By Correspondent in Abuja.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has cautioned against using the planned October 20 protest for the release of Nnamdi Kanu to undermine ongoing judicial and political efforts aimed at resolving the matter.
NBA President, Mr. Afam Osigwe, SAN, gave the advice in an interview with journalists in Abuja on Thursday.
Our correspondent gathered that human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, had begun mobilising for a peaceful protest demanding the release of Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Sowore, who was the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2019 and 2023 elections, said the protest would be a peaceful call for justice.
However, Osigwe urged caution, stressing that while Nigerians have the constitutional right to peaceful protest, such actions must not interfere with the judicial process or ongoing political dialogue.
“The NBA, as an association, respects the rights of all Nigerians to demonstrate. The right to protest is part of the broader rights to freedom of expression and association,” Osigwe said.
“However, given that the matter is currently before a court, care must be taken not to undermine judicial proceedings or create the impression that the judiciary cannot be trusted to deliver justice.”
He noted that it is the responsibility of security agencies, particularly the police, to ensure that any protest remains peaceful and is not hijacked by hoodlums.
The senior advocate also warned against politicising Kanu’s trial or disrupting the ongoing political engagements aimed at finding a lasting resolution.
“I understand that South-East leaders, including governors and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, are engaging with the Federal Government to find a political solution to this issue. Demonstrations should not be allowed to jeopardise that process,” he said.
Osigwe commended Sowore’s concern over Kanu’s continued detention and acknowledged that many Nigerians desire a political resolution. However, he emphasised that such efforts must be handled constructively to prevent escalation.
“We must be careful that demonstrations do not spiral out of control or become infiltrated by those who may exploit them for other purposes,” he warned.
He maintained that dialogue and engagement by regional leaders remained the best path forward.
“This is a sensitive matter. Efforts should be channelled toward peaceful engagement with the government rather than protests that could create security risks or worsen the situation,” Osigwe added.
He noted that the court has adjourned Kanu’s case to next week, expressing optimism that both legal and political efforts would lead to a fair resolution.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
