Emefiele: NBA Strongly Condemns DSS and NCoS Over Altercation, Demands Accountability for Officers

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In a shocking turn of events at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed its strong disapproval of a heated altercation that occurred between the Department of State Services (DSS) operatives and officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) on a fateful Tuesday. The clash between the law enforcement agencies arose from a dispute over the custody of the suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele.

NBA President, Yakubu Maikyau, conveyed his profound dismay in a statement issued on Wednesday, urging both the DSS and NCoS to take immediate disciplinary action against the officers involved in what he termed a "disgraceful conduct." The incident unfolded in the sacred premises of the federal court, which Maikyau deemed a recipe for anarchy and chaos, highlighting the agencies' blatant disregard for the sanctity of the court.

The contentious situation was triggered after Justice Nicholas Oweibo granted bail to the embattled apex bank chief in the sum of N20 million. However, Emefiele was to be remanded at the correctional center until the bail conditions were met. The 61-year-old had pleaded "not guilty" to charges of illegal possession of firearm and ammunition, which were filed against him by the Federal Government. This arraignment came six weeks after his arrest and detention by the secret police, following his suspension by President Bola Tinubu on June 9, 2023.

Shortly after the court proceedings, DSS operatives, who had brought Emefiele to court in their Hilux Pick Up van, seemed intent on taking him back to their detention facility. However, the suspended CBN governor sought refuge inside the courtroom with his legal team. The situation escalated when prison officials attempted to take Emefiele into custody, pending the fulfillment of his bail conditions. The clash between the DSS and NCoS ensued as each agency claimed authority over the detainee.

The NBA expressed its strong condemnation of this disgraceful spectacle through a statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Akorede Habeeb Lawal. The association highlighted the alarming implications of such a public feud between vital government agencies, emphasizing that it undermines national security and jeopardizes the administration of justice. The NBA stressed the importance of cooperation and synergy between the DSS and NCoS in order to uphold justice and maintain a secure Nigeria.

While the incident has raised serious concerns about the conduct of personnel from both agencies, the NBA President pointed out that the leadership of the DSS and NCoS must take direct responsibility for the shameful episode. Maikyau called for immediate disciplinary action against the involved officers and recommended a comprehensive overhaul of the institutions. He further emphasized the need for a complete reorientation of personnel to ensure professionalism and alignment with their respective constitutional responsibilities.

The NBA, an unwavering advocate for the rule of law and due process, has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding these principles within a secure and protected Nigeria. The association's call for accountability and reform serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the integrity of the country's law enforcement agencies and the imperative to ensure they work collaboratively to serve the nation effectively.

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