Gombe EndSARs panel completes sitting
Chima Azubuike, Gombe
Gombe State Commission of Inquiry into human rights violation by disbanded Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) and other Nigeria Police force unit/ Security Agencies within the state has completed their assignment.
According to the State Director of Public Prosecution, Mohammed Kumo, who served as the Secretary, this is so following the exhaustion of petitions filed.
“The next is to sit and make deliberations on the five cases on merit so that we conclude and make our report to the State Government. We received complaints against police, civil defence and Army. Until we write our reports then you will know our recommendations,” Kumo said.
While commending the support garnered so far from various quarters in the completion of the inquiry, he added, “The supports have been tremendous from respondents especially the police because they have given us cover in the entire sittings of the Commission. We are also grateful to the media.”
The panel commenced sitting on 3rd December, 2020. The committee had sat 7 times in January, 8 times in February.
Our correspondent had reported that out of 15 cases filed by victims of police other security agency’s brutality, 3 were said to had led to the death of victims, as many were struck out for transpiring outside the scope of 2019.
Counsel to the Commission, Caleb Ubale said the defunct Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS), had positive side, adding that complaints came from those who felt their rights were compromised.
He added that residents must be law abiding as the Commission submits the findings.
He said, “We are in a situation where people are now aware about their right and they are protecting the rights very jealously. The SARS had it positive aspects when it was set up. However, the way some officers went about their duties have caused harm to the individuals who felt they should complain to the Commission. People must be law abiding in conducting their activities, respect each others rights and liberties.”
