The Managing Partner S.P.A Ajibade & Co has reacted to the grievous assault and dehumanising treatment meted out to a member of the NBA Lagos Branch, Mr. Temitayo Igunnu, by Soldiers.
Igunnu was on the 6th Feb., around Apongbon, Lagos battered by some soldiers attached to Bonny Camp barracks while on his way to work.

Condemning the actions by the soldiers against the young lawyer, Dr Ajibade, SAN, is calling on all NBA branches to always seek redress in court against any assault against its members noting that lawyers deserve better.

He said: “I am told this incident was the result of an altercation, arising from a minor traffic accident.

“I have spoken with Mr. Igunnu this morning and his report of what transpired is disheartening.

“I am happy that the leadership of the Lagos Branch of the NBA was able to intervene to secure Mr. Igunnu’s eventual release. I have also read, with satisfaction, the statement issued by the Lagos Branch Chairman, indicating the Branch’s intention to follow up on this incident and ensure that the perpetrators of this conduct are brought to book.

“The recurrence of these incidents of brutalisation of citizens by the security agencies is rampant and it becomes worse when lawyers are the victims.

“It is for this reason that I urge Mr. Igunnu and the Lagos Branch not to relent in their efforts to pursue redress for this conduct through the courts, no matter how long it takes.

“The concern as to the length of time it might take to vindicate Mr. Igunnu’s rights is a pertinent one.

“When I had an opportunity to address the Bar Bench Forum of the NBA Calabar Branch at its recent Law Week, I urged their Lordships to pay particular attention and grant accelerated hearing to any Fundamental Human Rights applications brought before them involving the brutalisation of lawyers by the security agencies and to award significant damages where liability is established.

“The purpose of this recommendation is a belief that lawyers are entitled to special protection, not for their own sake, but so that society would continue to have confidence in their ability to protect the human rights of the ordinary citizens. When lawyers are treated in this manner without consequence, it portends great danger to society as a whole.

“If we, as lawyers are not able to protect our fundamental rights and liberties as citizens, then what hope is there for the common man,” he asked.