By IBRAHIM BELLO

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kebbi Branch, has directed its members to refrain from travelling to nine local government areas identified as kidnapping hotspots in the state.

The Chairman of the branch, Alhaji Aminu Hassan, gave the directive in a statement issued in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday.

Hassan said the affected areas include Bagudo, Suru, Kamba in Dandi, Bunza, Kangiwa in Arewa, Dirin Daji in Sakaba, Ribah, Kanya and Augie Local Government Areas.

He explained that the decision followed an emergency meeting of the association held on Saturday to deliberate on the abduction of one of its members, Mr. Isyaku Muhammad- Danjuma, on Wednesday.

The association said he was abducted along the Ibeto – Birnin Kebbi route, in Magama Local Government Area of Niger.

According to Hassan, the association condemned the abduction and expressed deep concern over the rising wave of insecurity across the country.

He said the branch resolved that all its members should boycott Court proceedings from Oct. 7 to Oct. 10 in protest against the kidnapping of their colleague and to draw attention to the worsening security situation.

“Upon the expiration of the boycott period, members are also urged to suspend handling of terrorism-related cases, including those involving kidnapping, abduction, armed robbery or unlawful possession of firearms, until further notice,” Hassan said.

The chairman said the association would engage the relevant authorities to ensure the safe release of the abducted lawyer.

He called on the government and the security agencies to take urgent steps to restore peace and public confidence.

Hassan added that the branch would work with the judiciary to provide alternative venues for court cases to minimize travel to unsafe locations.

He commended the members of the Bar, the judiciary, the media and other Nigerians for their solidarity and urged them to remain united in the pursuit of justice and peace. (NAN)