The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Jos Branch, has successfully intervened to secure the release of two of its members, Hero Tawal, Esq. and J. A. Chaka, Esq., who were unlawfully detained by the Eagle Eye Unit of the Nigerian Police Force at the Abattoir Division in Jos. The lawyers were detained on May 10, 2025, in a clear violation of their constitutional rights, with the NBA condemning the incident. Tensions escalated when Ralph Money, a former Chairman of the NBA Jos Branch, was allegedly assaulted by the head of the Eagle Eye Unit during the event.
In response to the unlawful detention, the NBA leadership, working closely with senior legal figures, engaged with the Commissioner of Police for Plateau State. A formal petition outlining the police officers’ misconduct was submitted on May 12, 2025, calling attention to the violation and emphasizing that the lawyers were simply performing their professional duties.
Following this intervention, the Commissioner of Police ordered the transfer of the head of the Eagle Eye Unit and two other officers involved in the incident. He assured the NBA that a full investigation would be conducted, and the appropriate disciplinary actions would be taken. The CP also emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong and cooperative relationship between the Bar and the Police in the pursuit of justice in Plateau State.
Hero Tawal, Esq. and J. A. Chaka, Esq. have since regained their freedom, with the NBA offering them support as they explore legal avenues for further action. The NBA Jos Branch expressed gratitude to Bar leaders and members, including Elder L. D. Dafer, L. E. Anyia, N. I. Darong, Grace S. Mamswa, Samson Gotom, James Kigun, and others, for their timely intervention and contributions in resolving the matter swiftly.
