By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Following the kidnap of a legal practitioner, Chukwubuikem Azoro, over the weekend, lawyers in Anambra State under the aegis of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), have embarked on a one-day boycott of courts to press home their demand for his release.

Azoro who is the Secretary of NBA Idemili Branch was whisked away by gunmen at Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area of the state around 8:30 pm last Saturday.

A statement by the branch Publicity Secretary, Chukwubuikem Obianyo said that his captors have made demand for ransom to secure his release.

The statement read in part, “In response to this distressing situation, the members of the Idemili Branch have unanimously resolved to take a stand against such criminal acts.

“Therefore, all members of the NBA Idemili Branch shall be boycotting appearances in all courts within and outside our jurisdiction.

“Additionally, members of Idemili Branch pledge to abstain from representing individuals charged with kidnapping or armed robbery until further notice.

“This decision is not taken lightly, but it reflects our unwavering commitment to justice and the safety of our members and the community at large.

“We call upon the relevant authorities to expedite efforts to secure the safe release of Mr. Azoro and to take decisive action against the perpetrators of this heinous crime.

“We urge the public to join us in condemning such acts of violence and to stand in solidarity with the victim and his family during this difficult time.”

On his part, a senior lawyer, who is also the Secretary of NBA Idemili Branch Human Rights Committee, Mr. Ernest Uwanaka called for fast and unconditional release” of Azoro.

While condemning Azoro’s kidnap, he called on the Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo as well as the State Police Commissioner to ensure the lawyer’s safe return.

Uwamaka added: “While praying to God for fast and unconditional release of the Branch Secretary, Uwanaka urges the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo and the new Commissioner of Police in the State, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam to assist the NBA, Idemili Branch to secure the release of its member, and beef up security in the state to protect the general public especially legal practitioners and judicial officers whose lives have become endangered due to the nature of their jobs.”

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