“Since they do not respect lawyers, let them defend themselves” -Lawyers Hail Arrest of Suspects Who Brutalised Abuja Lawyer Serving Court Process
The legal community across Nigeria has erupted in praise and relief following the arrest of individuals who attacked and brutalised a lawyer in Abuja while he was performing his lawful duty of serving court processes. The incident, which was widely condemned after a video of the assault circulated online, sparked outrage among lawyers and members of the public, with many demanding swift justice.
Lawyers have welcomed news of the suspects’ arrest, describing it as a significant step towards upholding the dignity of the legal profession and sending a clear message that assaults on legal practitioners will not be tolerated.
“This is the way to go for the Bar! Radical representation and prompt justice,” remarked Ayo Ademiluyi of the Radical Agenda Movement in the NBA, echoing the sentiments of many within the legal community.
Other lawyers called for stringent legal consequences for the attackers. “They should be charged to court and made to face the full wrath of the law,” stated Clement Ojotule.
Cyril Nkemjika Eziamaka, another legal practitioner, expressed disbelief at the audacity of the suspects, saying, “Too bad for someone who lives in Abuja to be that stupid to attack a lawyer.”
Several lawyers highlighted the need for the suspects to be remanded in custody pending trial. “This particular guy is in hot soup,” quipped Augustine Uwakwe, while another contributor, Nkasi Madumere, asserted, “A remand will be much appreciated while we await their conviction to prison.”
Many also called for the incident to serve as a deterrent to others who might contemplate similar acts. “The arrest is gladdening and reassuring. It will serve as deterrence to others,” said Abu Haneefah, while Prince Michael Osarodion added, “The arraignment should be publicised to warn the general public that no one should take laws into their hands, especially against lawyers.”
The assault sparked broader discussions about the safety of legal practitioners in Nigeria. Some lawyers suggested that the suspects should represent themselves in court, given their blatant disregard for the legal profession. “Since they do not respect lawyers, let them defend themselves,” remarked Unyime Akpaba, though others, like Augustine Uwakwe, cautioned that constitutional rights to legal representation remain intact, regardless of public outrage.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has been praised for its swift response and is being urged to follow the case to its logical conclusion. “The NBA should wield her influence in this matter. The normal ‘charge and bail’ procedure shouldn’t be allowed to happen,” warned Joshua Nnanna Iteshi.
The arrest of the suspects, whose identities have not yet been formally released by law enforcement, comes amid growing concerns about attacks on lawyers and court officials across the country.
Lawyers have called for the suspects to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, with some demanding additional civil actions for damages. “A civil action should follow suit for monetary damages,” suggested Dare Komolafe, while others stressed the need to set an example. “They should be used as scapegoats. Enough is enough,” declared Chukwuemeka Clement.
