Photos: Ekweremadu, Ofor, Nnaji, Igwesi, others, grace burial of Nkanu West LG Chairman’s mother
His Excellency, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, PhD, CFR (Ikeoha Ndigbo) was among dignitaries who were at Umuatugbuoma, Akegbe-Ugwu, Nkanu West, during the weekend to commiserate with the Council Chairman, Nkanu West LGA, Chief Nwabueze Nnamani (Ikeoha), over the passing on of his dear mother, the late Ezinne Susan Uzo-Nwanshi Nnamani (Nee Nsude). Ekweremadu described her death as a collective loss to the entire Enugu State and prayed for the peaceful repose of Mama’s souls.
Ekweremadu and Nnamani
Also present were Captain Evarest Nnaji (Odengene), CEO, Odengene Air Shuttle, Rt. Hon. Nnoli Nnaji (Ozoigbondu), Member Representing Nkanu East & West Federal Constituency,
Rt. Hon. Chief U.S.A Igwesi (Ikemba) former Member Representing Nkanu East & West Federal Constituency and Rt. Hon. Prince Ofor Chukwuegbo, Member Representing Enugu North & South Federal Constituency.
Others were Amb. Goddy Agbo, Dr. Ben Nwoye, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa, Hon. Henry Okenwa,
Ohaa & Barr. Emeka OkekeNnamani & Ike ObiChief Friday ChukwuDr. Ben Nwoye
Hon. John Ogbodo (Ọ ji efi eme ogo), Chief Friday Chukwu (Akpazieaku), Dr. Ike Obi, Enugu State Honorable Commissioner for Health, Hon. Solomon Onah, Enugu State ALGON Chairman, Hon. Uwabunkeonye Nnamoko, Rt. Hon. Iloabuchi Aniagu, Hon. Onyeka Onwe, Traditional rulers, the Clergy, numerous top local & state government functionaries, among others.
The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine is a privately owned, quarterly published, multimedia, multi-connect, cosmopolitan, print and online magazine established in 2003 and based in Enugu with a market audience and base cutting across the Southeast and Southsouth geopolitical zones.
As part of our efforts to have a sane, orderly and just society, one that her citizens will be proud of, as well as appreciating the contributions of eminent and outstanding individuals to building this kind of society, The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine team resolved to kick off an Annual Public Lecture Series and Awards dubbed Frontier Discourse.
The details of the event are;
Date: November 13, 2021
Venue: Bon Hotel Sunshine, Presidential Road, Independence Layout, Enugu.
Time: 2.30pm (Red Carpet)
Mr. Oseloka H. Obaze, a former UN Diplomat, former Anambra SSG, 2017 Anambra State PDP Guber Flagbearer/Candidate and Anambra State Chairman of the 2019 Atiku-Obi Presidential Campaign Council is the Keynote Speaker and will deliver a lecture on the topic Mental Power at the Mercy of Political Will; Nigerian Politics and Its Conscious Play to Ignorance.
He will be joined in a panel session that will follow suit by His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Prof. Ike Ekweremadu, CFR, Fmr. Deputy President of the Senate, who is also one of the Special Guests of Honor and Hon. Steve Oruruo, Special Adviser on Information to the Executive Governor of Enugu State. His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Executive Governor of Enugu State, is billed to grace the occasion as the Chief Guest of Honor and the recipient of the Governor of the Year Award. Former Minister for Information, Frank Nweke II will be the Chairman of the Event. His Excellency Governor Okwesilieze Nwodo, former Governor of Enugu State is also one of the Special Guests of Honor. The Royal & Spiritual Fathers of the day are HRM, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III (Obi of Otolo & Igwe of Nnewi) HRH, Igwe Amb. Lawrence Agubuzu & HRH, Eze Barr. Igwesi O. Igwesi and His Grace, Most Revd. Dr. E.O Chukwuma respectively, among other dignitaries.
Award Recipients
Following the concluded Nominations for Awards in some categories by The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine for her maiden Annual Public Lecture Series and Awards dubbed Frontier Discourse, and the entire voting process which saw a record total of 5,286 votes spread across 16 countries of the world, including USA, UK, UAE, Romania, France, Ghana, Canada, Netherlands, etc, The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine is pleased to announce that, having been counted as scorers of the highest votes, the following persons, in no particular order, have emerged as the final Awardees.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo
Professor Bartholomew Nnaji
BUSINESS PERSONALITY AWARD
Engr. Paul Basil Iloegbouba
Hon. Chinedu Hillary Onuh
YOUTH ICON AWARD
Hon. Arinze Chilo-Offiah
Mr. Debo Adedayo (Debo Macaroni)
WOMAN OF THE TIME AWARD
Prof. Joy Ngozi Ezeilo
Mrs. Aisha Yesufu
Speaking, the Chairman & Publisher, Onochie Jon-Igwesi, while thanking the public for participating in the voting process, noted that the editorial team of the magazine which also doubles as the Host Organizing Committee (HOC) deliberately omitted some categories from the voting process. In his words “2020 is the Year in focus for all categories of awards. The editorial team of the magazine which is also the HOC deliberately omitted some categories from the voting process. For instance, one of such categories is the Most Significant Event of the Year. At the end of a cursory look at all events that happened in the Nigerian space in 2020, though few, since the most of 2020 was spent in the Coronavirus lockdown, the team unanimously agreed that the #EndSars Protest was a landmark and significant event of 2020. This award will be conferred on the Nigerian Youths for pulling a feat never before seen in the history of the country”. Those categories are:
GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR ON PEACE & WELFARE AWARD
His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ifeanyi Lawrence Ugwuanyi (Executive Governor of Enugu State)
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested a socialite Obinna Iyiegbu, better known as Obi Cubana.
Obi Cubana is being questioned at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. He arrived at the EFCC office around noon on Monday.
Although details of allegations against the Anambra-born tycoon are still sketchy, a source told Channels Television that his case borders on alleged money laundering and tax fraud.
When contacted, the spokesman of the Commission, Wilson Uwujaren said he was yet to be briefed on the development.
Earlier in the year, Obi Cubana made headlines and trended on social media following a lavish burial ceremony for his late mother in the South East state.
His meteoric rise to fame has also seen him feature in comedy skits.
South-East Council of Traditional Rulers and representatives of Igbo Archbishops and Bishops; and the World Igbo Congress, WIC, have appealed to the federal government, to release the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.Similarly, the groups also expressed “deep concern” over the high level of insecurity and socio-economic disruption in the southeast geo-political zone of the country.
