Civil society organisations (CSOs) in Nigeria have urged the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to establish a formal court observation system to promote public confidence in the judicial process.
This call follows Afam Osigwe, NBA president’s support for the rule of law by attending the arraignment of Omoyele Sowore, a human rights and pro-democracy campaigner, at the Federal High Court in Abuja, a statement jointly signed by the CSOs stated.
The CSOs, including Media Rights Agenda, Yiaga Africa, and Global Rights, praised Osigwe’s courageous act, which demonstrated the legal profession’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring justice. They recognised this action as a significant step towards promoting public confidence in the judiciary.
The CSOs urged the NBA to institutionalise court observation and establish dedicated legal monitoring teams to undertake trial observations. They also urged the body to advocate for Jjdicial reforms and ensure the protection of human rights defenders, while challenging the weaponisation of the Cybercrime Act against activists and journalists.
The CSOs emphasised the collective responsibility of legal practitioners, civil society, and citizens in preserving democracy and the rule of law. They expressed their readiness to support the NBA in ensuring the success of this initiative.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
