The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Damaturu Branch, has strongly condemned the alleged assault and degrading treatment of one of its members, Mr. Muhammad Muhammad Saminu, Esq., by officers of the Damagum Police Division in Yobe State.Legal Consultation Service
In a press release dated March 2, 2026, and signed by its Chairman, Ahmad Khalil, Esq., the Branch disclosed that it has formally petitioned the Commissioner of Police, Yobe State Command, over the incident which reportedly occurred on February 23, 2026.
According to the statement, Mr. Saminu was at the Damagum Police Division strictly in the lawful discharge of his professional duties as counsel to a detained client when he was allegedly subjected to hostility and physical assault. The Branch alleged that on the directive of the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Muhammad Abdullahi Baffah, the lawyer was pushed, slapped, beaten, and forcefully dragged out of the station premises in the presence of armed officers.Law Enforcement Gear
The NBA further stated that the lawyer sustained bodily injuries and suffered damage to his personal property as a result of the incident.
Describing the allegations as extremely grave, the Branch noted that if established, the actions would amount to violations of constitutionally guaranteed rights, including the right to dignity of the human person, personal liberty, and fair hearing as provided under the 1999 Constitution (as amended). It added that any obstruction of access to counsel strikes at the heart of the administration of justice and undermines the rule of law.
“The attack on a legal practitioner in the lawful discharge of professional duties is an attack on the justice system itself,” the statement read, emphasizing that the independence of the Bar and the right of citizens to legal representation are fundamental pillars of a democratic society.
In its petition to the Commissioner of Police, the NBA Damaturu Branch demanded: The immediate commencement of a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the incident; The identification and suspension of officers found to be involved, pending investigation; Appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with the Nigeria Police Act, 2020; Criminal prosecution where investigation reveals criminal liability; A written update to the Branch within seven days detailing steps taken.Nigerian Events Calendar
The Branch called on the Yobe State Police Command to treat the matter with urgency in order to preserve public confidence in law enforcement institutions and uphold the integrity of the justice system.
It reiterated its commitment to the defense of the rule of law and the protection of the rights of legal practitioners and citizens alike.
Copies of the petition were also sent to the Inspector-General of Police, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 15, the Police Service Commission, the State Director of the State Security Service, Yobe State, the NBA National President, and the Yobe State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.
