Police, NBA agree on stronger collaboration to advance justice
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, have agreed to deepen cooperation between the Nigeria Police Force and the legal profession to improve justice delivery and public safety.
During the NBA’s courtesy visit to the Force Headquarters in Abuja on 8 September 2026, the NBA President urged “closer synergy between the Police and the legal profession,” including specialised training for lawyers and better engagement between Police lawyers and the wider Bar.
She stressed that recurring clashes between lawyers and police officers must end, noting that “both professions have complementary responsibilities within the justice system.”
Badejo-Okusanya also highlighted a UNICEF-supported initiative on children’s access to justice, under which the NBA is proposing “the presence of a Police lawyer at every Police station” to provide legal support to children who come into contact with the juvenile justice system.
She said the proposal underscores the need to “ensure that vulnerable children are adequately supported and protected throughout the justice process.”
In his response, the IGP congratulated the NBA President on her emergence and described the meeting as an opportunity “to build a stronger and more structured relationship” between the two institutions.
He emphasised that “respect for every individual, office and profession must remain fundamental to professional interactions,” adding that while lawyers protect citizens’ rights and police protect lives and property, “the responsibilities of both institutions converge in the administration of justice.”
The IGP called for greater professionalism in how encounters involving police officers are recorded and shared, warning that officers “should not be subjected to ridicule or have the demanding circumstances of their duties trivialised for social media entertainment,” especially as they operate under challenging conditions.
To institutionalise cooperation, the IGP proposed improved professional engagement, measures to reduce delays in criminal trials, and the creation of a dedicated NPF/NBA mechanism “for seamless and open communication.”
He said such a channel would help address concerns, improve coordination and resolve issues “before they escalate into unnecessary confrontations.”
Reaffirming that police and lawyers are “partners in the pursuit of justice,” the IGP acknowledged that disagreements may occur but stressed they “must be managed professionally, respectfully and with civility.”
He expressed readiness to work with the new NBA leadership toward a “stronger and more productive partnership.”
The Nigeria Police Force said it remains committed to strengthening collaboration with the NBA and other justice-sector stakeholders to protect fundamental rights, improve access to justice and build a more effective and trusted criminal justice system.
