Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN, the newly elected President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has announced the establishment of a Citizens’ Liberties Committee (CLC) to collaborate with NBA branches and ensure monthly inspections of police stations and other detention facilities across the country.
During his inaugural address, Osigwe expressed concern over the plight of thousands of citizens who are believed to be suffering in unlawful custody in various detention centers throughout the nation. He emphasized the crucial role of the NBA in monitoring and ensuring that the relevant authorities carry out their statutory duties of inspecting these facilities.
The CLC will work closely with NBA branches to liaise with the Chief Judges of the States and the Federal Capital Territory, ensuring that magistrates and judges visit and inspect all police stations and detention facilities once a month, as mandated by the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Law.
Furthermore, the Committee will direct the Human Rights Committee of each NBA branch to accompany chief magistrates and judges during these monthly inspections. Citizens will also be encouraged to participate in the monitoring process and report any observations through the Human Rights Committee of their local NBA branch.
The Citizens’ Liberties Committee will be chaired by Nuhu Egya, with Malachy Ugwumadu serving as the Alternate Chair. Other members include Inibehe Effiong, Deji Adeyanju, and Maxwell Opara.
By introducing monthly inspections of police stations and detention facilities, the NBA President aims to safeguard the rights and liberties of citizens, prevent unlawful detentions, and promote transparency and accountability in the criminal justice system. This initiative underscores the NBA’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the fundamental rights of all Nigerians.
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