The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned the attempt by the National Assembly to criminalize ransom payment by victims of kidnapping without tackling the root cause of kidnapping.
The NBA aired its opinion through its Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL).
NBA-SPIDEL Chairman, Monday Ubani, said the law does not reflect the reality in society.
Dr. Ubani dropped the hint while addressing reporters at the Bar Centre, Ikeja on the activities for the NBA-SPIDEL 2022 Annual scheduled for May 22 to May 26, 2022, in Sokoto.
Ubani said: “The truth of the matter is that victims of kidnapping pay ransoms out of desperation and abject helplessness, knowing fully well that the State has failed and is unable to protect lives and property or secure the release of their loved ones from kidnappers’ den.”
“This piece of legislation under contemplation lacks logic and wisdom and the House of Representatives is hereby advised to jettison the Bill without any further consideration.
“It does not make any sense at all! Instead, the legislature is strongly advised to focus on laws that will strengthen national security and protection of lives and property, assuming there is a lacuna.”
