The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Barrister Olumide Akpata on Wednesday met with the leadership of Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to advance criminal justice system in Nigeria
Penpushing reports that the association boss accompanied by other officials arrived at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, the Federal Capital. Territory (FCT) where discussion were held to fashion out synergy between the two establishments
The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, while speaking reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to the advancement of the criminal justice processes in the country, and also pledged that the Force would work in sync with the association in a Joint Committee – soon to be established.
Penpushing further reports that, Baba explained that the synergy is aimed at harmonizing functions and developing new framework and protocols for promoting due process and the Rule of Law.
The police boss added this also include dealing with issues of unnecessary antagonism between Police officers and defense attorneys, and promoting respect for the rights and privileges of the citizens during criminal investigations.
Penpushing also reports that, he noted that the collaboration would also assist in promoting a seamless working relationship between Police officers and defense attorneys, adding that the committee shall have its members drawn from both the Bar and the Nigeria Police Force.
The Inspector General of Police while acknowledging that the Force has one of the largest pool of licensed legal practitioners in the country, revealed that there are plans in place for effective utilization of the Police lawyers as well as advancing professionalism for lawyers within the Force.
Penpushing reports that, in his comments, the President of the Nigeria Bar Association(NBA) appreciated the police leadership for the various reforms being championed, especially those bordering on promoting the rights and privileges of the citizens.
The association boss advocated more goodwill between the Police and members of the Bar as cardinal players within the Nigerian Criminal Justice System, and also commended the Police Complaint Response Unit for always responding to complaints and issues of frictions between defense lawyers and the Police.
Penpushing further reports that, other members of the Nigerian Bar Association(NBA) delegation are: Barrister John Aikpokpo Martins – Vice President, Mrs Joyce Oduah – General Secretary, Barrister Tunde Edun, Barrister. Benard Oniga and Barrister Isah Abubakar Aliyu.
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