The Akure Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called on the Ondo State Police Command to address complaints of alleged harassment and intimidation of lawyers while they perform their professional duties at police stations.
The association also proposed closer cooperation between lawyers and the police to improve the administration of criminal justice and minimise recurring disagreements between both professions.
The Chairman of the NBA Akure Branch, Oju Kekemeke, made the appeal on Thursday when he led members of the newly elected executive committee on a courtesy visit to the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, at the command headquarters in Akure.
NBA Seeks Greater Police-Lawyer Cooperation
Kekemeke said lawyers and police officers have complementary responsibilities in maintaining law and order and ensuring that citizens have access to justice.
He stressed that mutual respect between the two professions was necessary for effective cooperation throughout the criminal justice process, from arrest and investigation to prosecution and trial.
The NBA chairman proposed regular meetings between representatives of the police and the legal profession to resolve issues relating to arrests, suspects’ rights, access to legal representation during statement-taking, investigations, detention, bail and human-rights compliance.
He also suggested monthly inspections of police detention facilities and joint training sessions for lawyers and police officers.
Concern Over Lawyers’ Treatment at Police Stations
Kekemeke alleged that some lawyers had experienced harassment, intimidation and, in some cases, molestation while visiting police stations to represent clients.
He appealed to the Commissioner of Police to ensure that officers understand the professional responsibilities of lawyers.
At the same time, he said the NBA would encourage its members to respect police officers while carrying out their duties.
The NBA chairman further suggested that whenever the police have a complaint against a lawyer, the association should be contacted directly so that the matter can be addressed through institutional dialogue rather than allowing disputes to escalate.
NBA Objects to Phone Restrictions
Another issue raised by the association was the reported requirement for lawyers to surrender their mobile phones before entering some police facilities.
Kekemeke argued that mobile phones have become important professional tools for lawyers because they provide access to legal materials, communication platforms and information relating to clients.
He also expressed concern that lawyers could be carrying privileged or confidential client information on their devices.
The NBA, however, acknowledged that security measures could be necessary in sensitive areas. It maintained that restrictions on photography or recording could be applied where justified, but argued that simply possessing a mobile phone should not prevent a lawyer from gaining access to a client.
Police Commissioner Responds
Responding to the NBA delegation, Commissioner Ohagwu acknowledged the importance of cooperation among the police, lawyers and other stakeholders in ensuring an effective criminal justice system.
He welcomed the association’s proposals and assured the delegation that the command was willing to maintain professional communication with the NBA.
The commissioner also expressed support for initiatives aimed at improving cooperation, accountability and the administration of justice in Ondo State.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both institutions to discuss measures aimed at improving their working relationship and addressing concerns surrounding lawyers’ access to police facilities and clients.
