The phrase Pro Bono is a latin expression that means ‘for the public good’. The Nigerian Bar Association was established to promote the rule of law and champion the cause of justice in Nigeria. In fulfilling this mandate, the NBA at both National and Branch levels provide several pro bono schemes. Pro Bono does not mean free-of-charge.

In line with the duty of the Nigerian Bar Association to promote free, fair, credible and inclusive elections to Nigerians, the NBA President, Mr. Yakubu C. Maikyau, SAN on the 13th February, 2023, proposed the engagement of volunteer legal practitioners willing to provide pro bono services in electoral matters including the prosecution of electoral offences arising from the 2023 general elections.

The NBA President noted at the recent National Executive Council meeting which held in Kebbi State the several verifiable instances of electoral malpractice and offences which were documented during the conduct of the elections on the 25th February, 2023 and 18th March, 2023. The President restated the commitment of the lawyers under the scheme to prosecute both civil and criminal infractions arising from the elections.

In addition to the public benefit, the Scheme is designed to provide much needed experience and mentoring opportunities to younger lawyers by senior, experienced lawyers. Volunteer Practitioners who wished to register under the scheme were asked to present expressions of interest to the NBA Secretariat by Friday, 17th February, 2023.

Tyolmun Aondona writes from Benue State