The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, has warned against using the planned October 20 protest demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu to disrupt judicial proceedings or derail ongoing political negotiations.
NBA President, Mr. Afam Osigwe, SAN, gave the warning on Thursday in Abuja while addressing journalists. He stressed that while citizens have the constitutional right to protest, such actions must not interfere with the rule of law or the independence of the judiciary.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress in the 2019 and 2023 elections, announced plans for a peaceful protest calling for Kanu’s release.
Kanu currently faces terrorism-related charges before Justice James Omotosho at the Federal High Court, Abuja, while discussions for a political resolution to his case continue among Southeast leaders and the Federal Government.
Osigwe said the NBA supports Nigerians’ right to assemble and express opinions but warned that such demonstrations must remain peaceful and lawful.
“The NBA respects every citizen’s right to demonstrate. However, we must ensure that ongoing judicial proceedings are not undermined or politicised,” Osigwe said.
He noted that law enforcement agencies must safeguard peaceful protesters while preventing hoodlums from hijacking demonstrations. “We must balance freedom of expression with maintaining law and order,” he added.
Osigwe expressed concern that protests could escalate and disrupt efforts by Southeast leaders, including governors and representatives of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who are already engaging with the Federal Government to secure Kanu’s release through dialogue.
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“The demonstration should not undermine the political process or disrupt consultations already underway,” he warned. “It’s better to allow leaders handling the situation to continue their efforts without external interference.”
The NBA president acknowledged Sowore’s advocacy for Kanu’s freedom but urged him and his supporters to consider the sensitivity of the issue.
“While I appreciate Sowore’s intentions, we must handle this process with care. Demonstrations can easily spiral beyond control and worsen tensions,” he said.
He emphasized that constructive engagement remains the best route to resolving Kanu’s case and achieving peace. “This issue requires dialogue, not confrontation,” Osigwe added.
The lawyer reaffirmed that the NBA supports peaceful advocacy but cautioned that any protest that threatens stability or disrupts court proceedings could harm ongoing efforts to find a political solution.
“The court has adjourned the matter to next week. We should avoid any action that may complicate or inflame the situation,” Osigwe concluded.
