The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called upon President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency to address the crisis engulfing various parts of the country.
Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, the president of the NBA, revealed this to journalists during a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday, highlighting the urgent need for decisive action in combating the rampant insecurity plaguing the country.
Maikyau stressed the necessity for substantial investments in security infrastructure, aligning with global standards while safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty. He emphasized that the current state of insecurity has led to widespread displacement of citizens and devastating impacts on businesses, eroding public trust in the government’s ability to address the crisis effectively.
“In this critical juncture where public confidence in the government’s commitment to tackling insecurity is at an all-time low, it is imperative for the President to engage with the populace transparently,” Maikyau stated. He urged for comprehensive measures tailored to the unique challenges of each region, without hesitation in allocating resources for security, in line with international best practices.
Maikyau also voiced concerns about the economic downturn exacerbated by the security crisis, with the devaluation of the Naira and soaring food prices further straining the livelihoods of Nigerians. He called upon President Tinubu to articulate concrete plans for economic recovery and declare a state of emergency to address the nation’s faltering economy.
Furthermore, the NBA president expressed readiness to challenge the Enhanced Trade Investment agreement between Nigeria and the United Kingdom if not reviewed, citing potential adverse effects on local businesses. He underscored the association’s commitment to protecting the interests of Nigerian entrepreneurs and ensuring a level playing field in the legal sector.
“We will not hesitate to seek legal recourse to contest any agreements that undermine the economic prospects of our nation,” Maikyau affirmed. “It is our duty to safeguard the interests of our citizens and hold accountable any actions that jeopardize their well-being.”
