The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Jos Branch, has successfully intervened in the unlawful detention of two of its members-Hero Tawal, Esq. and J. A. Chaka, Esq.- by the Eagle Eye Unit of the Nigerian Police Force, Abattoir Division, Jos.
The two lawyers were reportedly detained on May 10, 2025, in what the NBA described as a gross violation of their constitutional rights. The incident escalated when Mr. Ralph Money, a past Chairman of the Branch and the first to intervene at the scene, was allegedly assaulted by the head of the Eagle Eye Unit.
In response, the leadership of the NBA JoS Branch, in collaboration with senior members of the Bar, promptly engaged with the Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command.
A formal petition was submitted during a meeting held with the CP on May 12, 2025, outlining the disturbing conduct of the police officers involved and stressing that the lawyers were only performing their professional duties by representing clients.
Following the engagement, the Commissioner of Police ordered the immediate transfer of the head of the Eagle Eye Unit and two other officers implicated in the harassment and detention of the lawyers. The CP also assured the NBA that a thorough inquiry and appropriate disciplinary actions would follow.
Reaffirming the relationship between the Bar and the Police, the CP emphasized that such misconduct would not be tolerated and pledged to maintain a cooperative approach in the administration of justice in Plateau State.
As of now, both Hero Tawal, Esq. and J. A. Chaka, Esq. have regained their liberty and are receiving support from the Branch to explore all legal remedies available to them.
The Chairman of the NBA Jos Branch also extended appreciation to Bar leaders and members including Elder L. D. Dafer, L. E. Anyia, N. 1. Darong, Grace S. Mamswa, Samson Gotom, James Kigun, and others who joined in the visit to the CP and contributed to the swift resolution of the matter.
