Enugu, September 8, 2023 – The Forerunners Group (TFG), a leading advocate for social justice, is deeply troubled by the lack of action and response from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) – both at the national and Enugu Chapter level – in the wake of the brutal murder of Barrister Oyibo Chukwu. The tragic incident occurred six months ago, three days before the 2023 presidential and National Assembly elections. Barrister Chukwu’s body was found burnt beyond recognition, an act of extreme violence. TFG expresses its disappointment and concern that no lawyer from the NBA has stepped forward to demand justice or show solidarity with the grieving family.
This is contained in press statement endorsed by Dr. Chukwudi Louis Ani, President, and Barr Emeka Agbapuonwu, Legal Adviser, The Forerunners Group, made available exclusively to GMTNewsng this evening.
Continuing, the statement said, Barrister Oyibo Chukwu was a highly esteemed legal professional with nearly four decades of experience. As the Labour Party senatorial candidate for Enugu East Senatorial District and former Chairman of the NBA Oji River Branch, Enugu State, his commitment to justice and equality was evident. Known for his philanthropy, he consistently provided free legal assistance, tirelessly fighting for the rights of the marginalized.
TFG is disheartened by the silence exhibited by the NBA, both at the national and Enugu Chapter levels, following the tragic murder of Barrister Oyibo Chukwu. A crime of this magnitude demands a prompt and unified response from the legal community. It is distressing to witness the absence of public statements or inquiries regarding his brutal fate, leaving his grieving widow and children without the necessary support.
The Forerunners Group underlines that the negligence displayed towards Barrister Oyibo Chukwu sends a chilling message to the legal profession – that any lawyer can be abandoned in their time of need. This unprecedented silence risks eroding the fundamental principles upon which the legal system relies, undermining the public’s trust in the lawyers who are entrusted with upholding justice.
TFG calls upon the NBA, both at the national and Enugu Chapter levels, to reflect on their roles and responsibilities as guardians of justice. It is imperative that they speak out and conduct a thorough investigation into the murder of Barrister Oyibo Chukwu. By taking action, they not only pay tribute to his memory but also demonstrate their unwavering commitment to the principles they have sworn to uphold.
TFG urges the NBA, both at the national and Enugu Chapter levels, to reevaluate their priorities and unequivocally demand justice for Barrister Oyibo Chukwu. Failing to do so not only contradicts their professional obligations but also jeopardizes the trust and confidence that society places in them. The legal community must stand united in solidarity, advocating for justice and providing unwavering support to their fellow lawyers. By seeking justice for Barrister Oyibo Chukwu, we strive to create a safer and more just society, where no lawyer or their family will ever face such abandonment in the future. GMTNews
