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By Madu Obi
Lawyers belonging to all the branches of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Anamnbra State have embarked on a one-day boycott of courts to press home their demand for release of their colleague abducted by gunmen.
Mr. Chukwubuikem Azoro, who is the Secretary of NBA Idemili Branch, was kidnapped by gunmen at Abagana, Njikoka local government area around 8:30 pm last Saturday and has not been released.
Mr. Chukwubuikem Obianyo, the Idemili branch Publicity Secretary of NBA revealed that Azoro's captors had demanded a ransom for his release, although he did not state the amount.
Reacting on the development, the lawyers said their decision to boycott courts was to enable them pursue the immediate release of Azoro.
Chairman of Committee of Chairmen and Secretaries of NBA branches in Anambra State, Mr. I.C. Nsofor said the state wide boycott was to support a similar action already taken by the Idemili branch of NBA.
A statement issued by the lawyers read in part: “In response to this distressing situation, the members of the Idemili Branch have unanimously resolved to take a stand against such criminal acts.
"Therefore, all members of the NBA Idemili Branch shall be boycotting appearances in all courts within and outside our jurisdiction.
"Additionally, members of Idemili branch pledge to abstain from representing individuals charged with kidnapping or armed robbery until further notice.
“This decision is not taken lightly, but it reflects our unwavering commitment to justice and the safety of our members and the community at large.
"We call upon the relevant authorities to expedite efforts to secure the safe release of Mr. Azoro and to take decisive action against the perpetrators of this heinous crime.
“We urge the public to join us in condemning such acts of violence and to stand in solidarity with the victim and his family during this difficult time.”
A senior lawyer, Mr. Ernest Uwanaka while condemning Azoro’s kidnap, called on Anambra State governor, Prof Soludo, as well as the State Police Commissioner to ensure the lawyer’s safe return.
Uwanaka, who is also the Secretary of NBA Idemili Branch Human Rights Committee, called for unconditional release of the Branch Secretary.
He urged the governor and the new Commissioner of Police in the state, Nnaghe Obono Itam, to assist the NBA to secure the release of its member, and beef up security in the state to protect the general public, especially legal practitioners and judicial officers whose lives have become endangered due to the nature of their jobs.
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