeria’s democratic process. He emphasized that under his leadership, the association will continue to hold both federal and state governments accountable.

“The rule of law must be upheld, and the rights of Nigerians must be protected,” Osigwe stated.

To enhance the protection of citizens’ rights and liberties, Osigwe established the Citizens’ Liberties Committee, appointing Nuhu Egya as Chairman, Malachy Ugwumadu as Alternate Chair, with Adeyanju, Inibehe Effiong, and Maxwell Opara as members.

The CLC will work with NBA branches to liaise with Chief Judges across states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It will ensure that police stations and detention facilities are inspected monthly by Magistrates and Judges, as mandated by the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.

The committee will also oversee the Human Rights Committees of NBA branches, directing them to accompany Chief Magistrates and Judges on these inspections to promote transparency and accountability in the justice system. Citizens will be encouraged to participate in monitoring these facilities and reporting their findings through the Human Rights Committees.

Reacting to his appointment, Adeyanju expressed gratitude and enthusiasm, stating, “I am honored to be appointed to the Citizens’ Liberties Committee and appreciate the trust placed in me by President Osigwe. This committee is a crucial step towards reinforcing the protection of human rights and civil liberties in Nigeria.”

He emphasized the importance of this initiative amid growing concerns for citizens’ rights, saying, “Our mission will be to advocate for justice, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that the voices of the marginalized are heard. Together, we will work towards a society where every individual’s rights are respected and protected.”

Adeyanju also called on fellow legal professionals to join the fight for equality and justice, stressing that “collaborative efforts are essential for meaningful change.” He reaffirmed his commitment to working diligently with other committee members to address pressing issues affecting citizens and foster a culture of human rights nationwide.