Newly inaugurated Abuja NBA Chairman, Ebute, calls for total independence of judiciary to strengthen democracy

The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Abuja branch on Wednesday inaugurated a new Chairman, Moses Alfred Ebute, SAN to steer the affairs of the Association.

The development followed the death of the branch’s Chairman, Dr. Mrs Hauwa Evelyn Shekarau on 15th September, 2021.

In his acceptance speech which took place in Abuja the Unity Bar new Chairman in his acceptance speech called for total independence of the judiciary, if Nigeria’s democracy must thrive, noting that no where in the world would democracy thrived, if the judiciary was contrived.

“May I join all men and women of goodwill to reiterate the call on the executive arm of government to ensure that the judiciary is fully independent.”

Commending Nigeria judges who ensures justice is served in an unhealthy environment like Nigeria, he said their commitment was responsible for the little growth of democracy, the country is witnessing, noting that there would be expeditious growth of democracy, if the judiciary was independent.

“That is one of the ways to promote and preserve our democracy. Let me quickly commend the Honourable Judges of the High Court in dispensing Justice, the difficult terrain under which they work not withstanding.

“I assure you that the Bar will always stand by you to give support and advice or suggestions where necessary.

He pledged Abuja Chapter’s commitment to protecting the rights/interest of the members of the Bar, but said they will not fail to mete the necessary punishment where any of the members is found wanting.

“To this end, I advice all members of the Bar to be law abiding and shun every act of professional misconduct.

“He concluded with a quote from the great orator and civil right activist, Rev. Martin Luther King Jnr who said when people get caught up with that which is right and they are willing to sacrifice for it, there is no stopping short of victory.

“We know what is right for our Bar and I am willing to make the necessary sacrifice.”

He commended the late predecessor who did all she could to unite all lawyers in FCT including the younger ones.

“I am deeply touched and still in shock on my consensus election as Chairman of our beloved Unity Bar.

“With boundless gratitude for the confidence reposed in me by all of you and with an unswerving resolve to honour that trust, I humbly accept my appointment as the Chairman of our prestigious Bar to serve out the term of our late Chairman, Dr. (Mrs.) Hauwa Evelyn Shekarau. May her gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace.”