Yemisi Izuora
The Network on Police Reform in Nigeria (NOPRIN Foundation), has expressed concern over spate of killings by security agencies deployed to enforce lockdown in various states.
NOPRIN said it is saddened at the state of the nation, series of videos of Task Force, Police officers destroying goods of traders, torturing people, killing citizens following government directives that people should stay indoor due to Covid-19.
The Organization is baffled at this extreme display of inhumane treatment by officers of the law who is supposed to be ‘’our friend’’ stressing that they must understand that the security of lives is key, which to some extent lightens the gravity of their actions, but properties must also be greatly considered, more so that these properties belong to the citizens that are to be protected.
“We understand their willingness to protect lives but to the extent of destroying goods worth over hundreds of thousands at such a dire time would be described as extreme and inconsiderate.
Torturing of citizens, making videos of ‘teaching people lesson’ and actually killing citizens!, violates Nigerian laws.”‘it said in a statement.
Some of the laws include, Anti-torture Act, 2017, which stipulates duty of government to fully adhere to the principles and standards on the absolute condemnation and prohibition of torture set by the Constitution of the Federal republic of Nigeria and various international instruments to which Nigeria is a State party (Act No. 23 1999)
Also, the VAPP Law 2015 under Section 2 (1):, says that a person who willfully causes or inflicts physical injury on another by means of any weapon, substance or object and Section 4: A person who willfully or knowingly places a person in fear of physical injury commits an offence as well as Section 11: A person who causes mischief or destruction or damage to property of another with intent to cause or knowing that it is likely to cause distress or annoyance to the victim.
Again, ACJA 2015 Section 1: explains that the purpose of this act is to ensure that the system of administration of criminal justice in Nigeria promotes efficient management of criminal justice institutions, speedy dispensation of justice, protection of the society from crime and protection of the rights and interest of the suspect, the defendant and the victim
Furthermore NPF Act, (Function) offers more explanation under Section 4: Prevention and detection of crime, apprehension of offenders, preservation of law and order, protection of life and property, enforcement of all laws and regulation
Again , the Nigerian 1999 Constitution Section 33 (1), says Every person has right to life and no one shall be deprived intentionally of his life, except in execution of the sentence of a court in respect of a criminal offence of which he has been found guilty in Nigeria
NOPRIN Foundation therefore, called on the President, Muhammadu Buhari, the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, the Chairman of the Task force and SGF, Mr. Boss Mustapha to look into the matter and intervene in this violent killings happening in the country especially in Delta State by people who should be protecting lives.
“All those involved in these crimes should immediately be made to face the full wrath of the law irrespective of the party involved, Nobody is above the law and nobody should be more equal than others. Nigerian lives matter!
“We use this medium to call on both the state and federal government to make available relief fund and services to households & individuals during this period of the Covid-19, put certain measures on ground to cushion the outcome of the implementation.
“We also call on citizens of Nigerians to cooperate with the government and relevant authorities during this period. Let us not allow this period cause us more damage because Life continues after this and all Nigerians should play their part to ensure safety of lives and property. This situation should unite us and not tear us apart even in the midst catastrophe and chaos.” said the organization.
