The Edo State chapter of the Nigerian Bar Association and the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Edo State chapter, has pledged to offer free services to victims of police brutality in the state.
Speaking during the panel’s inaugural sitting, the state NBA chairman, Pius Oiwoh, said the national president has directed that free legal services be given to victims of police brutality who might not be able to hire the services of a lawyer.
Oiwoh said aside rendering free services, they would also be part of the observers of the proceedings.
He commended the state government for setting up the committee pointing that it was the right step in the right direction.
Also, FIDA state chairperson, represented by its Public Relations Officer, Florence Okundaye, said the free legal services was to ensure that justice is served.
Earlier, the chairman of the 20-man panel, Justice Ada Ehigiamusoe (Rtd), urged victims to come forward with their petitions and concrete evidences with verifiable phone numbers and addresses.
According to him, the panel would follow the terms in ensuring justice for victims of police brutality.
She said the panel would also recommend measures of compensation, as well as suggest to Edo State government how to ensure that security agents no longer abuse the rights of citizens.
