NBA protests police mistreatment of lawyer investigating death in custody

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, has lodged a formal complaint with the Commissioner of Police (CP) of Bayelsa State, Mr. Francis Idu, regarding the alleged harassment, molestation, and intimidation of lawyer Mr. Bodiswowei Oyomowie by officers from the Puff Adder Unit of the state police command.

Oyomowie, who represents the family of a suspect named Joseph Zolo, who died in police custody, was reportedly subjected to mistreatment after accompanying the Biogbolo Community youth council leader and two relatives of the deceased to inquire about the circumstances surrounding Zolo’s death.

In a petition addressed to CP Idu and copied to the Inspector General of Police, the NBA raised serious concerns about the ongoing misconduct at the Puff Adder Unit, describing a pattern of human rights violations and abuse by officers.

The petition, signed by NBA Yenagoa Branch Chairman Barrister Somina Johnbull and Human Rights Committee Chairman Lugard Tare-Otu, Esq., emphasized the urgent need for intervention to protect the rights and dignity of Bayelsa residents.

According to the NBA’s petition, on January 8, 2025, Mr. Joseph Zolo and two others were detained by the Safer Highways Unit of the Bayelsa State Police Command for alleged possession of marijuana.