Nuhu Egya, Esq. Leads NBA Citizens Liberties’ Committee On Courtesy Visit To FCT Police Commissioner
The Citizens Liberties’ Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), led by its Chairman, Nuhu J. Egya, Esq., paid a courtesy visit to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command Headquarters in Garki, Abuja. The visit, which aimed to foster collaboration and address pressing issues, was marked by discussions on critical matters affecting both the legal profession and public safety within the FCT.
During the meeting, Nuhu J. Egya, Esq., commended the Commissioner of Police, Disu Olatunji, for his proactive measures in curbing criminal activities in the FCT. Egya highlighted the significant reduction in incidents involving kidnappers and “One Chance” operators as notable achievements under the Commissioner’s leadership.
However, the NBA Chairman also raised serious concerns about the treatment of lawyers by officers within the command. He pointed out recurring incidents of harassment and unlawful detention of legal practitioners during the discharge of their professional duties, as well as violations of their fundamental rights. Egya further criticized the handling of civil cases by the police and raised questions regarding the condition of detainees in police custody. He also sought clarification on the recent ban on the use of tinted glass by motorists in the FCT.
In his response, the Commissioner of Police, Disu Olatunji, expressed gratitude for the visit and assured the NBA delegation of the command’s commitment to addressing their concerns. He acknowledged the reports of uncivil behaviour by some officers towards lawyers and pledged to intensify awareness among his personnel on the importance of maintaining a respectful and professional relationship with legal practitioners. Olatunji reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the fundamental rights of all citizens and ensuring that suspects are charged within the legally stipulated timeframe.
Addressing the ban on tinted glass, the Commissioner explained that the measure was implemented as a security strategy to curb criminal activities in the FCT. He stated that kidnappers and “One Chance” operators frequently use vehicles with tinted windows to carry out their crimes. Since the ban’s enforcement, the command has recorded significant success, including the seizure of tinted vehicles used in such illegal activities. Olatunji emphasised that the command operates strictly within the bounds of the law and urged lawyers to cooperate with the police to reduce misunderstandings and foster mutual respect.
The Commissioner further expressed appreciation to the Citizens Liberties’ Committee for initiating the visit and emphasised the need for synergy between the NBA and the police. He proposed the creation of a feedback and crisis intervention mechanism to enhance collaboration and ensure a seamless working relationship.
The meeting was attended by several senior officers of the FCT Command, including Deputy Commissioner of Police Hauwa Ibrahim, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mohammed S. Baba, Assistant Commissioner of Police Zanna Madugu, Deputy Commissioner of Police Isyaku Sharu, Second-in-Command of the Legal Unit SP Adama Musa, and the Public Relations Officer ASP Kator Patrick, among others.
The visit marked a step toward building trust and collaboration between the Nigerian Bar Association and the FCT Police Command, with a shared goal of promoting justice, protecting citizens’ rights, and ensuring the rule of law.
