The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Yenagoa Branch has strongly criticized statements allegedly made by Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, which reportedly included threats and derogatory remarks against the judiciary and Justice S.W. Amadubogha of the Bayelsa State High Court.
CP Idu reportedly criticized Justice Amadubogha for delivering a judgment that resulted in the release of an accused kidnapper. It was alleged that Idu expressed a desire to arrest the judge, restrained only by his subordinates’ advice.
In a statement, NBA Yenagoa Branch Chairman, Barrister Somina Johnbull, described Idu’s comments as an abuse of office, questioning his suitability for the position of Commissioner of Police.
Johnbull stated, “The open attack on the justice system and Justice Amadubogha is condemnable and represents an attempt to intimidate and undermine the judiciary, which all people of goodwill should stand against.”
He emphasized that judicial decisions are based on admissible evidence and that if CP Idu was dissatisfied with the judgment, the appropriate response would be to file an appeal, not to publicly denigrate the judge.
“It is shocking that CP Idu boasted about potentially ordering the arrest of Justice Amadubogha. Such effrontery is unacceptable,” Johnbull added.
Johnbull highlighted that legal actions against a judge for official acts are impermissible, referencing the Supreme Court’s decision in FRN v Nganjiwa (2022) 17 NWLR (PT 1860) 407, which asserts the immunity of judges from such actions.
He also noted that following the contentious judgment, Justice Amadubogha’s police orderly was recalled, and he urged the police authorities to restore the judge’s security arrangements immediately.
Johnbull pointed out that CP Idu’s actions violated the Police Act and deviated from the professional conduct exemplified by Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
“We will promptly forward the press report of CP Idu’s actions to the President and the National Executive Committee of the NBA for attempting to intimidate judges in Bayelsa State,” Johnbull said. He called on CP Idu to either issue a disclaimer if misquoted or publicly apologize for his remarks against the judiciary.
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