EFCC’s Brutality Becoming Of Grave Concern – NBA
BY VICTOR BUORO, ABUJA – The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Abuja Branch on Thursday raised alarm over what it described as the brutality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which it stressed is gradually becoming a thing of grave concern in the country.
The Unity Bar, which stated this while reacting to the to the brutal treatment and ill reception allegedly meted out on the Chairman of NBA, Makurdi Branch Mr. Justin Gbagir Esq; and breach of the Branch Treasurer’s fundamental rights, said that having painstakingly read through the entire EFCC’s Act, particularly Sections 6 and 7 of the Act which plainly dictates the functions of the Commission; the NBA is unable to locate the paragraph under which the Commission is empowered to maltreat citizens of the country they swore to protect.
It therefore condemned the act of brutality in very strong terms, stressing that the act of brutality by law enforcement agents against lawyers is one brutality too many.
These were contained in a statement by the Secretary of the Unity Bar, Prince Adebiyi Adetosoye and made available to Forefront News, in which body of lawyers in Nigeria demanded that the officers responsible for the brutality be brought to book.
The NBA also called for the reorientation of all law enforcement agencies in Nigeria on rules of engagement with citizens.
The statement further states; “While expressing our regret for the present situation in our Country, particularly the imperious and overbearing powers habitually exhibited by the law enforcement agents, it is equally expedient to remind all law enforcement agencies, particularly the EFCC, that their duty is solely hinged on the enforcement of the law; without which any organization, however small in number, would crumble.
“As rightly stated by Stephen Fry; “Mankind can live free in a society hemmed in by laws, but we have yet to find a historical example of mankind living free in lawless anarchy.”
“The canker worm that steadily eats deep into the fabric of our dear nation has constantly been that of Police brutality. However, presently, the EFCC brutality is gradually becoming a thing of grave concern.
“We call for a change of the minds, focus and direction of these agencies to one that would improve and enhance public cordial relations. It is only then we can anticipate efficiency, effectiveness and an attitudinal change in cordial public relations.
“On behalf of the entire members of the Nigerian Bar Association, Abuja Branch (Unity Bar) we hereby assure every member and Executives of the NBA Makurdi Branch of our unwavering support in this difficult time. “Until normalcy is restored in the Country and Nigerian Lawyers and indeed citizens are treated with utmost respect, we will continue to stand in unity against brutality and lawlessness of any kind,” the NBA Abuja branch stated.
