In a step towards fostering collaboration between the legal and labor sectors, the Nigerian Bar
Association (NBA) hosted the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) at its headquarters on Thursday, September 12th, 2024.The NLC delegation, led by its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, was warmly received by the newly elected NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), and his team.
The meeting provided a platform for both organizations to engage in meaningful discussions on the rising economic challenges faced by Nigerians, particularly the increasing inflation and cost of living. The leaders reiterated the importance of peaceful protest as a fundamental right in any democracy and emphasized their shared responsibility to ensure that these rights are respected and safeguarded.
During the visit, Comrade Joe Ajaero reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to working alongside the NBA in promoting the rights of workers and all Nigerians. He stressed the significance of a strong legal presence in protecting citizens from abuse, ensuring freedom of association, and upholding democratic norms. The NLC President also commended the NBA’s role in defending the integrity of the legal system and expressed optimism that this collaboration will lead to meaningful change in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape.
In his remarks, NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN) highlighted the NBA’s determination to uphold the Rule of Law and strengthen Nigeria’s legal institutions. He assured the NLC of the NBA’s readiness to partner with them in advocating for policies that respect citizens’ rights and promote social justice. Osigwe also emphasized the reactivation of the NBA’s Pro-Bono Department to ensure that indigent citizens facing persecution can be offered free legal representation at all times.
Both organizations condemned the criminalization of civil protests and agreed that sustainable progress in Nigeria can only be achieved by adhering to the principles of the Rule of Law at all levels of governance. The NBA remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of all citizens and will continue to advocate for policies that promote justice,
fairness, and the well-being of the common man.
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