NBA Slams DSS for Blocking Lawyers from Federal High Court Abuja

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the Department of State Security Service (DSS) for preventing lawyers from accessing the Federal High Court in Abuja. According to reports, DSS operatives were stationed at the court gate, screening and barring lawyers from entering the premises, even those with scheduled court appearances.

The NBA’s Citizens’ Engagement Committee, led by Chairman Kunle Edun, SAN, expressed deep concern over the incident, citing a complaint from Abuja-based lawyer Tosin Ojaomo. Edun emphasized that courts are public institutions and must remain accessible to all, particularly lawyers with legitimate business to conduct.

The DSS operatives’ actions, including possessing court cause lists and selectively allowing lawyers to enter, have sparked outrage. The arrest of a lawyer attempting to record the security agents’ actions further exacerbated the situation.

The NBA’s condemnation underscores the importance of access to justice and the rule of law. By blocking lawyers from entering the court, the DSS operatives’ actions potentially undermine the integrity of the judicial process.

This incident raises questions about the role of security agencies in the administration of justice. Will the DSS review its actions, or will the NBA continue to push for greater accountability? The outcome will likely have significant implications for the justice system in Nigeria.