The tragic death of 22-year-old Moses Mba, a young preacher, allegedly at the hands of policemen in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, has ignited a firestorm of controversy and demands for justice. The incident, which occurred on August 1, 2025, near the former residence of Governor Bassey Otu, has cast a harsh spotlight on allegations of police brutality and extrajudicial killings, further eroding public trust in law enforcement. Mba’s demise, following a week of struggling for life in a hospital, has galvanized the community and sparked outrage on social media, prompting calls for a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Calabar Branch, has taken a leading role in demanding accountability and ensuring that justice is served in this deeply troubling case.
The core of the controversy revolves around the conflicting narratives surrounding Mba’s encounter with the police officers stationed at Governor Otu’s former residence. According to reports, Mba had approached the premises with the intention of preaching to the governor. However, the interaction escalated tragically, resulting in Mba being shot by the policemen. The subsequent attempts by some to portray Mba as mentally unstable have only fueled further outrage and suspicion, with critics viewing such claims as a blatant attempt to deflect blame and exonerate the officers involved. The NBA, in its strongly worded letter to the Commissioner of Police, has vehemently condemned these attempts to smear Mba’s character, emphasizing that such tactics not only disrespect the deceased but also undermine the pursuit of truth and justice.
The NBA’s intervention in this case underscores the organization’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and ensuring accountability within the Nigerian justice system. The association’s letter, signed by its Chairman, Enomes Amatey, articulates a series of crucial demands aimed at achieving a comprehensive and impartial investigation into Mba’s death. These demands include an immediate and independent inquiry into the incident, the provision of protection for Mba’s mother, Victoria Mba, who is understandably fearful for her safety, and a commitment to transparency throughout the investigative process. The NBA’s insistence on an independent investigation reflects the widespread public distrust in the police’s ability to impartially investigate its own members, particularly in cases involving allegations of excessive force and misconduct.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Mba’s death resonate deeply with broader concerns about police brutality and the use of excessive force in Nigeria. This incident is not an isolated one; it forms part of a disturbing pattern of alleged extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses by law enforcement officials, often targeting vulnerable members of society. The public outcry following Mba’s death underscores the urgent need for comprehensive police reforms, including enhanced training, improved accountability mechanisms, and greater transparency in police operations. These reforms are essential to restoring public trust in law enforcement and ensuring that such tragic incidents are not repeated.
The NBA’s resolute stance in demanding justice for Moses Mba represents a crucial step towards holding those responsible accountable and preventing future tragedies. The association’s commitment to transparency and its unwavering pursuit of justice serve as a powerful reminder of the vital role of civil society organizations in safeguarding human rights and promoting the rule of law. The outcome of this investigation will have significant implications for police accountability in Nigeria and will send a strong message about the importance of protecting the lives and dignity of all citizens, regardless of their background or social standing.
The demands put forward by the NBA Calabar Branch represent a comprehensive roadmap for achieving justice in the case of Moses Mba. The call for an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation is not simply a procedural matter; it is a fundamental requirement for ensuring that the truth is revealed and those responsible are held accountable. The protection of Mba’s mother is equally crucial, as it acknowledges the real and present danger she may face as a result of speaking out against alleged police misconduct. The NBA’s unwavering commitment to these demands demonstrates the organization’s dedication to upholding the principles of justice and protecting the rights of all Nigerians. The outcome of this case will serve as a critical test of the government’s willingness to address the pervasive issue of police brutality and ensure that all citizens are treated with dignity and respect under the law.
