The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has successfully secured the release of their colleague, Okafor Vincent Esq., following his arrest on controversial charges. According to a statement by the Association, the NBA, led by its President, Afam Josiah Osigwe SAN, responded swiftly to ensure due process was followed.
Okafor was arrested last week by officers from the Enugu State Police Command at his Lagos office, following allegations made by the Igwe of his town. The charges included inciting conflict in the community, chasing the Igwe with a machete, and harassing the community with dangerous weapons. Despite efforts by the NBA Lagos Branch, led by Vice Chairman Mrs. Esther Jimoh and NBA CLC Chairman Hon. Egya Nuhu Esq., to secure his release on bail, he was flown from Lagos to Enugu, where he was immediately arraigned before a magistrate and remanded in custody.
The report noted that upon learning of the arrest, NBA President Afam Osigwe SAN instructed the First Vice President, Sabastine Anyia Esq., to work with the NBA Enugu Branch Chairman, Mr. Anene Ojinta, and other stakeholders, including the NBA Eziagu Branch Chairman, Mr. Christian Ezemagu, to ensure the protection of Okafor’s rights and a fair legal process. Their swift intervention led to the granting of bail at the Enugu High Court.
The NBA team expressed relief at Okafor’s release, noting that friends and colleagues confirmed he had not left Lagos during the month of August, when the alleged incident occurred. However, as the matter is now before the court, the NBA refrains from further comment on the case.
The NBA remains dedicated to defending the rights of its members and Nigerians at large, working to prevent abuses of power. The association is confident that Okafor’s legal expertise, along with the support of his legal team, will ensure that justice prevails.