The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Kebbi Branch, has cautioned its members against travelling to nine local government areas in the state due to escalating kidnapping incidents.

The warning comes shortly after the abduction of a lawyer, Isyaku Muhammad-Danjuma, along the Ibeto–Birnin Kebbi road in Magama Local Government Area of Niger State.

The affected local government areas are Bagudo, Suru, Kamba (Dandi), Bunza, Kangiwa (Arewa), Dirin Daji (Sakaba), Ribah, Kanya, and Augie.

NBA Kebbi chairman, Alhaji Aminu Hassan, disclosed the decision in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday, explaining that it followed an emergency meeting held on Saturday. He said the association was deeply concerned about the rising wave of insecurity and kidnappings in the state.

Hassan revealed that as part of the resolutions, members were directed to boycott court sittings from October 7 to 10 to protest the abduction and the deteriorating security situation.

“After the boycott, members are advised to suspend handling cases related to terrorism, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms, until further notice,” Hassan said.

He added that the NBA would engage relevant authorities to ensure the safe release of the abducted lawyer while urging the state government to take immediate measures to safeguard lives and property.

The development has sparked widespread concern among legal practitioners in Kebbi, many of whom fear for their safety amid the recent surge in criminal activities.