The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Enugu Branch, has raised alarm over what it describes as the commercialisation of police services in the state, alleging that exorbitant charges are being demanded for routine duties. The concerns were voiced during the opening of the NBA Enugu Branch 2024 Law Week on Wednesday.
In a thought-provoking lecture titled “Commercialisation of Policing in Enugu State: Implications on Human Rights,” human rights lawyer Mr. Daniel Ogbe lamented the impact of this trend on the fundamental rights of residents. He argued that the practice not only infringes on human rights but also undermines societal stability and police welfare.
Ogbe urged the legal community to file Public Interest Suits aimed at compelling the judiciary to interpret existing laws more stringently, ensuring that police officers are not incentivized to act against justice. According to him, this commercialization represents a significant regression in the criminal justice system, with adverse implications for citizens in Enugu State.
Adding to the discourse, Chief Uche Maduemesi criticized the high cost of engaging police services, noting that many citizens are unable to access basic protection and emergency responses due to financial barriers. He called for urgent reforms to make police services more accessible to all Nigerians.
NBA Enugu Branch Chairman, Chief Venatus Odo, pledged the association’s commitment to addressing the issue. He announced plans to seek an official meeting with the state’s police hierarchy and include their concerns in a communiqué to be submitted after the law week. Odo emphasized that the alleged extortion not only affects residents but also disrupts judicial processes and lawyers’ activities in the state.
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The event also featured a keynote address by Justice Peter Obiora of the Court of Appeal, Abuja, represented by Justice Harold Eya of the Enugu State High Court. Obiora’s address, themed “Bar Practice: The Lawyer at the Centre of Judicial Corruption – Nagging Need for Practice Reforms,” highlighted the pivotal role of lawyers in upholding justice. He condemned the influence of bribery and double standards in the judicial system, urging legal practitioners to adhere strictly to the rule of law.
Justice Elvis Ngene, Chief Judge of Ebonyi State, commended the NBA Enugu Branch for its efforts in organizing the impactful law week, describing it as a beacon of hope for judicial reform. Similarly, Justice Raymond Ozoemena, Chief Judge of Enugu State, praised the branch for its commitment to mentoring young lawyers and upholding the legal profession’s standards.
The NBA Enugu Branch 2024 Law Week not only shed light on the pressing issues of police extortion but also reaffirmed the importance of transparency, accountability, and reform within Nigeria’s legal and judicial systems. The association’s proactive stance has set the tone for collective efforts to address these challenges.
