The Lagos State governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu has on Monday, October 19 inaugurated an 8-man judicial panel of inquiry as part of efforts to end police brutality, by virtue of Section 5 of Tribunals of Inquiry Law, Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
According to the governor, the newly inaugurated Panel of Inquiry and Restitution will receive and investigate complaints of police brutality in Lagos adding that the state has witnessed the protests of youths against police brutality.
He noted that the pain of the protesters has been felt in various parts of the country, as well as in the diaspora, all speaking with one voice against the unbridled violation of their rights and lives.
Sanwo-Olu, who further stated that he understood the plight of the protesters described their concerns as legitimate as he, however, reiterated that while his administration was able to immediately address some of the protester’s demands, some will require time.
Earlier, the governor had opined that the setting up of the Judicial Panel is a very important step in the journey to reforming the Police. He urged all citizens of Lagos to partner with his administration as he further appreciated and recognized the efforts of the youths which according to him has made the necessary change inevitable.
He said the Judicial panel shall have powers to make recommendations to Government on how to ensure that the Police and all security agencies never abuse the rights of citizens again.
Also, the Panel has the powers to compel and summon witnesses to appear before it as the State Government expects the Panel to use these powers to ensure that all necessary parties appear before it to testify.