The plea was part of a nine-point communiqué issued after their meeting and signed by the Catholic Archbishops of Owerri and Onitsha, Most Rev. Anthony J. V. Obinna and Most Rev. Valerian M. Okeke, respectively.
Signatories to the communique also included the Methodist Bishop of Umuahia, Most Rev. Chibuzor R. Opoko; Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, South East Zone, Rev. Dr. Abraham Nwali ; and the Past Principal Secretary, Presbyterian Church Nigeria, Most Rev. Dr. Uma A. Onwunta.
Other signatories are: Chairmen of the State Councils of Traditional Rulers of Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States, Obi Nnaemeka Achebe; Igwe Charles Mkpuma, Igwe L. O. C. Agubuzu, and Eze E. C. Okeke respectively.
The communiqué read: “We, the South East Council of Traditional Rulers and the Representatives of Igbo Archbishops and Bishops, note with deep concern, the high level of insecurity and socio-economic disruption in the southeast zone of Nigeria.
“This has deepened the hardships being faced by the citizens and rendered prostrate, the socio-political and economic lives of our people.
“Flowing from similar initiatives taken to bring peace to other troubled parts of the country, we urge the Federal Government and other stakeholders, to explore dialogue and negotiation in resolving critical issues that threaten national unity, cohesion, and development.
“Accordingly, we refer to our earlier request for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to the South East Council of Traditional Rulers and the Representatives of Igbo Archbishops and Bishops and restate this call even more strongly.
“We are of the firm belief that this act of courage and statesmanship is not only imperative but will speedily de-escalate the heightened state of insecurity and dislocation in the southeast zone.
“We also urge President Muhammadu Buhari and the Federal Government, to take immediate steps to de-proscribe the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and release all IPOB members being held in various detention facilities in Nigeria.
“We call on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to demilitarize the southeast zone, moreso as it has become apparent that a continued military siege on the region can only lead to heightened tension, skirmishes, and endless bloodletting between the security agencies and our youths.
“It has become urgent, imperative, and compelling to de-emphasize the military option and move towards finding a political solution that will lead to sustainable peace.
“We assert that heightened inequality and marginalization remain at the core of youth restiveness in our region.
“We urge our apex national leadership to note that until it takes deliberate steps to run the government based on fairness, equity, justice, and non-discrimination, this restiveness is likely to continue.”
While saying that they shall respectfully seek audience with Mr. President, to discuss these issues in exploring political solution and the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, they also promised that: “On our part, we assure our youths that we have heard their cries of marginalization, injustice, and longsuffering.
“As concerned parents, we feel your pain. However, we urge you to de-escalate the tension and remain law-abiding to enable us to engage especially the Federal Government in finding a lasting solution to the crisis.”
Addressing the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Anambra State, the group said: “Consistent with the above, we urge IPOB not to do anything that would hinder or be seen to be hindering the smooth running of the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State and to cancel the scheduled sit-at-home orders, as these have already caused untold hardship for our people.
“Finally, we call on all the candidates in the forthcoming Anambra State Governorship Election to eschew violence and commit to a free, fair, and credible election.”
WIC demands release of Kanu, other Igbo youths
The World Igbo Congress, WIC, stated that it was miffed with the political developments in Nigeria, particularly as it relates to Anambra State, and asked the federal government and its apparatuses to de-escalate the tension and demonstrate a genuine desire to conduct free and fair elections to improve the country’s political and economic development.
WIC in addition to the demand for the release of all detained Igbo youths also asked the federal government to constitute a wide political conference that will address pertinent issues of injustice and inequity in the polity to save the nation.
According to the WIC Public Relations Officer, Hon. Basil Onwukwe, the increased agitation for equity and fairness in governance was real and solutions required, which it tasked the federal government to act on the matters as urgently as possible.
The group painted a bleak future of the country whose youths were in the highest voting demography but are either incarcerated in various security cells or prisons in Nigeria.
“The heightened insecurity in a militarized southeast region explains it all and is driving the desire to abandon the election in Anambra State.
“It is worrisome that after the recent coordinated violence targeted to destabilize Anambra State, the security agents have not made any credible arrests of the killers.
“All the desperate plans to pitch Ndigbo against each other has failed while deliberate attempt to replicate Imo State playbook is in the works, but any decision to enthrone election by a selection of rejected candidates again in Igboland will not be acceptable.
“We urge the federal government to take an honorable decision of releasing innocent Igbo youths in various DSS custody, including Nnamdi Kanu, and constitute a wide political conference that will address the pertinent issues of injustice and inequity in the polity to save the nation.
“That’s what a federal government that sees all the citizens as equal partners should do,” Onwukwe said.
A Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday adjourned the trial of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, till November 10.
Trial Justice Binta Nyako fixed the date after the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) informed the court that it had filed a fresh seven-count charge against Kanu.
After the fresh counts were read to him, Kanu pleaded not guilty. He also challenged the competence of the charge and the court’s jurisdiction to try the case in a fresh application.
Kanu, it was gathered, requested to be transferred to the Kuje Correctional Centre in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). However, Justice Nyako declined and directed that three people of his choice should be allowed to visit him in the DSS custody on Thursdays.
The amended charge include secession threat, description of President Mohammadu Buhari as a terrorist and idiot; being member of IPOB and inciting IPOB members to kill security operatives.
Kanu had been granted bail in April 2017 on health grounds. But, he skipped bail after flouting some of the conditions given to him by the court.
IPOB was subsequently declared a terrorist group by the Federal Government.
He was arrested and returned to Nigeria from Kenya on June 20. On June 28 when he was taken to court by the DSS for his treason trial to continue, Justice Nyako ordered that he should be remanded in DSS custody.
On July 26 when the case was to restart, the DSS failed to produce him.
Kanu, dressed in grey Fendi attire, entered the court around 10am, guarded by the DSS.
Shortly after the proceedings, his lawyers took pictures with him.
His lead counsel, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, said he was challenging the court’s jurisdiction on the grounds that the alleged offences were committed in the United Kingdom and not in Nigeria.
Before his arrival, there was pandemonium at the court’s entrance as lawyers clashed with DSS personnel for refusing them access into the premises.
Court officials were made to stand in queue and searched before being allowed into the court premises.
Some reporters who were allowed in did not go beyond the ground floor of the five-floor court building. The proceedings were held on the fifth floor.
Some security agents said they were instructed to prevent media coverage of the proceedings.
