NBA Expresses Concern as EFCC Officers Allegedly Assault Lawyer in Ibadan

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan Branch, has raised serious concerns following allegations that officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) physically assaulted a lawyer at the agency’s Ibadan Zonal Command while he was seeking bail for a client

According to reports, Oluwaseyi Idowu, a legal practitioner, was reportedly slapped, kicked, and forcibly dragged out of the EFCC office by three officers on November 25, 2025, after insisting on the legal right to request bail for his client. Eyewitness accounts, including that of another lawyer, Busari Basit, claim the officers verbally abused Idowu, calling him “an impostor” and “fake lawyer” before escalating to physical violence In response, the NBA Ibadan Branch, led by Chairman Ibrahim Lawal, condemned the incident as “a shocking act of misconduct” and “blatant abuse of power by public officials.” The association has demanded an immediate and thorough investigation into the matter, insisting that any officer found culpable should face appropriate sanctions The NBA further emphasized that lawyers’ rights to represent their clients are protected by law, and no public official has the authority to violate these rights without just cause. The association indicated its readiness to approach the courts to reinforce legal protections for lawyers in such circumstances. This incident adds to a growing list of reported clashes between lawyers and EFCC officers. Past grievances include alleged harassment and misconduct, highlighting ongoing tensions in the enforcement of anti-graft measures and professional conduct standards. The EFCC, which has in recent years dismissed several officers for misconduct, has yet to comment publicly on the latest allegations. Observers note that the outcome of any investigation could significantly affect public trust in the commission and shape future interactions between lawyers and law enforcement agencies. The NBA and civil society groups are closely monitoring the situation, calling for accountability and adherence to due process to prevent recurrence of such incidents.