The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the shocking abduction of Hon. Justice Ebiyerin Goodness Omukoro of the Bayelsa State High Court, who was kidnapped on Saturday, June 21, 2025, in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.
In an official statement signed by the NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the Association described the incident as “an assault on the judiciary” and a stark reminder of the nation’s worsening security architecture.
“How a sitting judge was abducted by individuals reportedly in uniform is a further indictment of our security framework. It paints a troubling picture of the state of law and order and a direct threat to the integrity of our judicial system,” the statement read.
The NBA emphasized that the dignity of the human person must remain sacrosanct, stressing that the safety of judicial officers is not only essential for their personal protection but also critical for the preservation of the rule of law and public confidence in justice delivery.
According to the NBA, the Bayelsa Bar is already in contact with the NBA National Secretariat, and efforts are ongoing to coordinate responses and support from relevant quarters.
“We therefore call upon security agencies and the Bayelsa State Government to redouble their efforts and ensure the immediate and unconditional release of Hon. Justice E.G. Omukoro,” the NBA urged.
The Association extended its thoughts and prayers to the family of Justice Omukoro, the legal community in Bayelsa, and the State Judiciary at large during this trying time.
“This act is unacceptable. We will not remain silent while the sanctity of our courts and the safety of judicial officers are so brazenly undermined,” Osigwe added.
The Nigerian Bar Association reaffirmed its commitment to standing in solidarity with members of the judiciary and ensuring that acts of intimidation, violence, or abduction against legal practitioners are met with united resistance.
