Anambra State Investigative Panel of Inquiry into the Allegations of Extra Judicial Killings against Defunct SARS and Police Brutality has commenced public hearing on complaints by members of the public.
Governor Willie Obiano had inaugurated the Panel, with representatives from the church, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Civil Society Organisations, the Judiciary, among others as members, with Retired Justice Veronica Umeh as the Chairman.
While entertaining some of the complaints, Retired Justice Umeh noted that the terms of reference of the panel is to evaluate evidences presented and other surrounding circumstances and draw conclusions regarding the validity of the complaints, as well as recommend appropriate sanctions and proffer solutions, among other functions.
While calling for appearance of the Legal Department of the Nigerian Police Force, Justice Umeh advised complainants, including Messrs Onyechi Ngene, Nestor Ngozichukwuka, to approach NBA’s Help Desks in the state to articulate their complaints and prayers.
Another complainant, Mrs. Chidimma Edoziuno, whose husband, Chidozie, was allegedly killed extra judicially by the defunct SARS in 2017, prayed the Panel to order for immediate release of her husband’s corpse, pay her and other dependants of the deceased a reasonable compensation, since they cannot restore his life.
The Panel’s sitting was adjourned till Tuesday next week for further hearing.