The Plateau State Judicial Panel of Inquiry Set up by the Executive Governor of Plateau State and headed by Justice Philomina Lot (Rtr) to investigate complaints of Police brutality & related extra-judicial killings in the State commenced its sitting today at the Azi Nyako Youth Centre Jos.

It will be recalled that there has been Nationwide Protest and public outcry for the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad Unit of the Police Force.

Chairman of the Panel, Justice Philomina Lot (Rtd) has assured the public of fairness as they carry out the task assigned to them by the Plateau State Government. Justice Philomina urged Members of the public who have complaints of police brutality and other extra-judicial killings to make their submissions to the panel as it commences its assignment.

Speaking on behalf of Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Chief Garba Pwul SAN said the prompt response of the President and his call for the immediate setting up of judicial panel of inquiry across the Nation to investigate Police Brutality, extra-judicial killings and other forms of human rights abuse underscores his concern for security of lives and property as well as his love for the youths. He said the panel is made up of persons of proven integrity and character who will perform the assignment given to them creditably well. Chief Pwul posited that he is optimistic issues to be forwarded to the panel will be addressed and recommendations implemented.

He said a case of brutality and extra-judicial killing involving Mr. Rinji Bala Peter, an Undergraduate of University of Jos was recorded in the State this year.

Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Plateau State Chapter, said justice should be done on all the petitions to be presented and said it has resolved to give free pro bono services to the public.

The National Human Rights Commission appreciated FG for setting up the panel to ensure justice is served for victims of brutality and human rights abuse.

Representative of the Plateau State Police Commissioner said the Police Force will continue to play its role of maintaining law & order as well as protecting lives and property of the citizens. He urged the panels to be fair and make recommendations that are corrective which will bring about the much needed improvements and greater reformation in the Force.

Plateau State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Barr. Chrysantus Ahmad of Justice said there are cases of human rights violation among some personnel of the Police Force and victims should be seen getting justice while erring officers are punished according to the law of the land. He said their is need for Police reforms to help the personnel perform optimally well and make the Nation better, safer and more secured.

He said the importance of the Police to the Nation cannot be overemphasized though there is need for the personnel to carry out their duties with diligence, professionalism considering fundamental human rights and in line with the Country’s Constitution.

He also said there is for institutional reforms and not allow warlords and those who are bent on throwing the Nation into anarchy have their obnoxious ways.

Barr. Chrysantus posited that the Federal Government & State Govt have laudable social security interventions for the youths as they are the owners of the future. He said there is need to put critical infrastructures needed by industries to thrive in place to create employment opportunities.

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ENDSARS: Plateau Judicial Panel Holds Inaugural Sitting, Assures of Fairness