The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Calabar Branch, has demanded a transparent and independent investigation into the alleged extrajudicial killing of 22-year-old street preacher, Moses Mba, by police officers attached to the former residence of Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu.
In a strongly worded letter dated September 8, 2025, and addressed to the Cross River State Commissioner of Police, the NBA expressed outrage over the incident, which occurred on August 1, 2025, in the State Housing area of Calabar.
Reports revealed that Mba, a young evangelist, had approached the governor’s former residence seeking to share the gospel but was allegedly shot by officers guarding the premises. He later succumbed to his injuries on August 9 while receiving treatment in hospital.
The killing sparked widespread outrage on social media and among Calabar residents, with many describing it as yet another case of unchecked police brutality.
NBA Calabar Chairman, Enomes Amatey, who signed the association’s letter, condemned the incident and attempts to brand the victim as mentally unstable. He described such moves as “an affront to his dignity and a deliberate effort to distort the truth and shield those responsible.”
“The NBA Calabar Branch is committed to its core mandate of upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and ensuring justice. The circumstances surrounding this case are troubling, and the role of the police, who are meant to safeguard lives, is deeply disturbing,” the letter read.
The association stressed that Mba’s death had eroded public trust in law enforcement and called for:
An immediate, comprehensive, and independent investigation into the incident.
Full accountability for all officers involved.
Protection for Mba’s mother, Mrs. Victoria Mba, who has continued to demand justice for her late son.
The NBA reiterated its commitment to pursuing justice and ensuring that such tragedies do not go unpunished, warning that silence or cover-ups would only deepen distrust in Nigeria’s justice system.
