Yenagoa, Bayelsa State | July 4, 2025 –
In what has been described as a timely and impactful intervention, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, undertook a high-level solidarity visit to the Bayelsa Bar on Thursday, July 3, 2025, following the troubling abduction of Hon. Justice Ebiyerin Goodness Omukoro, who had been held hostage for 12 days.
In a remarkable turn of events, Justice Omukoro was released later that evening, with the news breaking shortly after the NBA delegation concluded its visit, bringing relief and celebration across the legal community.
NBA President Leads Strategic Engagements
The NBA President, accompanied by Mr. Sammie Somiari, SAN, and his Executive Assistant, was received at the NBA Yenagoa Branch Secretariat by key stakeholders, including NBA Assistant Publicity Secretary Ebiere Emmanuella Ekpese; Yenagoa Branch Chairman Mr. Clement B. Kekemeke; Sagbama Branch Chairman Mr. Ogheneochuko J. Sampson; former national leader Kelvin Ejelonu, and several other leaders and members of the Bar.
The President’s itinerary included a symbolic visit to Justice Omukoro’s courtroom, where he held an interactive session with elders of the Bar, discussing the legal and moral implications of the abduction and outlining collaborative security measures.
“An attack on one judge is an attack on the entire justice system. We must never allow fear to silence the Bench or the Bar,” Mazi Osigwe stated passionately.
The NBA team later met with the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Daniel A. Ayah, who represented the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye.
At the Bayelsa State Police Command, the Commissioner of Police briefed the delegation on the progress of rescue operations, assuring them that efforts were yielding positive results.
At the Government House, the NBA was hosted by Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who commended the Bar for standing firmly with the judiciary.
“The NBA’s presence here today is not just symbolic—it is strategic. It shows the profession takes justice and judicial security seriously,” he remarked.
Visit Culminates with Encouragement to Omukoro’s Family
The visit concluded with a private stop at Justice Omukoro’s residence, where the NBA President consoled and encouraged the judge’s wife, daughter, and relatives. “You are not alone. The entire legal profession stands with your family in this trying time,” Mazi Osigwe assured.
Later that evening, in a press briefing by the Department of State Services (DSS), Justice Omukoro was presented to the public in stable condition, marking a victorious end to a distressing ordeal.
NBA Applauds Security Agencies and Bayelsa Bar
Reacting to the release, Mr C.B. Kekemeke, Chairman of the NBA Yenagoa Branch, stated:
“The President’s visit was fortuitous, deeply reassuring, and a clear signal that the NBA under his leadership does not shy away from real issues. We are grateful.”
The NBA, in an official statement, commended the Bayelsa State Police Command, DSS, Nigerian Army, and other agencies for their swift action. The Association also lauded the Bayelsa State Government and the unwavering Bayelsa Bar for their resilience and coordinated response.
NBA Leadership: Steady, Proactive, and Responsive
Since assuming office, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, has set a new tone for responsive and impactful leadership at the Bar. Within one year, his administration has championed:
- The implementation of a harmonised remuneration framework for lawyers.
- Stronger advocacy for judicial independence and welfare.
- Strategic partnerships with key institutions to protect lawyers’ rights.
- A renewed focus on young lawyers’ development and women’s representation in the profession.
“We must lead a Bar that is visible not just during conferences or elections, but one that speaks and acts where it matters most,” the NBA President affirmed during his visit.
Mazi Osigwe’s proactive leadership continues to resonate with lawyers across Nigeria, positioning the NBA as a more compassionate, courageous, and credible voice in the nation’s legal and democratic space.
Read More:
NBA‑AGC 2025 Registration Still On – Late, On‑Site & Virtual Options, Plus Subsidised Round‑Trip Flights
