The Damaturu branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the alleged assault of one of its members, Muhammad Muhammad Saminu, by officers of the Damagum Divisional Police Headquarters in Yobe State.

The association said the incident occurred on February 23, 2026, while the lawyer was carrying out his professional duties on behalf of a client.

The condemnation was contained in a petition signed yesterday in Damaturu by the branch Chairman, Ahmad Khalil, and copied to the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, Emmanuel Ado.

In the petition, Khalil described the alleged assault as “a flagrant violation of constitutional rights and an attack on the administration of justice and fair play to the two parties.”

He stated that “Mr Saminu was at the Damagum Police Station in the lawful discharge of his professional duties as counsel to a detained client, when he was allegedly assaulted by some policemen.”

The NBA branch alleged that the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Muhammad Abdullahi Baffah, and other officers under his command subjected the lawyer to hostility, including physical assault and degrading treatment within the station’s premises.

Khalil further alleged: “Our member sustained multiple injuries and the destruction of his personal effects and property during the unwarranted assault on Saminu.”

He added that if the allegations were confirmed, the actions would amount to violations of constitutional rights to dignity, personal liberty and fair hearing.

The association said interfering with a lawyer while performing professional duties undermines the rule of law and public confidence in the justice system.

The NBA branch therefore demanded an immediate, independent and transparent investigation into the matter.

Khalil called for the suspension of officers found to be involved, appropriate disciplinary action in line with the Nigerian Police Act, and prosecution where criminal liability is established.

The association also requested a written response from the police command within one week, reiterating its commitment to defending the rule of law and protecting legal practitioners in the discharge of their duties.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Yobe State Police Command, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, said the case was under investigation, adding that the Commissioner of Police was meeting with NBA officials in Damaturu.