Nigerian Bar Association intervenes to free unjustly detained lawyer in Imo State

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), led by President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, has once again demonstrated its dedication to safeguarding the rights of legal professionals and ensuring justice prevails. In a swift and decisive move, the NBA successfully secured the release of Lilian Oluchi Eze, a lawyer based in Benin, who was wrongfully detained by the police at the Tiger Base Unit, State CID, Owerri, Imo State.

Lilian had traveled to Owerri to facilitate the bail process for her sister when an unexpected and alarming situation unfolded. Instead of being allowed to carry out her legal duty, she found herself accused of kidnapping and taken into custody.

The matter quickly caught the attention of the NBA’s leadership, prompting immediate intervention. The association’s 1st Vice President and Chairman of the Human Rights Institute, Sabastine Anyia, Esq., wasted no time in coordinating efforts with the NBA Owerri Branch Chairman, Chief Chris Ihentuge, and senior members of the branch. Together, they mobilized a team to engage with the authorities at the Tiger Base Unit, firmly demanding her release.

Thanks to their prompt response and legal advocacy, Lilian was freed later that same day, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.

Speaking on the incident, Mr. Anyia reaffirmed the NBA’s steadfast commitment to defending legal practitioners and promoting human rights.

This intervention serves as a reminder of the crucial role the NBA plays in safeguarding legal professionals from rights violations, reinforcing the association’s ongoing mission to champion justice in Nigeria.