The ongoing annual conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) was on Monday disrupted by protests over the alleged unlawful imprisonment of Bright Ngene, a lawyer and human rights activist.
Eyewitnesses said a group of lawyers and activists stormed the conference venue, chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards demanding Ngene’s release. The protesters accused security agencies of using the judiciary to suppress dissenting voices and alleged that Ngene’s detention was politically motivated.
The demonstration forced a temporary pause in the day’s proceedings as security operatives moved in to restore order. Some senior lawyers reportedly intervened, appealing to the protesters to maintain calm while assuring them that the NBA leadership would take up the matter.
Ngene, known for his activism and criticism of government policies, was said to have been detained under controversial circumstances. His supporters argue that his continued incarceration is a threat to the rule of law and freedom of expression in Nigeria.
The NBA is yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but participants at the conference say the protest underscores the growing concern over the shrinking civic space and alleged misuse of state power against perceived critics.
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