The Independent Investigative panel on human rights violations against SARS and other units of the Nigerian Police has awarded 143 million naira to 20 victims and families of those who suffered different violations of their rights by officers and men of the defunct Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS)
The Panel led by its Chairman, Justice Suleiman Galadima (rtd) awarded the compensation as a means to temporarily assuage the loss of the victims and their families.
The panel since its inception in 2020, received 297 petitions across 29 states and the FCT.
144 of the cases have been wrapped up while compensation have been approved for 20 victims.
In all, 25 of the petitions were struck out, 12 of them withdrawn and 1 dismissed.
Also Read: Independent Investigative Panel Human Rights Violations against SARS compensate 20 victims
According to the secretary of the panel Hillary Ogbonna, more than 15O Nigerians are still contemplating whether or not to submit their petitions for hearing.
The panel gave compensations after a critical look at 7 cases bothering on extrajudicial killings, 5 on Illegal arrests and torture, another 5 on unlawful prolonged detention, and 3 on unlawful confiscation of properties.
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Those compensated are families of the “Apo 6”, Daniel Agori and Edward Dumisara, who were victims of extrajudicial killings amongst others.
The panel has assured the victims that the perpetrators will face justice, despite the compensation.
Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie
