NLC, NBA Partner To Offer Free Legal Services To Nigerians

The NLC has joined forces with the NBA to offer free legal services to Nigerians aimed at defending citizens’ rights and strengthening the rule of law.

The NBA president, Afam Osigwe, SAN, speaking during a visit by a delegation of the NLC in Abuja, recently announced the reactivation of the NBA’s Pro-Bono Department to provide legal assistance to indigent citizens facing persecution or injustice.

“The protection of citizens’ rights is central to our mission as legal practitioners. By collaborating with the NLC, we aim to ensure that all Nigerians, regardless of their status, have access to justice,” Osigwe said.

The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, praised the NBA’s initiative, emphasizing the importance of providing legal protection for workers and other vulnerable groups. He stressed that the Labour and legal sectors can work together to ensure a thriving democracy and that governance is anchored on justice, fairness, and accountability.

“We believe that by working closely with the NBA, we can ensure that citizens’ rights are protected and that there is justice for all, especially for the marginalized,” Ajaero stated, expressing optimism on the benefits it holds for the Nigerian workers and the entire citizens.

He also commended the NBA’s role in defending the integrity of the legal system. 

The NLC and NBA both condemned the increasing trend of criminalizing peaceful protests in the country, calling it a dangerous attack on democracy.

They urged the government to respect citizens’ rights to express themselves and to engage in peaceful demonstrations without fear of persecution.

“Without the rule of law, there can be no democracy, and without democracy, the rights of citizens are at risk,” they warned.