NBA Insists On Diligent Prosecution Of Assaulted, Stripped Corps Member In Anambra
The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the assault on Ms Jennifer Elobor, a corps member in Anambra and
insisted on the prosecution of members of ‘Agunaechemba’ the Anambra state security outfit responsible
NBA disclosed its position in a Statement signed by Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN) and Dr Mobolaji Ojibara, its
President and General Secretary respectively on Wednesday
The Association said the act was degrading, inhumane, and a direct
violation of the victim’s dignity and fundamental human rights as guaranteed by
the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
It said nobody, whether
suspected of an offence or entirely innocent, deserved to be subjected
to such ‘barbaric’ treatment.
It said the incident highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive training,
reorientation, and continuous capacity-building of security operatives adding that respect for human rights, professionalism, and restraint must be
embedded in their conduct at all times.
“The NBA insists that the
perpetrators must be promptly and diligently prosecuted in accordance
with the law.
“Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, to serve as both redress for Ms. Elobor and deterrence against
similar abuses in the future.
“The NBA branches in Anambra State and the National Litigation
Committee are hereby directed to closely monitor this incident to
ensure justice is served,” it said.
The NBA said even though security agencies had the mandate to
apprehend criminals and maintain law and order, such powers must
never be exercised in a manner that tramples upon the rights of innocent
citizens.
The Bar commended the Anambra government for its swift action in identifying and arresting the operatives responsible adding that it reflected commendable responsiveness to public outrage.
