Edo State government on Monday constituted a 12-man judicial panel of inquiry on police brutality and extra-judicial killings in the state.
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State government, Osarodion Ogie, and made available to journalists in Benin City, said the panel has 90 days to submit its reports.
Ogie who urged the people to send their complaints, petitions, and suggestions to the committee, added that all hearings would be open to the general public.
“The Edo State government fully ascribes to the ideals of the #EndSARS movement, which is driven by the desire for a new Nigeria, within which no man or woman is oppressed, and within which all can realise their true potentials,” he said.
He said the 12-man panel is “to receive complaints and petitions from the general public, particularly victims or relatives of victims of police brutality and extra-judicial killings, and to recommend measures, including compensation and restitution, investigation and prosecution, as the circumstances warrant.
“To advise on compensation or restitution to the victims, or where the victim has been killed, to the family of the victim, based on a condition which shall be clearly laid out by the Committee.
“To ensure that compensation is paid within 14 days of the decision to compensate”.
He further said that the panel would recommend and direct the Attorney General to immediately prosecute all persons responsible for the various crimes committed and recommend measures to prevent recurrences in the future and make any other recommendations to government in furtherance of the mandate of this Committee.
Ogie however, called on the Federal Government to quickly take urgent steps to strengthen the Nigeria Police Force and ensure that all personnel of the Police conduct themselves in a humane manner.
The panel is to be chaired by Justice Ada Ehigiamusoe while Joyce Ugbodaga will act as the secretary of the committee.
Other members of the Committee include Feb Idahosa, (Clergy); Francis Osayi, (ASUU); Osahon Obasuyi (NYC); Prest Aigbokhian (Civil Society); Uloaku Uzamere (NCWS); Pius Efofan (NANS); Pius Okpere (#EndSARS Movement); Kola Edokpayi (#EndSARS Movement); Mrs Felicia Monyei (Ministry of Justice) and a Representative of security forces.
