NBA’ll hold FG, State govts to account under my watch – Osigwe, SAN

Reeling out his agenda, Osigwe said: “As legal practitioners, we occupy a unique position in society, one that enables us to effect positive changes in society and to uphold the principles of justice, equity, and fairness. We must ensure that the law serves all Nigerians, irrespective of their background, status or affiliation.

“Under my watch, the NBA shall hold Governments at all levels accountable, including and especially the Federal and State Governments. We will work towards ensuring that government policies and programmes meet the yearnings and aspirations of our people, as they relate to the provision of good governance, transparency in financial expenditures, reducing drastically the cost of governance and ensuring that the welfare of our people is given topmost priority.

“We will strive to ensure that government responds appropriately to the challenges of security of lives and properties, respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms, the provision of gainful employment and all the basic amenities of life, especially food, shelter, clothing, qualitative and affordable education, healthcare, and other infrastructure as well as access to justice.”

Osigwe who was also a former General Secretary of the association, further stated that under his leadership “the NBA shall be vocal and constantly speak up on issues affecting the legal profession and the administration of Justice.”

He assured that the NBA shall constructively engage with the various tiers of f government and other stakeholders by presenting proposals and blueprints for dealing with issues as they arise.”

“As we take on the mantle of leadership, we are well aware of the enormous responsibilities that lie ahead. We are optimistic. We know that with your support and co-operation, we will meet the challenges head-on and transform them into opportunities for the growth and progress of our members.”

Osigwe also promised to tackle the problem of illegal detention of innocent citizens by security agencies.

It is believed that thousands of citizens are suffering in unlawful custody in many detention facilities/centres in all the States of the Federation. The Association no doubt has a crucial role to play in monitoring and ensuring that the requisite authorities carry out their statutory duties of inspecting Police Stations and other detention facilities in the various States of Nigeria and the FCT.

“We shall therefore establish a Citizens’ Liberties Committee, CLC,. The Committee shall collaborate with the NBA branches to liaise with the Chief Judges of the States and the FCT to ensure that all Police stations and other detention facilities in each State of the Federation and the FCT are visited and inspected by Magistrates and Judges once a month, in accordance with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Law,” he stated.