BY PHILIP JEREMIAH
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch has initiated a symbolic boycott of court proceedings across Bayelsa State to demand the immediate release of Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro, a serving judge of the Bayelsa State High Court, who was abducted on Saturday.
The protest followed the judge’s kidnapping by masked gunmen at Kilimanjaro Eatery, directly opposite Ekeki Park in Yenagoa.
He was reportedly returning from an engagement in Warri, Delta State, when the assailants seized him and took him to an undisclosed location. His whereabouts remain unknown as of press time.
Describing the boycott as a solemn, yet firm expression of solidarity, the NBA said the move was aimed at drawing urgent attention to the plight of the abducted judge and calling on security agencies to intensify efforts towards securing his safe release.
“This incident is a direct attack on the judiciary and a grave threat to the rule of law,” said Barr. Somina Johnbull, Chairman of the NBA, Yenagoa Branch.
“It is not just about Justice Omukoro as an individual, it undermines the entire justice system.”
While the association initially planned a protest march to major security agencies, it instead opted for a symbolic court shutdown and press briefing, to maintain focus on the call for the judge’s safe return.
On Monday morning, lawyers across the state abstained from court appearances.
In Yenagoa, legal practitioners assembled at the High Court Headquarters in full robes, including collars and bibs, in a powerful show of unity and resistance.
The NBA also prepared protest letters to be delivered to the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), urging swift and decisive intervention in the case.
Johnbull emphasised that the boycott was a matter of professional integrity, not confrontation.
“Our action is not meant to disrupt legal proceedings, but to protect the very institution of justice. Judges must be able to carry out their duties free from the threat of abduction or violence.”
The association assured that it would continue to monitor developments and pursue all lawful avenues until Justice Omukoro is safely reunited with his family and returns to the bench.