Prominent Nigerians, including a former Anambra State Governor Chukwuemeka Ezeife; leader of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Chief Ralph Uwazurike, and Senator Ifeanyi Uba (Anambra South) were also prevented from witnessing the proceedings.
Eziefe, who arrived at the court with Ejiofor, lamented that he could not see the IPOB leader after being left in the sun for hours.
But, the former governor, who heads the Ohanaeze Ndigbo team monitoring the trial, said the development would herald the birth of a new Nigeria.
Uba frowned at the way he was treated, arguing that as a senator, he ought to be allowed to witness the case.
An activist, Deji Adeyanju, said: “At least, even under military rule, journalists would be given access to the courts. Members of the general public could also access the court. But today (yesterday) the reverse is the case. It is most unfortunate and unbelievable that this is supposed to be a democracy.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo said Kanu’s appearance in court amounted to the beginning of victory.
“This is one step forward in Ohanaeze’s determined moves towards ensuring that the Afara Ukwu Prince is set free in no distant time,” its spokesman, Chiedozie Ogbonnia, said in a statement.
The organisation urged youths in the Southeast to show restraints, prudence, and maturity in their legitimate demands for equity, justice, and fairness.
The statement reads in part: “The diplomatic engagements by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has apparently yielded a positive result as the Federal Government has through the DSS bowed to the overwhelming demands of Ndigbo by producing Kanu in court.
“We are unrelenting in our resolve to ensure that the government toes the path of wisdom by conceding to the proposal for ‘Dialogue and Alternative Dispute Resolution’ which will ensure the unconditional freedom of Mazi Kanu and all members of IPOB detained across Nigeria.”
Demanding unconditional release of Kanu, IPOB said he has not “committed any crime to deserve persecution”
It also asked the Federal Government to prepare a date for a referendum on Biafra.
In a statement by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, IPOB commended those that played various roles in ensuring that Kanu was produced in court.
He said: “We wish to commend all the honorable men and women, including renowned groups in the world who lent their voices in advising Federal Government and the DSS to produce our leader Nnamdi Kanu today (yesterday) in court.
“Those who played a role in producing our leader in court have done Nigeria and DSS some great service. Thank God, they listened to wise counsel and did not fail to produce our leader in court today.
“Now that he appeared in court today, and Biafran can confirm that he is alive, Nigeria must do the needful and release him unconditionally.
Read Also: Umuahia, Aba deserted as IPOB’s Kanu appears in court
“Nigeria government should prepare a date for the referendum on Biafra. Those who want to sabotage Biafra freedom should wait for referendum date.”
After the adjournment, Kanu’s supporters, who were also barred from the court premises burst into solidarity songs.
An activist, Omoyele Sowore, was allegedly attacked by hoodlums.
He was standing outside the court premises when the hoodlums swooped on him.
DSS operatives warned the attackers to back off.
Sowore explained why he was in the court.
He said: “I am here to check the registry because for a while I have not been charged to court. I need to know about my treason case.
“Also, I am here to witness the trial of my friend, Nnamdi Kanu. The courtroom is incomplete, except the public observers watch and if it is a secrete trial, the public must know it‘s a secrete trial. You cannot have a secret trial in a public courtroom.”
A shop, fully stocked with provisions, cosmetics, and household items, was yesterday morning set ablaze by hoodlums enforcing another sit-at-home order in Enugu State.
The hoodlums also set ablaze a container truck conveying goods to Abakaliki, Ebonyi State in another at Eke Obinagu.
The driver of the truck belonging to a popular transport company was said to have escaped unhurt.
IPOB had threatened a one-month sit-at-home beginning from yesterday if Kanu was not produced in court.
The threat also made residents of Ebonyi, Abia, Anambra, and Imo states stay indoors to avoid being attacked by enforcers of the order.
The owner of the shop in Ekeagu was said to have opened in defiance of the order when a group of youths arrived and set fire to it.
Eyewitnesses said: “They dragged the shop owner out while one of them went to their vehicle to get petrol with which they set the shop ablaze. They also ensured that the fire totally gutted the shop and its contents”
Banks, parks, schools major roads, and streets, including fuel stations, remained under lock and key in all the five Southeast states.
The Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) has warned the Federal Government not to fail to produce leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, in court tomorrow.
It said Kanu’s absence in court would bring devastating destruction to Nigeria as “it will be a proof of evidence that he has been killed in DSS detention cage. Nigeria government should know what it means and the follow up reaction if Nnamdi Kanu is denied his physical appearance in the court.”
The group’s leader, Uchenna Madu, in a statement, yesterday, said MASSOB is fully backing the civil disobedience call by IPOB directing people in the South East to sit-at-home any day Kanu would be brought to court.
“In the spirit of Biafranism and brotherhood among pro-Biafra agitators, we have declared full support for the call for civil disobedience and total economic and social lockdown against Nigeria state for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
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“In the spirit of collaboration and for Biafra sake, MASSOB will engage positively in every step, programme and activity that will effect the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
“We support other moves that draw Biafra closer to actualization. We shall continue to collaborate and partner with every positive move and step that will effect the release of our other comrades in different Nigeria prisons mostly in Awka and Onitsha detention camps.”
Madu explained that the call for closure of markets, public/private motor parks, schools and other public business premises was voluntary, adding that it is a mark of respect and love for Igbo land and the detained IPOB leader.
“MASSOB, IPOB and other pro-Biafra groups will not molest, compel or intimidate anybody to observe the stay-at-home exercise as all our members shall stay indoors, there shall be no physical demonstration, street march, procession or any other public functions tomorrow in Biafra land.”
Condemning the heavy presence of security forces especially the military in parts of South East since Monday this week, MASSOB said those were signs of military jittery, fear and cowardice.
Madu reasoned that the panic created by the presence of soldiers will assist immensely and positively on the people to comply with the call for sit-at-home.
MASSOB noted that the security agents were complementing and justifying the Biafra struggle and therefore, categorically demanded the unconditional release of the IPOB leader.
“No amount of security intimidation, mesmerization, killings, detention, oppression, incarceration etc will ever stop the will power of an indigenous people for self-determination,” MASSOB stated.
Human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, has stated that the Lagos State Police Command have no power to stop street protests.
He made this known in a statement on Tuesday titled, ‘A Rejoinder to Nigeria Police Force Lagos Command!’, where he insisted that the planned protests would still hold on the 20th of October.
