A senior lawyer and member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Keffi Branch, Garba Armi Esq, was kidnapped from his house in Angwa Kare Keffi, Nasarawa State, near the Federal Capital Territory Abuja, on Monday night.
The armed kidnappers stormed Armi’s house at about 11:30 pm, shooting off rounds of gunfire before abducting him. The NBA Keffi branch chairman, Barrister Nuhu Igya, confirmed the kidnapping and revealed that the kidnappers have contacted the family, demanding a ransom of N50 million for Armi’s release.
Rising Tide of Lawyer Kidnappings
Sadly, Armi’s kidnapping is not an isolated incident. Lawyers in Nigeria have become increasingly targeted by kidnappers in recent years, with several high-profile cases making headlines. In 2021, a prominent lawyer, Edward Okeke, was kidnapped and murdered in Anambra State. Just last month, another lawyer, Omokhafe Edewor, was abducted in Edo State and later released after his family paid a ransom.
NBA Calls for Action
The NBA has condemned Armi’s kidnapping and urged security agencies to take immediate action to secure his safe release. The association has also called on the Nigerian government to address the wider issue of lawyer kidnappings, which it says is having a chilling effect on the legal profession.
Challenges for Nigerian Security Forces
The spate of lawyer kidnappings highlights the growing challenge of insecurity in Nigeria. Despite government efforts, armed gangs and criminal networks continue to operate with impunity in many parts of the country. The security forces face an uphill battle in tackling these groups and ensuring the safety of all citizens, including lawyers who play a vital role in upholding the rule of law.
Demand for Justice and Protection
The kidnapping of Garba Armi has sparked outrage and concern among Nigerians. Many are calling for justice and demanding that the government do more to protect lawyers and other vulnerable groups from kidnappers. The coming days and weeks will be crucial as security agencies work to locate Armi and bring his abductors to justice.
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Olowookere Emmanuel