_Courtesy Visit Highlights Need for Professionalism and Cooperation_
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Enugu State Chapter paid a courtesy visit to Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Chukwudi Chris Ariekpere’s office in Enugu, discussing ways to strengthen relationships between lawyers and the police ahead of the 2025 NBA Annual General Conference (AGC) in August.
Led by Chairman V.C. Odo, the NBA delegation, expressed concerns about the commercialization of the police in Enugu State, where some police stations have become quasi-judicial platforms for dispensing justice. The police were urged to desist from this practice and adhere to due process.
“Instead of exercising their constitutional powers of arrest and investigation, some police officers are usurping the functions of the courts by trying and determining matters at police stations,” Odo said. “This practice of ‘kangaroo justice’ undermines the rule of law and the administration of justice. It is unconstitutional, illegal, and provocative.”
Odo emphasized that suspects should be charged to court, allowing the judiciary to determine their guilt or innocence. He also condemned the practice of police extracting outrageous money from suspects/complainants or their lawyers in exchange for dropping petitions, charges, or settling matters at police stations.
AIG Ariekpere acknowledged the concerns raised and assured the NBA that the police would work towards upholding the rule of law and respecting the separation of powers. However, he also expressed concerns about some lawyers’ conduct in matters involving the police.
“Some lawyers often provide false narratives or colouration of matters involving the police, which can mislead the public and undermine the integrity of the legal profession,” Ariekpere said. “We also have instances where lawyers aid crimes and must face the consequences. Lawyers must uphold professional ethics and avoid actions that compromise the justice system.”
The meeting ended with an exchange of gifts, symbolizing the commitment to building a stronger relationship between the NBA and the police in Enugu.
The meeting marked a significant step towards improving relationships between the NBA and the police in Enugu, paving the way for more effective collaboration in the pursuit of justice. With the 2025 NBA AGC just around the corner, all hands must be on deck to ensure a successful event.
_Key Takeaways:_
<span;>- NBA and police to synergize for better cooperation.
<span;>- Police urged to maintain professionalism during AGC 2025.
<span;>- Police to adhere to due process and refrain from commercialization.
<span;>- Suspects to be charged to court, not tried at police stations.
<span;>- Lawyers urged to uphold professional ethics and avoid false narratives.
— DazzleNews.com.ng
