The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), through its Citizens’ Liberties Committee, today, 19th September, 2024, secured the release of seven ‘End Bad Governance’ protesters who had been unjustly detained in Kano since August. This success underscores the NBA’s unwavering commitment to upholding justice, safeguarding civil liberties, and ensuring the protection of the constitutional rights of all Nigerians. 
The NBA’s Citizens’ Liberties Committee, led by Chairman Nuhu Egya and renowned activist and member of the committee, Deji Adeyanju in collaboration with Hope Behind Behind Bars Africa played a pivotal role in today’s intervention. Their determined efforts ensured that these individuals, who were peacefully exercising their right to protest for better governance, were freed after months of unlawful detention. This intervention marks a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle for justice and human rights in Nigeria.
The ‘End Bad Governance’ protests, which have been a nationwide call for improved governance and accountability, represent the voices of many Nigerians who demand transparency, efficiency, and accountability in leadership. Despite the peaceful nature of these protests, several participants have faced harsh crackdowns, including arbitrary arrests and prolonged detentions.
The protesters in Kano were among those who faced these injustices, simply for expressing their constitutionally protected rights to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly.
The Nigerian Bar Association, through its Citizens’ Liberties Committee, recognizes the importance of safeguarding these rights and remains resolute in defending the civil liberties of all Nigerians. 
The successful release of these seven protesters serves as a clear message: the unlawful detention of individuals exercising their rights will not go unchallenged. While this victory in Kano is a significant step forward, it is important to recognize that the work is far from over. Across Nigeria, many ‘End Bad Governance’ protesters continue to face legal challenges, with some still held in custody. The Nigerian Bar Association remains deeply committed to addressing these cases, ensuring that no one is left behind, and continuing the fight for justice in every corner of the nation.
The NBA’s Citizens’ Liberties Committee will continue to monitor these cases and provide legal support to ensure that justice prevails. Our goal is not only to secure the release of unlawfully detained individuals but also to hold accountable those who violate the rights of Nigerians.
The NBA stands firm in its belief that the rule of law is the foundation of a just society.
No individual should be unlawfully detained or persecuted for peacefully demanding better governance. The protection of civil liberties is fundamental to maintaining a democratic society, and the NBA remains vigilant in its efforts to defend these rights.
As an association of legal professionals, the NBA will continue to use all available legal avenues to promote justice, challenge unlawful detentions, and protect the freedoms enshrined in our constitution.
The Nigerian Bar Association will remain at the forefront of the fight to ensure that the voices of Nigerians are heard and their rights are upheld. We will continue working tirelessly in Kano and across the nation to support ‘End Bad Governance’ protesters and all individuals who face injustice. This is a collective struggle, and we will leave no one behind.
