Enugu, Nigeria – The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe (SAN), has voiced deep concern over the escalating security crisis in the South-East, citing illegal detentions, extrajudicial killings, and widespread human rights abuses.

Speaking in an exclusive interview in Enugu, Osigwe condemned the growing lawlessness in the region, noting that the absence of local governance and the destruction of police stations have worsened the situation.

“The issue of security in the South-East should be taken seriously and given the due attention it deserves,” he stated. “Many communities no longer have a presence of local government, police stations have been destroyed, people are being kidnapped for ransom, and this has become the order of the day.”

He also criticized the practice of magistrates issuing remand orders without jurisdiction, leading to prolonged and unjust detentions. According to him, over 68 percent of prison inmates in Nigeria are awaiting trial, with many having spent more time in detention than they would have if convicted.

Osigwe urged Chief Judges across the country to ensure that magistrates do not grant indefinite remand orders without a return date for review.

“No person should be remanded without being charged to court,” he emphasized. “And courts that lack jurisdiction should stop the practice of granting indefinite remand.”

He encouraged victims of unjust detention to seek legal redress, adding that NBA lawyers are willing to provide pro bono services.

The NBA, he said, is actively engaging with relevant authorities to promote peace and security in the South-East through advocacy and legal interventions.