By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Abakaliki Branch, Barrister Ede Samuel Ede (JP), has dismissed a circulating video of his encounter with the police in Enugu, describing it as “a deliberately edited and misleading clip that does not reflect the true events.”
Speaking to journalists at the weekend, Ede said the video was crafted to create a false narrative around his professional involvement in securing legal representation for Achor Chisom, who had been taken into police custody.
He explained that he was formally invited into the matter by Chisom’s sister and other concerned individuals who sought competent legal intervention.
According to the NBA Chairman, his visit to the State CID, Enugu, was guided strictly by his duty as counsel and his obligation to ensure that the detained young man received proper legal access, police administrative bail, or timely arraignment. He emphasized that every action he took complied with professional ethics.
Ede recounted that tense moments at the police unit were recorded without his consent, and crucial parts — especially those clarifying his identity and legal role — were intentionally removed before the video was circulated online. He stressed that the edited clip was crafted to embarrass him and distort the true interactions that took place.
Despite the traction the manipulated video gained on social media, the NBA Chairman noted that Chisom later apologized after realizing the misunderstanding caused by misinformation. He maintained that his primary concern throughout the incident was the protection of the young man’s constitutional rights.
Ede also disclosed that he has recently received threatening phone calls directed at him and members of his family, describing the development as “unfortunate but documented.” He assured the public that appropriate steps were already being taken in line with the law to address cyberbullying and harassment.
Reaffirming his commitment to his professional duties, the NBA Chairman declared:
“I remain committed to defending my clients. No amount of distortion or intimidation will stop me from performing my duty as a legal practitioner.”