The Nigerian Bar Association, Anaocha Branch, has rejected the explanation offered by the Anambra State Police Command over an incident involving bailiffs of the Chief Magistrate Court, Awka, and police operatives attached to B-Division.
In a rejoinder dated October 9 and signed by Branch Chairman Dr. Uzoma Charles Dioha, the NBA said the police statement failed to directly address the allegation that court officials were physically assaulted, harassed or intimidated while carrying out a lawful judicial assignment.
The Branch stressed that the authority of a court bailiff flows from the court, not from the discretionary approval of a Divisional Police Officer.
It also called on the leadership of the Anambra Judiciary to take institutional interest in the matter, warning that interference with officers executing court orders threatens the administration of justice.
The Branch said its criticism was not an attack on the police institution and acknowledged the many officers who discharge their duties professionally.
However, it insisted that allegations of police brutality cannot be dismissed as mere misunderstandings without proper investigation.
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