On Sunday, the 30th day of August 2026, a delegation of the Nigerian Bar Association, led by the Second Vice President, Nuhu Egya, Esq. and Mrs. Ini Irene Pepple paid a condolence visit to the family of late Mr. Anthony Obodo, the 22-year-old young man who reportedly lost his life as a result of gun shut injuries involving police officers in Port Harcourt on Saturday, 29th August 2026.
Late Anthony Obodo was a graduate of Computer Science from the University of Port Harcourt and was awaiting posting for the mandatory National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, programme at the time of his death.
The visit was undertaken on the directive of the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, FCIArb. as part of the Association’s immediate response to the tragic incident.
The NBA delegation comprised the 2nd Vice President, Nuhu Ega, Esq., the 3rd Vice President, Iniobong Irene Pepple, Esq., AICMC, MCArb., the Chairman of the NBA Port Harcourt Branch, Owele Chinedu Maduba, Esq., and members of the Executive Committee and leadership of the Branch.
The incident occurred in Port Harcourt, within the region designated as the East under the NBA’s Vice-Pesidential structure, which falls within the oversight of the 3rd Vice President in relation to the coordination and support of Branches within the region. The visit therefore provided an opportunity for the National and Branch leadership of the Association to respond promptly to the incident and engage directly with the affected family.
The delegation met with the parents of the deceased, Hon. PrinceWill & Mrs. Beatrice Obodo, and other members of the bereaved family.
Speaking on behalf of the NBA delegation, the Second Vice President, Nuhu Egya, Esq., conveyed the condolences of the NBA President and the entire members of the Nigerian Bar Association to the family over the tragic and untimely loss of their son.
He assured the family that the NBA stands with them at this extremely difficult time and that the Association would remain interested in the investigation and subsequent processes arising from the incident.
The Second Vice President who led the delegation made it clear that the circumstances surrounding the death of Anthony Obodo must be thoroughly investigated and that the matter must not be swept under the carpet. The NBA remains firmly opposed to extrajudicial killings, police brutality and the unlawful use of force by law enforcement and other security agencies.
The Association reiterated that those entrusted with the responsibility of protecting the lives and property of citizens must exercise that responsibility within the confines of the law. Where there is an unlawful deprivation of life, there must be a credible investigation, accountability and justice in accordance with the law.
The delegation was informed that the Police intends to parade the suspect in connection with the incident on Monday, the 31st day of August 2026. The NBA has undertaken to be present in significant numbers to observe developments and demonstrate its continued commitment to the pursuit of justice in the matter.
The Association will continue to follow the investigation and all subsequent proceedings closely to ensure that due process is followed and that justice is not only done but is seen to be done.
The visit reaffirmed the Nigerian Bar Association’s commitment to protecting human rights, promoting the rule of law and ensuring that its national leadership and Branches remain responsive to serious violations affecting members of the communities they serve.
The NBA stands with the family of late Anthony Obodo and will continue to engage with the relevant authorities as the matter progresses.
Dr. Prince I. Azubuike
National Publicity Secretary
Nigerian Bar Association
