Edo State Government has set up a Judicial Panel of Inquiry into circumstances surrounding the #EndSARS protests in Edo State.
The Secretary to the state government, Osarodion Ogie made this announcement in a statement on Monday
He said the panel is set up, in response to the yearnings of Nigerian youths, as articulated in the demands of the #EndSars protesters.
The panel is expected 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.
Also it will advise on compensation or restitution to the victims, or- where the victim has been killed- to the family of the victim, based on condition which shall be clearly laid out by the Committee.
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Other terms of reference ob the panel include to ensure that compensation is paid within 14 days of the decision to compensate,and to recommend and direct the Attorney General to immediately prosecute all persons responsible for the various crimes committed.
The panel will also recommend measures to forestall reoccurrences in the future.
The Panel has been given 90 days to complete this assignment. All hearings will be open to the general public.
All interested persons are advised to send their complaints, petitions and suggestions to the Committee.
While noting that Edo State government fully ascribes to the ideals of the #EndSARS movement, which is driven by the desire for a new Nigeria, the statement further call on the federal government to speedily intervene and take immediate and concrete measures to strengthen the Nigerian Police Force, and ensure that all officers and men conduct themselves in a humane and efficient manner, in alignment with international best practices.
The 12 members panel of Inquiry has Hon Justice Ada Ehigiamusoe as the Chairperson and Mrs Joyce Ugbodaga as the Secretary to the panel.
Other members are; Bishop Feb Idahosa representing Clergy, Francis Osayi representative of ASUU,Comrade Osahon Obasuyi (NYC);Prest Aigbokhian (Civil Society);Mrs Uloaku Uzamere (NCWS):Comrade Pius Efofan (NANS);Pius Okpere and Comrade Kola Edokpayi representative of #EndSARS Movement ,Mrs Felicia Monyei (Ministry of Justice) and Representatives of security forces.
