Nigerian Bar Association Demands Apology from Sacked APC Chairman over Derogatory Remarks

The leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Rivers State has called on Tony Okocha, the sacked Caretaker Committee Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, to issue an immediate apology to Justices Sika Aprioku, C.N. Wali, and G.O. Ollor of the Rivers State High Court. This demand comes after Okocha allegedly made derogatory remarks about the judges.

According to a statement issued by the chairpersons of the eight NBA branches in Rivers State, Okocha referred to the Rivers State judiciary as a “supermarket” after he was dismissed by a judgment from Justice Aprioku in a suit filed by an APC chieftain. The statement, jointly signed by NBA Port Harcourt Branch Chair Cordelia Eke, Isiokpo NBA Branch Chair Cashmia Ofurum, and six others, emphasized that the judges are apolitical and adhere to a strict code of conduct that limits unnecessary public interactions.

The NBA criticized Okocha for using offensive language that undermines the judiciary and the legal profession, suggesting instead that he should have “pursued an appeal.” The statement also urged “litigants and the public to avoid harassing judges and to focus their efforts on legitimate legal channels.”

The NBA’s demand for an apology is a clear indication of its commitment to upholding the integrity and independence of the judiciary. The association’s stance is also a reminder to public officials to respect the judiciary and refrain from making disparaging remarks about judges.

As the controversy surrounding Okocha’s remarks continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether he will heed the NBA’s call for an apology. One thing is certain, however: the NBA’s stance has sent a strong message about the importance of respecting the judiciary and upholding the rule of law.