Entertainers and key players in the protest Falz and Mr Macaroni, had earlier announced that a memorial car procession would be held at Lekki Tollgate in Lagos.
However, the police had stated that only indoor and virtual protests would be allowed on Wednesday.
Reacting to that, Sowore said, “Our attention has been drawn to the latest statement credited to the Lagos state Command of the Nigeria Police to the effect that no “street protests” will be allowed tomorrow (Wednesday) to mark the historic #Endsars rebellion of 2020 and its attendant fallout due to police repression and Nigerian army’s murderous intervention.
“We state unequivocally that it not within the powers of the Nigerian police to stop citizens from engaging in street protests, the right to engage in protest against unjust policies, tyranny and oppression is an inalienable right and as such these latest claims are at best superfluous and belligerently arrogant.
“We urge the police authorities to ensure they carry out their duties to protect protesters who will be on the streets by way of cars, bicycles, tricycles, skateboards and by foot all over Lagos and its environs tomorrow (Wednesday).
“The Lagos state police commissioner will be personally held liable if anything untoward happens to any Nigerian citizen engagin lawful protest during the #Endsars anniversary.
“We urge our compatriots to remain steadfast and prepare fully to carry out their conscientious duties and historical tasks tomorrow (Wednesday).”
Amnesty International says the Nigerian government has failed to bring perpetrators of violence and killings of peaceful protesters during the October 2020 #EndSARS protests to justice.
The protests were led by the youth across many Nigerian cities and towns against rights violations and brutality perpetrated by the operatives of the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), and other police tactical units.
The global human rights body said it found out that the Nigerian army and the police murdered 12 people at the peak of the protest on October 20 at Lekki Tollgate in Lagos.
Today, the historic protest and the chain of events that led to the alleged killings at Lekki Tollgate and protests are being commemorated, one year after.
The Lagos State #EndSARS panel that was meant to unravel the the circumstances that culminated into the shootings on October 20 at Lekki has said it will submit its findings to the state government, despite the demand for justice for victims of the incident.
#EndSARS panel is the common name referring to the various panels of inquiry set up in about 28 states and Abuja to investigate cases of rights infringements and brutality unleashed on Nigerians by the personnel of the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), and other police tactical units.
The federal and state governments had resolved to set up the panels in response to the demands of the #EndSARS protests.
In a statement commorating the protests, Amnesty International said despite claims of broad reforms by the Nigerian government, the police operatives continue to violate the rights of citizens with impunity.
Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba
It lamented that in spite of the establishment of #EndSARS panels across the country, victims of police brutality were yet to get justice.
In a desperate move to quell the protests, the government recruited hoodlums who unleashed violence on peaceful protesters with a view to discrediting the genuine concerns raised by the demonstrators.
Lekki Tollgate shooting
As the various panels turn in their findings, Amnesty International says, “One year after peaceful #EndSARS protests ended in a brutal crackdown by Nigerian security forces in Abuja, Lagos and other parts of the country, no one has been brought to justice for the torture, violence, and killings of peaceful protesters.
“An investigation by the organisation found that Nigerian army and police killed at least 12 people on 20 October 2020 at Lekki toll gate and Alausa in Lagos. Amnesty International was able to establish that pro-government supporters instigated violence at many of the demonstrations, providing cover for the police to use lethal force against peaceful protesters.
“The organisation also found that detained protesters were tortured and refused or denied immediate access to lawyers.
“A year on, despite the gravity of these human rights violations, not a single member of the security forces has been prosecuted while judicial panels of inquiry set up to investigate abuses by officers have made little progress,” the statement said.
‘Fulfil promise to reform police’
Osai Ojigho, director of Amnesty International Nigeria, said President Muhammadu Buhari must fulfill his promise of reforming the police to end the reign of impunity Nigerians have been protesting against for many years.
President Muhammadu Buhari
“Failure to bring to justice those suspected to be responsible for the torture and killings of #EndSARS protesters on 20 October 2020 is yet another indication that Nigerian authorities lack the political will to ensure accountability for these atrocities, and end police brutality,” Mr Ojigho was quoted as saying in the statement.
“Under the pretext of restoring order, horrific injuries were inflicted on hundreds of people and at least 56 people were killed, among them dozens of young people lost their lives as Nigerian security forces used unnecessary and excessive force to disperse peaceful protesters across the country.
“It is unacceptable that despite overwhelming evidence, the government continues to deny the use of live ammunition on protesters at Lekki toll gate exactly a year ago,” Mr Ojigho added.
Amnesty International said it had documented incidents at Lekki toll gate in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria, showing the violent response of the Nigerian security forces to peaceful protests.
“The clear aim of the crackdown was to instill fear, discourage peaceful protests and punish those demanding an end to widespread human rights violations by the police,” it said.
Excessive use of force
In tracking the use of excessive force, Amnesty International said “almost every person arrested during the protests described being beaten with the butt of a gun, whips and fists during their arrests.”
Governor-Babajide-Sanwo-Olu
The organisation referenced the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), as saying that “at least 12 journalists were attacked during the #EndSARS protests by security forces and unidentified perpetrators.
“Many of those detained interviewed by Amnesty International said that they were tortured while in detention. In many cases, police abuse continued in detention, in police stations and other holding facilities, and on the way to detention, in police vehicles.
“Several such cases amount to torture and other ill-treatment. Delayed or no access to legal counsel.
Amnesty International revealed that it also documented numerous cases in which police denied or delayed access to lawyers and medical care to detainees.
“This was despite repeated requests from detainees to see or call a lawyer – and repeated requests from lawyers at places of detention to have access to the detainees. Several lawyers and human right defenders said they spent days moving from one police station to another trying to find out where those who had been arrested were being held.
“One person arrested during a protest on 18 October 2020 and held at Lagos state Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Panti, said he repeatedly asked to call a lawyer. He was told by a police officer to shut up. While in detention, he was denied access to a lawyer who had come to see him and was unable to meet with a lawyer until a week after being arrested.
“Providing timely access to lawyers is an important safeguard for many human rights, such as the right to a fair trial and ensuring the detainee’s rights are respected in custody, including the right to access medical care when needed, as well as protection from coerced confessions and torture and other ill-treatment.
‘#EndSARS panels marred by prolonged adjournments’
The foremost human rights body in its assessment of the about 28 #EndSARS panels that were set up by various sate governments and another in Abuja, said there was no commitment to ensuring justice for victims of police violence.
