By Ebinum Samuel
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, today, received the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Abeokuta Branch, Chief Kayode Aderemi, and members of the Branch’s Executive Committee at the Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta. The engagement reinforced the commitment of both institutions to professional collaboration, the protection of fundamental human rights and a more accountable criminal justice system.
The police spokesman for the state, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi disclosed that during the visit, the NBA Chairman commended the CP’s leadership and raised concerns relating to judgment enforcement, alleged extortion and remand proceedings, while pledging the Bar’s continued support for the Command. Responding, Ojajuni described the Police and the Bar as indispensable partners in the administration of justice, stressing that constructive friction between both institutions promotes mutual growth and accountability when guided by professionalism, civility and respect for the rule of law. He also emphasised the need for proper verification of court judgments before police action and strict compliance with applicable laws in remand proceedings.
Reaffirming his zero-tolerance stance on extortion and police misconduct, the CP urged legal practitioners and members of the public to report errant officers through established channels, including the X-Squad and Complaint Response Unit (CRU), for appropriate action. He equally urged lawyers to avoid frivolous petitions that improperly criminalise civil disputes, procedural shortcuts and advice that encourages clients to disregard lawful police invitations. The NBA Chairman undertook to address these concerns within the Branch.
To sustain the engagement and ensure timely resolution of outstanding concerns, CP Ojajuni announced the establishment of a joint follow-up committee comprising representatives of the Command and the NBA, Abeokuta Branch. The committee will provide a structured platform for dialogue, follow-up and the resolution of professional disagreements before they escalate into unnecessary confrontations.
The Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to professionalism, respect for fundamental rights and accountability, emphasising that effective cooperation between the Police and the legal profession is essential to public confidence and the administration of justice.
The Ogun State Police Command remains committed to working with the NBA and other justice-sector stakeholders to uphold the rule of law, protect fundamental rights and strengthen public trust in policing and the criminal justice system.
