Cross River: Lawyers urged to defend democracy against unconstitutional acts

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has restated his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting accountability in governance.

Otu, represented by the Deputy Governor, Peter Odey, made this known while addressing members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Calabar Branch, during the 2026 Bar Week held in Calabar on Thursday.

Speaking on the theme, “Rule of Law: Safeguarding Democracy, Ensuring Accountability,” Odey emphasised the critical role of lawyers in upholding justice and defending democratic values.

He described legal practitioners as “custodians of civilisation” and urged them to remain steadfast in challenging unconstitutional actions and resisting attempts to undermine justice.

“Legal practitioners are custodians of civilisation. Lawyers have critical roles in upholding justice and defending democratic values.

“I urge you to remain steadfast in challenging unconstitutional actions and resisting any attempts to undermine justice,” he said.

Odey further highlighted accountability as the “oxygen” of democracy and called on the Bar to serve as the conscience of the nation by speaking truth to power and upholding high ethical standards.

He also reaffirmed the administration’s respect for the independence of the judiciary as a co-equal arm of government.

“The administration of Governor Bassey Otu will continue to respect the independence of the judiciary as a co-equal arm of government.

“Accountability remains the oxygen of democracy. As lawyers, you must continue to serve as the conscience of the nation by speaking truth to power and upholding high ethical standards,” he added.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the NBA Calabar Branch, Enome Amatey, decried the growing disregard for the rule of law in Nigeria, citing disobedience of court orders and threats to institutional independence.

Amatey urged lawyers to be courageous, vigilant, and proactive in defending justice and safeguarding democracy.

On his part, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Paul Ebiala, described the Bar Week as a platform for reflection and renewed commitment to the ideals of the legal profession, urging participants to engage meaningfully in discussions.

Also speaking, the NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), represented by Ntufam Mba Ukweni (SAN), commended the branch for adopting a timely theme and urged lawyers to uphold constitutionalism, promote accountability, and maintain high ethical standards, especially as the 2027 general elections approach.

In a vote of thanks, Chief Joe Agi (SAN) commended the state government for its support for the Calabar Branch and praised the planning committee for organising a successful event.