Amnesty International
“Investigative panels set up to look into police brutality have so far been marred by prolonged adjournments, intimidation of witnesses by police lawyers and the failure of police officers to appear as witnesses, according to observer reports verified by Amnesty International. Panels have failed to sit in some states, and in others have gone on an indefinite break,” the statement noted.
“What we observed at these panels is discouraging and clearly shows there is no real commitment to ensuring justice for victims of police violence across Nigeria. These panels raised hopes of getting justice but in some states, this is quickly vanishing,” Mr Ojigho said.
Amnesty International called on the Nigerian government to decisively end police impunity.
“Use of progovernment thugs to violently disperse and undermine peaceful #EndSARS protests must be thoroughly, independently, impartially, and transparently investigated and suspected perpetrators brought to justice in fair trials.
“Nigerians must not be denied the constitutionally and internationally guaranteed right to peaceful protest.
“All those detained or missing since the #EndSARS protests must be immediately released or reunited with their families. Nigerian authorities must ensure access of victims and their families to effective remedies, including adequate compensation, restitution, and guarantee of non-repetition,” Mr Ojigho demanded.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) yesterday said a protest in commemoration of last year’s #EndSARS demonstration is unnecessary.
Sanwo-Olu, who acknowledged that youths have reasons to demand for better life and future, admonished them to embrace dialogue and reconciliation instead of resorting to violent attacks.
The LCCC Director-General, Dr Chinyere Almona, who lamented the impact of the #EndSARS protest on business across the country, pointed out that the business community lost over N700 billion to the protests.
Sanwo-Olu spoke at a peace conference in Lagos with the theme: Rebuilding for Greatness: ‘Peace Conflict Resolution’.
The LCCI chief spoke against the backdrops of the one-year anniversary of the #ENDSARS protest.
Also lamenting the negative impact of the protest, the Ikeja Branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) said the burnt or missing case files in court have slowed down the administration of justice.
The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Organisation (NARTO) complained that it was yet to receive compensation for losses incurred during last year’s protest, which was hijacked by hoodlums who unleashed mayhem on the metropolis.
Yesterday, the police warned against any violent protest in Lagos.
Led by Police Commissioner Hakeem Odumosu, policemen staged a show-of-force in the metropolis to reiterate their earlier warning against street protest.
Also, police, soldiers and other security agents have taken over the Lekki Toll Gate, the centre of last year’s protest.
At the Lagos Peace Conference, the state government and some youth leaders brokered reconciliation and pledge mutual commitment to conflict resolution.
Read Also; Security operatives take over Lekki Tollgate ahead of #EndSARS memorial protest
Many youths across Lagos State, despite the national holiday, turned up for the conference aimed at creating a common platform for the resolution to conflicts.
The youths discussed how they could effectively channel their grievances to the authorities.
The seven-man discussion panel moderated by Mazi Sam Uche Anyamele, a filmmaker, set the tone for the governor’s response to various suggestions by youths at the event.
Sanwo-Olu, dressed in Boys Scouts’ green shirt and light-brown pants, with yellow tie to match, said “the moment for true reconciliation has begun.”
He said Lagos was now set for a total healing after last year’s coordinated attacks on its assets, which also resulted in loss of lives and livelihoods.
Sanwo-Olu stressed: “Today is a day of reconciliation and it is about our teeming youths. This is the moment to create a common ground and take ownership of our future. We have indeed assessed what we have passed through as a people; it’s now the moment to come together and build our lives together.
“This event is about aggregating all the conversations of the millions of youths that have been represented here. All of us have agreed that, when we work together, we can build a resilient society we will truly be proud of. We will continue to build, engage and work with our young people. I certainly will not give up on you as partners in progress and your ability to bring about positive changes.”
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the need for inter-generational dialogue to proactively address issues that may lead to conflict, assuring the participants of his administration’s readiness to champion causes that would be beneficial to young people.
The governor said the youth must not only be granted a stakeholder status in the state’s project, but also be given prime seats in decisions making arena. He said his administration had shown example by appointing scores of young people under 40 years into the State Executive Council, and as political aides and administrators of Government’s agencies.
Sanwo-Olu also promised to increase the State’s investment in human capital development and equip the youths with requisite 21st century skills that would empower them economically.
He said: “I thank all the youths who participated in this forum for the valuable suggestions offered and the ideas shared. I’m taking full responsibility and ownership of all the feedback recommended here. All the points have been taken and I will continue to rely on them in the course of governance.”
Sanwo-Olu highlighted some programmes specifically targetted at youths. He said: “Some of these programmes, which were initiated as part of our efforts to address issues bothering on youth development and empowerment, include remodeling, development and equipping of four youth centres – Abesan, Lafiaji, Ikorodu and Omituntun.
“On October 27, we will be holding the first of its kind Lagos Police Youth Dialogue session where our youths and policemen will deliberate on how to strengthen their relationship and create a synergy that will improve interaction and security in the state.’’
Businesses lost N700b last year
Almona said the LCCI estimated the immediate loss from the EndSARS to be above N700 billion in October last year, with discoveries of more losses after weeks of investigations by the government across the country.
She added: “The 2021 Global Peace Index (GPI) released by the Institute for Economics and Peace ranked Nigeria 146 among 163 independent nations and territories, according to its level of peacefulness in 2020.
“Nigeria moved one step from 147 in 2020 (from 2019 rank), though it still ranked eighth among the least peaceful countries in Africa after South Sudan, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Libya, Central African Republic, Sudan and Mali.
“In 2020, the world witnessed almost 15,000 violent protests and riots.
“The damage it caused came with a hefty price of about 15 trillion dollars or 11.6 per cent of the world’s Gross Domestic Product.
“Among those, more than 5,000 were pandemic-related and were recorded between January 2020 and April 2020.”
Burnt case files worry NBA
Lamenting that the #EndSARS protests, Ikeja NBA said they resulted in loss of lives and property across the country.
He condemned the hoodlums who looted and razed the Igbosere High Court in Lagos Island.
The historic edifice was the oldest judicial building in Nigeria and rebuilding of the court complex is yet to commence.
NBA Ikeja branch chairman, Bartholomew Aguegbodo, said the effects of the #EndSARS protest was still being felt by lawyers as key stakeholders in the administration of justice system.
“There are a lot of hiccups caused by the burning of the courthouse, case files and exhibits got burnt during the #EndSARS crisis and some of those case files are yet to be recovered.
“It was just less than two months ago that alternative solutions were put in place for new courthouses in Yaba and Ikoyi areas of Lagos.
