The Nigerian Bar Association has commended the Bayelsa State Police Command for its swift action in dismissing Sergeant Obrientele Ebiarede over his alleged involvement in the abduction of a Bayelsa State High Court Judge, Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro.
The Yenagoa Branch of the NBA described the action of the police as timely, courageous, and a strong signal that criminal conduct within the state will not be tolerated. The association also pledged its full support in ensuring that all arrested suspects are diligently prosecuted.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Chairman of the NBA Yenagoa Branch, Clement B. Kekemeke, said, “The NBA Yenagoa Branch commends the Bayelsa State Police Command for the prompt dismissal of Sergeant Obrientele Ebiarede and the arrest of eight other suspects.
We are pleased that the command acted decisively in a matter that shook the judiciary and threatened public confidence in the rule of law.”
Kekemeke also assured the judiciary and the general public that the NBA would offer prosecutorial support and monitor the legal proceedings closely to ensure justice is served.
According to police reports, Sergeant Ebiarede, an indigene of Foutorugbene in Ekeremor Local Government Area, was dismissed after he absconded from duty for over 30 days and was implicated in the logistics of the abduction of Justice Omukoro.
The Command, under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Francis Idu, declared him a deserter under Section 398(1) of the Police Act and Regulations, 2020.
The Commissioner further revealed that operatives from the Department of State Services and Operation Puff Adder had already arrested eight suspects, including six men and two women, in connection with the case. A motorcycle reportedly used by the dismissed officer to aid the kidnappers was recovered from one of the suspects’ residences.
Police sources confirmed that official signals have been sent to all state commands and zonal offices across the country to locate and apprehend the fugitive officer. Additionally, salary payments for the deserter have been halted.
The Bayelsa State Police Command reiterated its resolve to rid the force of bad elements and restore public confidence in its operations. Investigations are ongoing.
Justice Omukoro was kidnapped in June and held in captivity for 13 days. Although no ransom was paid before his release, his abductors had reportedly demanded N300 million in foreign currency.
Kekemeke concluded, “This case is not only about Justice Omukoro; it is about the integrity of our justice system and the safety of every judicial officer. The NBA is fully committed to ensuring that those behind this heinous act face the full weight of the law.”
On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, it was reported that abductors of Bayelsa State judge, Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro, have been arrested by the state police command.
Governor Douye Diri disclosed the arrest on Wednesday during the State Executive Council Meeting in Government House, Yenagoa.
