*As Caliphate Bar and Ikole Ekiti Earn Top Three Spots
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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) commemorated Global Human Rights Day on December 10, 2024, at the NBA National Secretariat Auditorium in Abuja. The event, themed “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now: All Humans Are Born Free and Equal in Dignity and Rights,” marked the conclusion of the association’s inaugural 16-day human rights activism campaign, which was held across all 130 branches of the NBA from November 25 to December 10.
During this period, the NBA focused on addressing gender-based violence and advancing the protection of fundamental human rights nationwide. The association facilitated the resolution of over 250 cases of gender-based violence, secured the release of 109 suspects from police detention, and aided the freedom of 89 inmates from correctional facilities across the country.
At the event, the NBA recognized and honored branches that made exceptional contributions to the fight for human rights in Nigeria during the 16-day activism period. The awards were presented by the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, and the 1st Vice President and Chairman of the Human Rights Institute, Sabastine Anyia.
The coveted first position was awarded to the NBA Yola Branch, which demonstrated outstanding commitment and effectiveness in championing human rights causes during the activism period. Gabriel Agito, a branch member, received the award on behalf of the branch, expressing confidence that they would continue to lead the way in human rights advocacy. In his address, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, commended the NBA Yola Branch for setting a high standard in human rights advocacy and called on other branches to emulate their example.
The second position was claimed by the NBA Sokoto Branch, also known as the Caliphate Bar. The branch, which recently elected its first woman as chair, has been making headlines for various positive initiatives in recent months. The NBA commended the branch for its exemplary work in protecting human rights. The Ikole Ekiti Branch secured third place for its impressive contributions.
Sabastine Anyia, the 1st Vice President and Chairman of the Human Rights Institute, praised the winning branches for their dedication and urged them to continue their efforts beyond the 16-day activism period. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that human rights are protected and promoted at all times.
The NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, also commended the branches and the Human Rights Institute for their initiatives, noting that it was the first time the NBA had been fully engaged in such an extensive human rights campaign. He pledged to continue supporting and empowering the branches in their human rights advocacy efforts.
The event also featured notable speakers, including Ayo Obe, the guest speaker, who shared insights on the importance of upholding human rights and the role of legal professionals in this endeavor.
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