#EndSARS:Judicial panel in Ogun submits report on Police Brutality

The State Governor Dapo  Abiodun said implementing the recommendation will enhance a peaceful society which will engender more robust relationship between the people and security agencies.

Abiodun gave the assurance in Abeokuta, the state capital, while receiving the report from the Panel members for their selfless efforts and contributions towards the successful completion of the task.

“I believe that the implementation of this report will end the gory experience often encountered by residents of the State,” the Governor stated.

Governor Abiodun, who appreciated the panel, said it was important for Nigerians and security agencies to ensure and foster a continued and mutually beneficial relationship.

He also appreciated the youths, security agencies, media,  religious and community leaders, market men and women and other people of goodwill for their contributions to the development of the State.

The Chairman of the Panel, Justice Solomon Olugbemi said that the Panel after its findings and recommendations, a total payment of over N218m as compensation for 42 families of victims of police brutality and violation of human rights by other security personnel in Ogun State.

According to Justice Olugbemi the Panel also recommended investigation and discipline where appropriate, prosecution of certain personnel to serve as deterrent and in the interest of justice.

He revealed that the Panel received a total of 106 petitions, out of which 58 were treated and the remaining 48 were either withdrawn, rejected or abandoned wholly or half-way by the petitioners.

”The 289 page report captured the testimonies and evidences of gory details of torture, unjustifiable shootings, inhumane treatment and other forms of human rights abuses leading to brain damage, spinal cord injuries, permanent disability, death, loss of livelihood, unlawful seizure of personal properties and various forms of atrocities,” he said.

Justice Olugbemi disclosed that most of the Police officers that the panel came across were found to be grossly deficient in knowledge and professional training required for efficiency in the Police Force, urging government to put machinery in place to address the situation.

Lateefah Ibrahim