*As Eastern Bar Forum Condemns Attack on Lawyer, Calls for Justice
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The Nigerian Bar Association Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC) has strongly criticized the Area Commander of Owerri Fire Service Police Station, David Ogbenye, for the unlawful detention and mistreatment of lawyer Chinaka Chigozie Esq. The incident occurred while Chinaka was performing his legal duties, attempting to secure the release of his client from the police station.
Chukwuka Ikwuazom, SAN, Chairman of NBA-SARC, and Isah Abubakar Aliyu, Secretary, issued a statement condemning the incident. They reported that the mistreatment of Chinaka Chigozie was corroborated by several witnesses, including a senior member of the Bar, a magistrate, and an Assistant Chief Registrar in the Imo State Judiciary. The incident escalated from an innocuous act of Chinaka taking a photograph of his client’s car’s license plate.
The statement outlined the serious nature of the incident, which included illegal detention and torture despite the presence of a magistrate who intervened to secure Chinaka’s release. The NBA-SARC demanded the immediate suspension of Area Commander David Ogbenye to facilitate an impartial investigation into the allegations against him and other implicated officers.
The NBA-SARC, in collaboration with the Owerri Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, is preparing petitions to be presented to the Commissioner of Police, Imo State, the Inspector General of Police, the Police Service Commission, and the Attorney General of the Federation. These petitions will seek redress, accountability, and compensatory justice for Chinaka Chigozie Esq. The NBA-SARC stands in solidarity with Chinaka and is committed to ensuring that those responsible for this incident face legal consequences.
Meanwhile, the Eastern Bar Forum (EBF) has strongly condemned the recent attack and unlawful detention of lawyer Chinaka Chigozie Esq. by police officers at Area Command, Owerri, on the orders of Area Commander David Ogenye. Chinaka was targeted while carrying out his professional duties, and the incident represents a violation of his fundamental rights and an affront to the legal profession.
The EBF expressed deep concern about the increasing cases of harassment and assault against lawyers performing their professional duties. Such attacks undermine the integrity of the legal system and trust in law enforcement agencies.
Reports indicated that Chinaka was assaulted by police officers when he attempted to secure the release of his client, Wisdom Mmaduka, who had been detained since June 2023. The EBF called for a thorough investigation into the incident and accountability for those responsible. It urged the Nigerian Police Force to prioritize training programs for officers to understand and respect the rights and privileges of legal practitioners.
The EBF encouraged lawyers to remain committed to justice and not be deterred by intimidation. The forum called on relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Bar Association, human rights organizations, and civil society groups, to join in condemning such attacks and advocating for the protection of lawyers’ rights across the country.
The EBF reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting the rights of legal practitioners, and ensuring access to justice for all. It pledged support to Chinaka Chigozie and his legal team throughout this ordeal.
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