Members of the Nigerian Bar Association are hereby informed of the progress made by the Fact-Finding Committee constituted to investigate the circumstances surrounding the continued detention of Bright Ngene, Esq., a member of the Enugu State Branch.
Background
At the last meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) held in Maiduguri, Borno State, the Chairman of the Enugu State Branch brought to the attention of Council the issue of the alleged continuous unlawful detention of the learned colleague.
In a swift and proactive response, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mazi Afam Osigwe, immediately constituted a seven-member Fact-Finding Committee at the NEC meeting of February 5, 2026, to investigate the matter and engage relevant stakeholders.
Composition of the Committee
The Committee is constituted as follows:
- Sammie Somiari, SAN — Chairman
- Musa Attah, SAN
- Abdul Mohammed, SAN
- Emeka Obegolu, SAN
- Chidi Aroh
- Venatius Odo
- Osato Uwagboe — Secretary
Engagement in Enugu State
On February 18, 2026, the Committee visited Enugu State and held meetings with the Chief Judge and other judicial officers who had previously recused themselves from the matter. The Committee subsequently met with the Executive Governor, the Attorney General, and the Chief of Staff.
The Judiciary informed the Committee that the multiple recusals and reassignments in the matter were largely due to perceived threats and security concerns. While acknowledging these concerns, the Committee noted that the repeated recusals and reassignments had not only caused undue delay but had also created negative public perception regarding the administration of justice in the case.
The Chief Judge categorically denied receiving any directive from the Executive Governor or any member of the Executive Council concerning the matter. Following communication from the Supreme Court of Nigeria through the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the case was reassigned to the original trial judge and fixed for hearing on February 20, 2026.
The Committee reiterated that the repeated reassignments and delays significantly contributed to the prolonged detention and slow progress of the appeal process.
Visit to the Correctional Facility
The Committee also visited Bright Ngene, Esq., at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility. He alleged procedural irregularities in his trial, confirmed that he had filed an appeal and an application for bail pending appeal, and expressed concern over delays in the hearing of his matter.
Engagement with the Executive
In its meeting with the Governor, the Executive assured the Committee of its non-interference in the administration of justice and confirmed that the appeal had been assigned a hearing date. The Committee urged all relevant authorities to ensure that no further delays occur and resolved to maintain a watching brief on the matter in the interest of justice and professional protection.
On the date fixed for hearing, all parties adopted their arguments, while a member of the Committee held a watching brief on behalf of the NBA.
The matter has now been adjourned to March 27, 2026, for judgment.
The Nigerian Bar Association remains committed to safeguarding the rights of its members and upholding the integrity of the justice system.
Signed,
Osato Uwagboe
Secretary, Fact-Finding Committee