“We are still battling to grasp with the weight of the #EndSARS crisis up till now,” he said.
The NBA chairman noted that following the arson attack, several lost records could not be retrieved because online e-filing system for the judiciary had not fully taken off.
“We believe now that with the formal e-filing system working fully, if we are to have a repeat of the #EndSARS crisis, it will not generate cases of missing files any longer.
“Due to the arson attack, we had instances where both the claimants and the defendants had to bring out records from themselves to reconstruct case files.
“It created a very unhealthy task and up till today, there are a lot of case files that are yet to be reconstructed.”
NARTO laments lack of compensation
NARTO President Alhaji Yusuf Othman complained that the Federal Government has refused to compensate the members of the association.
He said: “There has been no compensation. Nobody listened to us. There is no development. Nobody listened to us. We did not hear anything.”
Othman said NARTO lost over N2 billion as their trucks were burnt.
He added: “We have some trucks that were burnt. Others with drivers and motor boys burnt. Specifically around Imo State, over 100 trucks were burnt with maize, and cattle. And we have taken inventory of these destructions and we have sent to government. We have not heard from them (Government). “We lost more than N2billion. Of course, we cannot quantify the amount of lives (drivers and motor boys) that were lost. Some trucks were burnt at Warri. One or three trucks were burnt around Lagos. But the major destruction was around Aba.”
The Association of Micro Entrepreneurs of Nigeria (AMEN) urged government to implement policies aimed at massive job creation, youth empowerment and engagements and poverty alleviation.
Mr Saviour Iche, its National President, Saviour Iche, said last year’s protest was expected to bring changes, transformation, new agendas and innovative ideas, in view of the way government had handled previous issues that brought about the protest.
According to him, the call for change appears not to have been fully addressed, hence, the need for government to look into the various demands of the youth for improved national outcomes.
Iche advised against any protest during EndSARS anniversary, saying that the impacts would affect the masses more.
“There are people that if they did not go out in a day, they would not eat.
“The high cost of living will lead many people to suffering and the economy will be totally grounded.”
The SOUTH EAST DEBATE’21; Pete Edochie to be on the Panel Session.
Ahead of the South East Debate 2021 which holds today at The Base Landmark Event Center, Enugu, the Nollywood Living Legend, Chief Pete Edochie has confirmed his readiness to participate in the Panel Session to discuss RESTRUCTURING alongside other eminent Nigerians.
The SOUTH EAST DEBATE’21 holds today at The Base Landmark Event Center, near WAEC Bustop, Enugu.
The General Public is hereby Invitation to witness the Biggest Academic Event in South East.
#EndSARS: Families Of Deceased, Wounded Recount Ordeal One Year After Protests
Raji Jimoh, father of late Isiaka Jimoh. Photo: Adejumo Kabir/HumAngle.
Ayoola Ayedungbe was the first child of his family. His three other siblings saw him as their role model and he promised not to let them down as soon as things became rosy for him.
The 29-year-old man graduated from a bible school months earlier and was on the verge of being an evangelist before he was killed by the police during #EndSARS protest violence at Berger, Lagos State.
Days before Ayoola’s death, his mother, a prophetess, had a dream about the incident.
“I called him on Oct. 19, 2020, that I had a bad dream about him and he should not join the #EndSARS protest. I told him to ensure he prays for safety in all his endeavours and I also prayed for him, hoping that no evil would happen to my son,” the mother, who simply identified herself as Mummy Ayoola, said.
“I never knew that the call was going to be my last conversation with my son. I felt all that happened to him was destiny because I prayed.”
Picture used to connect to Ayoola’s family. Photo: Funmi Ayedungbe.
Ayoola’s mother told HumAngle she did not know her son was a victim of the violence following the protests until 18 days after.
“We were told that they placed his pictures on vehicles in Berger with a tag of ‘missing identity #EndSARS victim’. The banner read that those who know Ayoola’s family should tell us to come to male ward at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) in Ikeja.”
“We rushed to LASUTH the following day and all I saw was my son in severe pain. The man who rescued him told us he was shot by the police 18 days earlier at Berger during violent attacks between officers and hoodlums.”
Ayoola gave up two days after his mother got to the hospital. A year after the incident, the family lives in sorrow.
“I cry every time I remember my son or any time I see boys in his age bracket. He was my eldest son and, most times, his younger ones console me. Ayoola wanted to be a pastor but his life was cut short. I have accepted my faith. If not for the man who rescued him, we wouldn’t be going to the judicial panel again because it does not appear like we will get justice.”
#EndSARS protests
The #EndSARS protests were triggered by grievances arising from years of harassment and rights violations by operatives of the police’s Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
For weeks in Oct. 2020, many Nigerian youths took to the streets to protest extra-judicial killings and other irregularities by the police unit. The protests led to the disbandment of the police tactical squad.
In a desperate move to quell the demonstrations, which had continued despite the proscription of SARS, soldiers were deployed to the epicentre of the nationwide protests at Lekki Tollgate on Oct. 20, 2020.
Nigerian youth at Lekki toll gate, Lagos State, in Oct. 2020. Photo Credit: Pius Utomi Ekpei/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES.
They shot at protesters and killed a yet-to-be ascertained number. The demonstration was later hijacked by hoodlums who looted stores, homes, warehouses, as well as private and public properties in different parts of the country.
Many people including police officers were killed. Some sustained gunshot injuries and innocent Nigerians were arrested randomly.
Family of deceased live in penury
Otu Charles, a 64-year-old Ghanian was killed on Oct. 22, 2020. He was returning from work at Sawmill, along Agege, Lagos, when he was shot dead.
Earlier that day, facilities belonging to the Nigeria Police in Ojodu Berger area of the state, were razed during an attack by a group of hoodlums.
By evening, the destruction had led to a bloody confrontation between some police officers and hoodlums in the area. Immediately Otu alighted at Akinyode bus-stop, he heard sporadic gunshots.
“A stray bullet hit him when he was running for safety. This was after he ran into a fight between police and rioters around 7 p.m. Since then, his wife and three children have been living in pain,” Wiafe Charles, the deceased’s brother, told HumAngle.
Two months after Otu died, his family members were ejected from their residence in Akinyode following failure to meet up with their rent.
“It has not been easy for the family. After the incident, there was no money to pay for their rent at Akinyode and, two months later, they were evicted from the house. They are now squatting with a family-friend in Yaba.”
Wiafe is interested in helping the widow and children of his late brother but his earnings from his Baba Ijebu (lottery) business is not enough for him to feed even his own family.
