By Ike Augustine, Esq.
I went to the market to get a few items ahead of the NBA Conference in Port Harcourt. What began as an ordinary shopping trip unexpectedly turned into a moment of reflection.
Upon discovering that I am a lawyer, some of the traders appealed to me to take their message to the Nigerian Bar Association. Their message was simple but profound: the common man is looking up to the NBA.
They spoke about the growing impunity in our society, abuse of power, disregard for court orders, and the diminishing respect for the rule of law. They pleaded that the NBA Conference should not merely be another gathering of lawyers, speeches, elections, networking and social activities. They want the profession to confront the difficult realities facing ordinary Nigerians.
Their appeal reminded me that the NBA does not exist in isolation. The relevance of the legal profession is ultimately measured by its impact on society and by its courage to speak when justice is threatened.
As lawyers gather in Port Harcourt, perhaps we should listen not only to ourselves but also to the voices of the people outside the conference halls.
The common man is watching. The common man is waiting. And the common man expects the NBA to speak—not just about the law, but for the rule of law.
Ike Augustine, Esq.
Member, General Council of the Bar
