The Nigerian Bar Association has called for an urgent, independent investigation into the death of 22-year-old Moses Mba, allegedly at the hands of a security aide to Cross River Governor Bassey Otu, while raising alarms over threats and harassment targeting the victim's mother and family.

In a petition dated September 14, 2025, addressed to Cross River Commissioner of Police Rashid Afegbua, NBA Cross River Branch Chairman Enome Amatey detailed the family's struggles for justice since the August 1 incident at the governor's former residence in Calabar. Moses, described by his mother Victoria Mba as a deeply religious young man passionate about spiritual work since age 10, had approached the gate seeking to deliver what he called a "message from God" to the governor. According to the family, he was beaten and shot by one of the security personnel, leading to severe injuries.

Victoria Mba recounted to reporters that she and her husband were in Abia State when the Red Cross alerted them to rush their son to the Naval Reference Hospital in Calabar. He lingered for eight days before succumbing on August 9, with the family requesting an autopsy to clarify if the gunshot or assault caused his death. A ₦54,000 mortuary bill was partially covered by Emmanuel Dickson, an aide to the governor's chief of staff, whom the family accuses of subsequent threats.

The NBA petition highlights these intimidation efforts, including attempts to access Moses's body at the morgue without family consent and baseless claims labeling him mentally unstable – assertions the association deems an "affront to his dignity" lacking medical backing. Amatey emphasized that such tactics undermine the probe and erode trust in the police, who are meant to protect citizens but are now implicated. The lawyers urged immediate safeguards for Victoria Mba and her relatives, a full forensic examination, and public disclosure of findings to uphold constitutional rights to life and fair treatment.

Cross River authorities have responded with condemnation and action. State Commissioner for Information Erasmus Ekpang stated that Governor Otu ordered the implicated aide's arrest and a thorough investigation, insisting the administration tolerates no impunity. Ekpang clarified that the site was the governor's former home, not his official residence, and noted Moses's mental state as a factor, though without specifics. The government expressed sorrow over the loss and extended condolences, but the family rejected a reported ₦5 million compensation offer, prioritizing accountability over financial settlement.

The case has drawn broader scrutiny, with human rights advocates like the Centre for Human Rights and Advocacy in Africa Network echoing the NBA's demands for transparency. Moses's death fits a troubling pattern of alleged excesses by political security details in Nigeria, where citizens have faced violence from convoys or aides. As the petition circulates, police have yet to announce arrests or progress, leaving the Mba family in limbo and the public awaiting clarity on whether this will mark a step toward reform or another unresolved tragedy.