Remembrance of sorrow
Isiaka Jimoh, a 20-year-old electrician, went to a site at the Under G area of Ogbomoso, Oyo State, on Oct. 10, 2020. Despite yielding to his mother’s advice not to take part in the #EndSARS protest at his community, he still did not return home alive.
Jimoh Isiaka minutes before he was killed at the Oyo protest.
The deceased’s mother, Ramota Jimoh, believed her son died because “he was predestined to die by gunshot.”
“I saw him a day before he died and warned him against joining the protest due to high-handedness by police operatives,” she said.
“Unfortunately, his father called me around noon on Saturday that I should meet him at Bowen University Teaching Hospital. He told me Isiaka was shot by police who were trying to disperse #EndSARS protesters.”
Speaking on life after Isiaka’s death, Ramota said, “I cannot forget Isiaka because he promised to take me to Mecca for pilgrimage and buy houses for me. Even with the little he was making before his death, he was already making thrift for me to start a petty business.”
Isiaka’s father, Raji Jimoh, told HumAngle police officers attached to the Owode Division were responsible for the death of his son. He said late Isiaka had two bullet wounds on his yellow shorts and his sweatshirt was recoloured by blood from blue to red. The protesters who witnessed the ugly incident took him to hospital but he didn’t survive it.
“He went to LAUTECH area to work but he could not even carry out his assignment there due to #EndSARS,” the deceased’s father remembered. “He was observing the protest from a distance but unfortunately got shot with two stray bullets at the junction.”
Raji told HumAngle, despite promises by top government officials, the family was yet to receive any support one year after the incident.
“Many people came to pay us condolence visits including top government officials like Governor Seyi Makinde, Minister of Sports, Sunday Dare, and Senator Fatai Buhari. They all promised to assist us but we didn’t get feedback. They set up a judicial panel and we were going to the panel before it ended in July. Till now, nothing has been heard. I cry every time I remember because Isiaka was so kind to me despite being the last-born.”
Widows of slain police officers want help
Like civilians, many police officers also lost their lives. One of them was Inspector Peter Abegunde. The police officer got a call from his Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in the early hours of Oct. 20, 2020. As a hard-working officer, he left his house around 6 a.m. for Ojo Police Station in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Aside from his police job, Peter was a final-year student of Conflict Studies at the University of Ibadan. “If not for death, he would have been a graduate by now,” his widow, Abiodun Abegunde, told HumAngle.
“He called me around 1 p.m. that the protest was getting bloody and instructed me to go pick the children up at school. By the time I was going to call him around 2 p.m., his phone was off.”
Abiodun was worried when her husband did not return home later that night. She could not sleep after she heard the news of the attack on Ojo police station by hoodlums who had already hijacked the protest.
Ojoo Police Station burnt during #EndSARS protest in Ibadan. Photo: Oyo Insight
“I left the house very early the next day to be sure my husband was not among those that got attacked. On getting to the police station, I saw the place burnt. I went to the police headquarters where I met many police wives that came to look for their husbands.
“The police spokesperson told us to go back home that our husbands will return soon, arguing that most of them ran for their lives when hoodlums attacked.”
By Oct. 22, Abiodun returned to the police headquarters alongside her husband’s family members. Unfortunately, they were briefed that Peter was one of the officers burnt when hoodlums set Ojoo police station ablaze.
The children told HumAngle that they missed their father. The widow said the federal government paid the family N500,000 as compensation a month after the incident but, since then, nothing has been heard about payment of the late inspector’s gratuity.
Abiodun Abegunde, widow of late Inspector Abegunde. Photo: Adejumo Kabir/HumAngle.
“I have four children to take care of and ensuring that they remain in school has been difficult. We later got money from Adebayo Adelabu and there’s a man that gives us N25,000 monthly for upkeep. I added all the money to my foodstuff business so that I can keep the children in school.”
Asked if she would allow any of her children to join the police force, she simply replied: “My husband was killed, his body was not found and here we are struggling for survival. I can’t allow any child.”
‘We are dying of hunger’
Like his colleague, Inspector Yusuf Alidu also left home very early on Oct. 20 to the same police station and never returned home. Few minutes before his death, the police officer called his wife, Esther Alidu, assuring her that he would look for ways to escape from the station.
“Immediately I heard about an attack on police officers by hoodlums, I called his phone and he responded that his station was under attack. He confirmed that he had removed his uniform but was still struggling to come out of the police station.”
Hours later, Esther called her husband’s phone again but it was switched off. She waited all day thinking her husband would return but that never happened.
“I told policemen close to him the next day that I was looking for my husband. One of the officers asked me to get in contact with his family members and I became suspicious. I asked them where he was but was told he was burnt in the police station by #EndSARS hoodlums.”
Esther, who got married to Yusuf in 2016, has two children. The oldest is a five-year-old girl and the second born is a two-year-old boy. The trio have since faced a lot of hardship.
“Life has been tough for me and my children because my husband did not allow me to work when he was alive. My children didn’t go to school throughout last week. I had to beg the school’s principal. I now eat once a day. I beg for garri and soup on a daily basis.”
Unlike the Abegunde family, the Alidus are yet to get any compensation from the federal government. “I have made efforts to get his gratuity by submitting all necessary requirements but it is yet to yield any result. The neighbours have tried but they also have their family members to cater for,” Esther said.
Gunshot survivors live in pain
Theophilus Ivwrogbo used to work as a truck driver at China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) in Apapa, Lagos. Following the announcement of curfew by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Oct. 20, 2020, all staff of the company were asked to go home.
As he lives in Epe, Theophilus would have to pass through the Lekki tollgate before getting to his house. He got to the tollgate at a time when soldiers already took over the event of the day. Like many others, Theophilus woke up at the hospital the next day after sustaining a gunshot injury.
“I got to the tollgate around 7 p.m. and that was when the soldiers just arrived, shooting sporadically at protesters. Since I couldn’t proceed, I started running backwards and the bullet hit my leg. A guy was trying to help me but he was shot dead.”
“I woke up the next day at Reddington Hospital. The place was filled with victims of gunshots and I stayed there till the next day. Some guys paid for x-rays and all other expenses before I was transferred to another hospital at VGC.”
Theophilus Ivwrogbo receiving treatment after a gunshot. Photo: Theophilus Ivwrogbo.
Theophilus told HumAngle that those taken to Grandville Medical Centre at VGC were treated without payment. “The hospital did so in solidarity with the youth’s agitation for a better Nigeria,” he explained.
