CYRIACUS IZUEKWE
The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Lagos Branch, Uchenna Ogunedo Akingbade, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon Close, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Monday, 11th May, 2026.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that the delegation included the Vice Chairman of the NBA Lagos Branch and the Chairman of the Human Rights Committee, James Sonde, alongside members of the committee and its various sub-committees.
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The visit was aimed at fostering closer cooperation between the legal profession and the Police.
According to a statement signed by ASP Mayegun Aminat, Police Public Relations Officer of the FCID Annex, the engagement focused on promoting the rule of law, protecting human rights, and enhancing effective justice delivery in Lagos State. Both sides discussed ways to build structured channels of communication for constructive dialogue.
Key areas of collaboration identified during the meeting included capacity-building initiatives for Police officers, improved dialogue on issues affecting the legal profession and the public, and measures to strengthen the protection of suspects’ rights.
The parties also discussed strengthening justice delivery through more effective investigative, judicial, and forensic processes. They noted that improved coordination could reduce delays and enhance public confidence in the justice system.
Another focus was on developing frameworks for coordinated detention and custody visits in line with established Police procedures. The NBA delegation said such visits would help ensure compliance with legal standards and safeguard detainees’ rights.
The meeting further explored referral mechanisms for addressing human rights concerns and the possibility of joint public sensitisation programmes. The goal, they said, is to raise awareness of citizens’ rights and responsibilities.
Speaking during the engagement, AIG Simeon U. Akpanudom welcomed the delegation and commended the NBA for its role in advancing justice and safeguarding citizens’ rights. He said sustained engagement between the Police and justice sector stakeholders is critical to strengthening accountability and public trust.
The AIG reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force, under Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to people-centred policing. He emphasized the need for continuous professional training and capacity development for both Police officers and legal practitioners.
He added that improved training would enhance compliance with human rights standards and contribute to more efficient justice delivery. Both the Police and the NBA delegation agreed that professional development remains a shared priority.
Both parties expressed commitment to sustained collaboration and agreed to maintain regular engagements. They said the partnership would support institutional cooperation in the collective pursuit of peace, security, and justice.
The visit concluded with a group photograph.
