From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna
Niger State Governor Abubakar Sani Bello has inaugurated the Judicial Panel of Inquiry on Police brutality, abuse of human rights and other unwholesome as well as extra judicial acts particularly by the disbanded Special Anti -Robbery Squad (SARS).
However, the panel is mandated to ascertain and receive complaints from any person or groups within the State with a view to delivering justice for all victims.
The governor inaugurated panel at the Government House in Minna, following the recommendation of the National Economic Council (NEC) to set up judicial Panels of Inquiry by all the State Governors to hear complaints and ensure accountability in the operations of police units in their States.
Consequently, the terms of reference include: to investigate any complaints of Police brutality, abuse of Human Rights and other extra judicial acts by the disbanded SARS; to determine the nature of the acts of brutality, and level of violation of Human Rights committed by the dissolved squad.
The Panel is also to; make recommendations on positive reforms to be taken and policies to be developed and implemented to ensure that acts that may have led to violations are prevented in future among others.
The Governor however said he may amend the terms of reference at anytime as it might be published in the State Gazette.
The team is expected to submit its report in one month time but subject to review.
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