By Umar Faruk
Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria
October 5, 2025(Series News Online)
The Equity Bar of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Birnin Kebbi Branch has announced a four-day court boycott in protest of the kidnapping of one of its members, Isiyak Muhammad Danjuma, ESQ, and the worsening security situation in the country. The branch made this announcement after an emergency stakeholders' meeting held on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
According to the branch, the kidnapping of their colleague on October 1, 2025, along the Ibeto-Birnin Kebbi route in Magama LGA of Niger State, is a clear indication of the deteriorating security situation in the country. The branch expressed deep concern over the incident and the increasing wave of insecurity across the nation.
In a statement signed by Aminu Hassan, ESQ, Chairman NBA Birnin Kebbi Branch, and Aminu Saidu Diri, ESQ, Branch Secretary, the branch resolved to take the following actions: boycott all courts from Tuesday, October 7 to Friday, October 10, 2025; suspend handling terrorism-related cases until further notice; intensify advocacy and engagement with relevant authorities to ensure the safe release of their colleague and restore security.
The branch also advised lawyers to refrain from traveling to areas identified as terrorist hotspots, specifically naming Bagudo, Suru, Kamba, Bunza, Kangiwa, Dirin Dajin, Riba, Kanya, and Augie Local Government Areas. "In view of the prevailing insecurity within our state, certain areas have regrettably become identified as terrorist hotspots... consequently, it is hereby directed that lawyers should refrain from traveling to or undertaking any official or personal engagements within these areas in the interest of their personal safety," the statement read.
"We unequivocally condemn the unfortunate kidnapping of our colleague and demand that the government and security agencies take decisive measures to restore safety and public confidence across the country," the statement read. "We urge everyone to remain united and steadfast in the pursuit of justice, peace, and the protection of human dignity."
The branch called on the government and security agencies to rise to their constitutional responsibilities and ensure the immediate and safe release of their colleague. They expressed appreciation for the solidarity and support received from members, the judiciary, the press, and well-meaning Nigerians.
The branch assured that they would liaise with the judiciary to make arrangements for the hearing of cases involving lawyers at safer and proximate venues or jurisdictions to minimize the need for travel to unsafe locations.
Tags
Insecurity