By Our Correspondent
National News – Bassey Otu has called on legal practitioners to actively defend Nigeria’s democracy by challenging unconstitutional actions and upholding the rule of law.
The message was delivered on Thursday in Calabar, where the governor, represented by Deputy Governor Peter Odey, addressed members of the Nigerian Bar Association during their 2026 Bar Week.
Speaking on the theme “Rule of Law: Safeguarding Democracy, Ensuring Accountability,” the state government emphasised that lawyers play a critical role in protecting democratic institutions.
Odey described legal practitioners as custodians of justice and urged them to remain courageous in confronting abuses of power.
According to him, accountability is essential to sustaining democracy, stressing that legal professionals must continue to speak truth to authority.
The event, held in Calabar, brought together key stakeholders in the legal profession, including NBA leaders and senior advocates.
Chairman of the NBA Calabar Branch, Enome Amatey, raised concerns about increasing disregard for the rule of law in Nigeria.
He pointed to issues such as disobedience to court orders and threats to institutional independence, urging lawyers to remain vigilant and proactive.
Also speaking, NBA President Afam Osigwe, represented by Ntufam Mba Ukweni, commended the branch for choosing a timely theme, especially as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
He encouraged lawyers to uphold constitutional values and maintain high ethical standards in their practice.
The Bar Week, organised by the Calabar branch planning committee led by Paul Ebiala, served as a platform to reflect on the legal profession’s responsibilities.
Participants were urged to engage in meaningful discussions that strengthen democracy and promote accountability.
In closing, Senior Advocate Joe Agi praised the state government’s support for the legal community and commended organisers for a successful event.
The gathering reinforced the importance of the legal profession in safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic future.