“They operated my leg and helped join my broken bones with iron. I left the place after some days but was told to return in six weeks for a major operation on the leg.”
Life became terrible for Theophilus and his wife who started taking care of his two children with stipends from her “puff-puff” business. After six weeks, he was told that the surgery would cost him over N2 million.
Theophilus Ivwrogbo on a wheelchair and later at a trado-medical centre receiving treatment. Photo: Theophilus Ivwrogbo.
“I told them I don’t have money so they put POP. I later met the Take It Back movement in January. They donated N200,000 to go the traditional way. My kids have stopped going to school because there is no money. I feed on donations from friends.”
Another victim, Nicholas Anthony, was one of those picking litters at the tollgate throughout the period of the demonstration. He told HumAngle that he has on several occasions been a victim of police brutality as a driver in Lagos.
In solidarity with other youths, he abandoned his job to join the protests. Unfortunately, Nicholas was hit by a bullet on his chest when soldiers stormed the tollgate.
“It was God that saved me. The bullet that hit my chest shot out at my back. I woke up at Grandville Hospital where I was first diagnosed before I was taken to LASUTH. They fixed a pipe in my tummy to bring out the bad blood. Months after I was discharged, I cannot work. My wife and two children have been moved to Benue State while I remain in Lagos to attend the judicial panel. Even to attend the panel, I often beg for money.”
More terrible experiences
“All I am working towards now is to get my life going and try to figure out something I can do to earn some income and help home. I can’t stand or walk on my feet for long and I’ve lived on painkillers and calcium. The shattered bone was not replaced and it needs to grow itself,” Edwin Augustine, a 25-year-old gunshot victim, told HumAngle.
He had just finished his National Diploma programme in Office Technology and Management at Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana in Ebonyi State. He came to Lagos in search of placement for his Industrial Training (IT) but that became difficult due to #EndSARS protests rocking Nigeria’s commercial capital. After two days at Berger, his friends encouraged him to join the protests at Lekki tollgate, a development that did not end well.
“I was shot by soldiers on my left thigh on Oct. 20 and I woke up the next day at LASUTH. While I survived, my friend was shot dead. I was in LASUTH for two weeks but the bullet was not removed. The doctors said I would lose my leg if operated on.”
He told HumAngle that his father sold his only farm and house to ensure he stayed alive. Sadly, the bullet was not removed until April 9.
“I travelled to Ebonyi to operate the leg in April. This was after my father sold his properties and after some NGOs gave me N500,000. The leg is still giving issues especially when the weather is cold. I was at the judicial panel with a bullet for more than six months. My colleagues are in HND 1 now but I cannot join them,” he lamented.
Unlike others, Emma Chibroma was shot on his thigh at Berger on Oct. 28, 2020, during a confrontation between police and rioters. He told HumAngle he “was in pain for six weeks without getting assistance from anybody.”
“I went to Alausa to submit pictures but nothing came out of it. It was a terrible year for me. I don’t want to speak further on my bitter experience,” he added.
#EndSARS panels
After scrapping SARS, the federal government promised extensive police reforms, which many Nigerians believed it has yet to fulfil.
The National Executive Committee (NEC) headed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, with governors of the 36 states of the federation as well as some top federal government officials as members, also passed a resolution for the setting up of the panels of enquiry and recommended that state governments should set aside about N200 million as compensation for victims.
The panels were set up in 29 states and Abuja to investigate complaints regarding police brutality, recommend sanctions against erring officers, and award compensations to complainants in deserving situations to assuage their pains.
HumAngle understands that no fewer than 2,791 petitions have been submitted to the panels in the 29 states and Abuja.
Meanwhile, nine states did not set up the panel: Kano, Jigawa, Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Borno, and Yobe.
Osinbajo said in August through a statement issued by his media aide, Laolu Akande, that the panels of enquiry had finished their assignments in 28 states.
While the panels’ activities have been successful in some cases, victims are yet to get justice in most. HumAngle reported how 12 victims of police brutality were awarded a total of N68.3 million in six months by the Lagos State Judicial Panel.
In another development, Abayomi Adebayo, whose mother was killed by bullets from SARS operatives, was awarded N10 million as compensation and the family of the late Kolade Johnson who was killed by Nigeria police officers in 2019 also got N10 million compensation.
This is, however, not the case with many other panels. For instance, the Abuja Panel was abruptly suspended. A recent report by Premium Times explained how the federal government’s failure to fund the panel in Nigeria’s capital dashed the hopes of over 300 victims and relatives of victims of police brutality.
Some lawyers, however, believe that the judicial panel would only douse the situation in the country but not reform the police system. One of them, Festus Ogun, said in an earlier interview with HumAngle that “the panels appear to be a calculated strategy by the authorities to give false hope for victims of police gangsterism.”
“My position hinges on the fact that the law places the implementation of the findings of the panel at the discretion of the President who himself has a stained human rights record,” he argued.
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State had on July 9, 2021 received the report of the State’s Judicial Panel of Inquiry into complaints of police brutality and extra-judicial killings in the state with a promised to do its best to support families of victims of police brutality and extra-judicial killings in the state.
Chairman of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry, Justice Celestina Ogisi (retd.), when presented the panel’s report, disclosed that the Panel received 86 petitions and 49 were heard on merit while 37 were struck out for various reasons.
“In total, the Panel received 86 petitions and 49 were heard on merit while 37 were struck out for various reasons.
“The Panel also received 10 petitions which sought the enforcement of judgments of various High Courts of the State against the Police for acts of Police brutality and extra-judicial killings.
“The Panel recommended the payment of compensation to victims and/or their families for various acts of Police brutality and extra-judicial killings in Delta State.
“We also recommended the enforcement of all judgment debts awarded against the Police, which they have refused to obey till date,” Justice Ogisi stated.
Meanwhile, the State government said it has concluded the consideration of that particular report except for some few items that needed to carry out some investigations with a view to arriving at the right decision.
The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu stated that on October 14, 2021, the state EXCO continued consideration of the white paper of the findings of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry.
“The State Executive Council concluded the consideration of that particular report except for some few items that we have to carry out some investigations with a view to arriving at the right decision.
“Particularly some directives that will require the Attorney General to find out further details so that we don’t take decision in error.
“In all, we have gotten to the end of that consideration except those other few items we jumped because we needed further information before we can ratify or possibly approve the report of the Ju dicial Panel of Inquiry”
