A human rights activist in Delta State has sent a petition to the Inspector General of Police, raising concerns about alleged cases of police brutality in the state. The petition, also sent to other relevant authorities, highlights incidents of misconduct resulting in loss of life and injuries to citizens.
The activist, Victor Ojei, emphasized the need for urgent action to address the troubling pattern of police misconduct. Specific incidents, including the shooting of a 17-year-old boy, a Nollywood cameraman, and the suspicious death of a young man, were outlined in the petition.
Ojei pointed out that these actions go against Police Force Order 237, which stresses the use of firearms as a last resort. He called for thorough investigations into the incidents and urged for accountability and prosecution of officers found guilty of wrongdoing.
Referencing the constitutional right to life, Ojei stressed the importance of using force only when necessary and proportionate. He recommended mandatory retraining for officers to prioritize non-lethal methods and underscored the need for transparent reporting mechanisms for police misconduct.
The activist emphasized the significance of community-police relations in effective policing and called on the Nigeria Police Force to act promptly to restore public trust by addressing these incidents and ensuring accountability.