The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has disclosed its next line of action after Gov Dave Umahi apologised for the uncomplimentary remarks he made against the judge that sacked him as Governor.
The Association said it will appeal to Justice Inyang Ekwo and the Chief Justice of Nigeria to accept the apology.
Dave Umahi had on Tuesday, described his removal from office by Justice Ekwo as “a hatchet man’s Job.”
On it’s part, the NBA described the Governor’s comment as a national embarrassment and unacceptable..
The backlash prompted Umahi to apologise while addressing over two thousand members of the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC, in Ebonyi State.
The solidarity rally took place at the Udensi roundabout on Wednesday.
Reacting to the apology, NBA President, Olumide Akpata via his Facebook page, confirmed the apology, adding that NBA will forward same apology to Ekwo and the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Ibrahim Tanko.
“Following that Statement, H.E. Engr. Umahi made extensive efforts to reach me and in the course of our conversation, I reiterated that the NBA has no interest in the case other than to ensure that the sanctity of the judicial system is protected & the rule of law respected.
“In line with our demands, H.E. Engr. Umahi addressed a cross section of Ebonyi State citizens, where he unreservedly apologised for his comments, clarified his intentions and very importantly too, called for calm from his supporters while urging them to refrain from denigrating the Judiciary.
“I will immediately transmit this apology to His Lordship, Hon. Justice Inyang Ekwo and My Lord the Hon. Chief Justice of Nigeria, who is the head of the Judiciary in Nigeria, and urge them to also accept same,” Akpata stated.
NBA president also explained the procedure for challenging unfavourable decisions of courts is to appeal it.
“Now that the right thing has been done and the appeal process has been activated, we shall resume our backseat and allow the process take its course. As far as the NBA is concerned, this brings an end to this unfortunate episode but we hope that important lessons have been learnt,” he added.
Read also:
2023 Presidential Election: Dave Umahi Dumps PDP for APC
Presidential Aide Mocks Femi Fani-Kayode on Defection to APC
NBA Discloses Next Line of Action After Gov Dave Umahi’s Apology to Justice Ekwo