*Describes Rift As Shameful And Unprofessional
*Calls For Investigation And Discipline Of Officers Involved In Contemptuous Altercation
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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the deplorable altercation that erupted at the premises of the Federal High Court, Lagos, involving operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). The incident, which occurred yesterday, has raised serious concerns about the lack of discipline and professionalism within key security institutions in Nigeria.
In a statement made available to TheNigeriaLawyer, the NBA President, Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau OON SAN, expressed deep concern over the incident, holding the leadership of both federal government agencies accountable for the shameful conduct of their personnel. He also acknowledged the possibility of individual overzealousness contributing to the unfortunate incident.
He said, “While it is difficult not to hold the leadership of the two federal government agencies directly responsible for the shameful and disgraceful conduct of its personnel, one cannot discount the possible overzealousness or excesses of the officers involved, as being responsible for what we witnessed today. This incident regrettably is further evidence of the lack of discipline and absence of professionalism that continues to plague key security institutions in Nigeria, which, without doubt, is largely responsible for the limited progress in achieving a coordinated response to security concerns across the country.”
The NBA emphasized the grave implications of such a clash between agencies responsible for national security and the administration of justice. Such events, witnessed by the public, undermine the nation’s security and create an environment prone to anarchy and chaos.
“A situation where officers of Federal Government agencies engage in a fight as witnessed by the public, for whatever reason, is antithetical to our security as a nation and creates a recipe for anarchy and chaos. Both the DSS and the NCoS are important institutions dealing with national security and administration of justice respectively, and the need for them to work in concert towards attaining justice in a secured Nigeria cannot be overemphasised.”
Furthermore, the NBA highlighted the disrespect for the sanctity of the court premises, stressing that the conduct of individuals or government agencies within the judicial setting reflects the country’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
In response to this unacceptable incident, the NBA has called for immediate disciplinary action against the involved officers. Additionally, they are urging a complete overhaul of both institutions and a comprehensive reorientation of personnel to foster professionalism and ensure better coordination of their respective constitutional responsibilities.
The Nigerian Bar Association reiterated its unwavering dedication to upholding the principles of the rule of law and due process in Nigeria while advocating for a safe and secure nation.
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