Ondo state sets up panel of inquiry to investigate reports of SARS brutality in the state
The Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, has approved the constitution of a Judicial Panel of Inquiry to look into all complaints by members of the public on alleged illegal activities of officers of Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State.
A statement released by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Donald Ojogo, states that the panel is made up of
i. Hon. Justice Salisu Adesola Sidiq (Rtd)
Rtd. High Court Judge – Chairperson
ii. Mrs. Banke Oloba
Representative of Civil Society Groups – Member
iii. Ifeanyi Odili
Representative of Civil Society Group – Member
iv. Mr. Samuel Adetuyi
Rtd. Commissioner of Police – Member
v. Mr. Oluyemi Fasipe
Youth Representative – Member
vi. Mr. Leo Ologun
Representative of the office of the state Attorney-General – Member
vii. Sunday Oyewole
Representative from the National Human Rights Commission – Member
viii. Mr. Lanre Amuda – Secretary
Ojogo stated that the Terms of Reference of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry is as follows;i. to receive and investigate complaints of police brutality or related extra- judicial killings by the police in Ondo State;
ii. to evaluate evidence and draw conclusion on validity of complains
iii. to recommend compensation and other remedial measures; and
iv. to carry out any other assignment that may be deemed necessary pursuant to this purpose.
The Judicial Panel of Inquiry has six months to conclude its assignment and submit its report.
He said the members of the Panel of Inquiry will be inaugurated on Tuesday October 20.