By Thompson Eferakeya

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Benin Branch, on Sunday condemned in strong terms what it called “unprovoked, senseless and cowardly act, which is a clear violation of human rights and the rule of law,” by political thugs and hoodlums sympathetic to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, during which law abiding citizens in the state, including some lawyers were violently attacked and molested on Thursday.

In a statement marked NBA/BN/DT/PL.4/7/21A and jointly signed by the Chairman, Chief Nosa Francis Edo-Osagie and Publicity Secretary, Festus Osagie Usiobaifo, KSM, the Benin Branch of the NBA stated that that was “alarmed and appalled by the recent attack on our members, particularly the brutal assault on Israel Idahosa, Esq. on Thursday, 18th day of July, 2024, at the Benin Bar secretariat, by a group of marauding party men who claim to be supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC), while performing their lawful business at the Benin Bar secretariat.”

The NBA added that “The mob of protesters led by Mr. Tony Kabaka, while engaging in a disruptive protest, suddenly stormed the NBA premises through Sapele Road and descended on Mr. Israel Idahosa”, just because he wore a cap bearing the name of another party.

The NBA declared that it remains a non-partisan and apolitical organization, saying its membership is diverse and inclusive, comprising individuals from various political backgrounds and beliefs.

“Our focus is on promoting the rule of law, justice, and human rights, and not on advancing any political agenda.

“Ipso facto, we call on all relevant authorities to: Immediately investigate this incident and bring the perpetrators to justice, Take concrete steps to ensure the safety and security of our members, protect the rights of legal practitioners to practice law without fear or hindrance”.

The NBA warned that it “will not stand aloof while our members are attacked and intimidated. However, we urge members to be calm and go about their usual business as we have since reported the incident to the police for investigation even as we tinker with our own internal security measures.”