The Law Officers Association of Nigeria(LOAN) has issued a statement condemning the invitation and arrest of the Director of Public Prosecution(DPP) and state counsel of the Anambra State Ministry of Justice.
Full statement below:
INVITATION, ARREST AND DETENTION OF LAW OFFICERS: STRONG CONDEMNATION OF UNCONSTITUTIONAL POLICE ACTION
The Law Officers Association of Nigeria, Anambra State Chapter, vehemently condemns the recent invitation and arrest of the Director of Public Prosecution Mrs. Nneka Umeozulu and other law officers; Fabian Okeke Assistant Chief State Counsel and Chinelo Akorah Senior State Counsel by the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Unit of the Nigerian Police Force, Abuja. This action constitutes a blatant attempt to undermine the constitutional duties and prerogatives of the Attorney General of Anambra State, as enshrined in Section 211 of the 1999 Constitution.
The Attorney General’s decision to review and withdraw an improperly filed charge at the High Court of Anambra State is a legitimate exercise of his constitutional powers. The police’s actions in arresting and detaining the law officers from 10am to 9pm on Monday, August 4, 2025, in an attempt to question and investigate their legal opinion, are unacceptable and unconstitutional of the police and if allowed to slide shall set a very dangerous precedent.
As law officers, we are committed to discharging our duties as prescribed by law, without fear or intimidation. We will continue to uphold the course of justice and protect the integrity of the legal system. The actions of the Nigerian Police Force, particularly the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Unit, are a clear attempt to intimidate and undermine the independence of the legal profession.
We lend our voice in commendation of Professor Chidi Odinkalu, the Nigerian Bar Association and members of the Nigerian Bar as well as and other pressure groups as we unequivocally condemn the illegal and unconstitutional actions of the Nigerian Police Force and demand immediate sanctions for the officers involved. We will not be swayed from our duty to uphold the law and protect the rights of citizens. We call on all stakeholders to join us in condemning this brazen attempt to undermine the rule of law and the independence of the legal profession.
