The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Gwagwalada Branch, Mr. N. D. Abdulsalam, Esq., has expressed grave concern over the increasing incidents of assault and harassment of legal practitioners within Gwagwalada and its environs, describing the trend as unacceptable, unlawful, and inimical to the orderly administration of justice.
The Chairman noted that the Branch has recently recorded disturbing cases involving attacks on members in the course of their lawful activities.
Of particular concern is the recent assault on Mrs. Chelsea Okafor, Esq., a member of the Executive Committee of the NBA Gwagwalada Branch, who was reportedly attacked by a passerby while lawfully driving on a public road.
Upon being notified of the incident, the Branch immediately engaged the relevant law enforcement authorities and ensured that the matter received the urgent attention it deserved.
Following swift police intervention, the suspect was arrested, taken into custody, and subsequently will be arraigned before a competent court on Monday, 22nd June 2026.
Mr. Abdulsalam emphasized that while lawyers remain officers in the temple of justice and defenders of the rule of law, they are first and foremost citizens entitled to dignity, safety, and protection under the law.
He stressed that no society can claim to uphold the rule of law while tolerating violence, intimidation, or assault against individuals peacefully carrying out their lawful activities.
The Chairman further stated that the NBA Gwagwalada Branch will not treat with indifference any act of aggression directed at its members and will continue to deploy all lawful and institutional mechanisms available to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
The Branch particularly commends the Divisional Police Officer, Gwagwalada Division, CSP Aaron Haruna and his officers for their professionalism, prompt response, and cooperation in handling the matter.
The decisive steps taken by the Police have reinforced public confidence in the capacity of law enforcement agencies to respond effectively to complaints and ensure that justice is not only pursued but seen to be pursued.
The NBA Gwagwalada Branch calls on all residents to conduct themselves with civility, restraint, and respect for the rights of others.
Disagreements and misunderstandings, however they may arise, must never degenerate into acts of violence or self-help.
The Branch remains committed to safeguarding the welfare, dignity, and security of its members and will continue to monitor the prosecution of this matter with keen interest, while trusting that the judicial process will take its proper course.
Signed:
Yusuf J. Jibril, Esq.
Publicity Secretary,
NBA Gwagwalada Branch
