Wednesday, 10 July 2013

Rivers Crisis: Let court decide, NBA tells warring parties

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

ABUJA - The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Wednesday, said it was very disturbed by the turnout of events in Rivers State.

In a statement, Wednesday, by its national President, Mr Okey Wali, SAN, the umbrella body of legal practitioners in the country noted that “the political differences in Rivers State until now have been in the courts, which was the right and proper way to settle disputes in any civilized society.”

It said that “the latest twist of violence is a dangerous dimension that must be condemned very strongly and quickly.

“The NBA therefore appeals to the parties to sheathe their swords and return to the courts, where they have been, for adjudication of any disputes between them.

[caption id="attachment_403063" align="alignnone" width="412"]House of trouble—Top left: Hon. Evans Bapakaye in a scuffle with  Mobile Police officers during the fight at the Rivers State House of Assembly yesterday in Port Harcourt. Photos: Nwankpa Chijioke House of trouble— : Hon. Evans Bapakaye in a scuffle with Mobile Police officers during the fight at the Rivers State House of Assembly yesterday in Port Harcourt. Photos: Nwankpa Chijioke[/caption]

“The NBA calls on the Federal Government of Nigeria and security agencies to do all that is lawful in ensuring the restoration of peace and tranquility in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Not after all the investments to ensure that peace and economic growth returned to Port Harcourt, which was the case before this crisis.  The rule of law must prevail, and there must be no sacred cows, as nobody is above the law.

“The NBA emphasizes that the security agencies must not only be above board but must be seen to be above board, in carrying out their lawful duties.  At all times, the interest and well being of the good people of Rivers State must remain paramount.

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