NBA Condemns Criminalization of Defamation, Demands Release of Detained Individuals

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued a strong condemnation of the increasing tendency by law enforcement agencies to criminalize civil disputes, particularly those involving defamation and reputational damage. In a resolution adopted during its National Executive Council meeting in Awka, Anambra State, the NBA lamented the deployment of police powers in matters that should be resolved through civil legal processes, such as defamation suits.

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The criminalisation of essentially civil disputes undermines constitutional safeguards, including the rights to personal liberty, freedom of expression, and fair hearing.

The NBA's stance underscores a critical concern for the protection of fundamental human rights, including personal liberty, freedom of expression, and the right to a fair hearing. The association warned that the abuse of police powers in civil disputes could stifle lawful expression and public discourse, creating a chilling effect on citizens' willingness to voice their opinions. This is a crucial point for Nigeria, where public discourse and accountability are often challenged.

Activist Omoyele Sowore echoed these sentiments, criticizing the Nigeria Police Force for allegedly serving the interests of the influential and well-connected. While acknowledging that the NBA can sometimes be slow to act on human rights issues, Sowore emphasized the importance of its intervention in this case. He accused the police of abandoning their constitutional duty to protect Nigerians and acting as a mercenary force for the wealthy and powerful.

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The @PoliceNG, in particular, has abandoned its constitutional duty to protect Nigerians and instead operates like a mercenary force for the rich and well-connected oppressors in our country.

The NBA's call for restraint and adherence to due process is a vital reminder of the rule of law in Nigeria. The association's demand for the immediate release of individuals arrested solely for publications without established criminal offenses reinforces its commitment to upholding constitutional safeguards. This intervention by the NBA is particularly significant in a country where legal processes are sometimes manipulated to silence critics and suppress dissent.

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We will continue to resist the criminalisation of free speech. Billionaire content creator @TonyOElumelu and @PoliceNG are to take note, do the needful and act appropriately, the @NigBarAssoc has spoken!