A recent report revealed that Mr. Iyanda Alowonle was shot by the Osun State Anti-Kidnapping Unit while allegedly attempting to evade arrest. This incident resulted in his hospitalization at the Osun State Teaching Hospital.
While the Nigerian Police Force is empowered to arrest and prosecute offenders, there have been countless cases of these powers being abused by officers. Although the law permits the use of lethal force when a suspect resists arrest or attempts to escape, it’s crucial to emphasize that the *Right to Life*, enshrined in Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), is fundamental. The constitution states that no one should be deprived of life intentionally unless under a court-ordered execution for a criminal offense.
Questions surrounding Alowonle’s arrest and the gunshot injuries he sustained demand answers. A video shared on social media by one Prince Adesina shows Alowonle in handcuffs, visibly frightened and subdued, being interrogated in pidgin English by the police, with some officers translating it to Yoruba. How could a restrained and seemingly defenseless individual attempt to escape?
The claim that Alowonle was shot during a rescue attempt by his associates raises more questions than it answers. Why were there no reports of injuries or fatalities among the alleged rescuers? Why is the only injury recorded is that of Alowonle, who was already in police custody? It appears implausible that a "rescue attempt" would result in only the suspect being harmed while leaving the officers and alleged attackers unharmed.
Further questions emerge:
1. Why did the officers fail to use non-lethal means to subdue Alowonle, especially as he was already in handcuffs?
2. Could it be that the alleged rescue attempt was fabricated to justify the reckless shooting?
3. How many more citizens have suffered similar fates at the hands of this unit without public attention?
4. Why has Officer Moses not been held accountable for his history of alleged misconduct?
5. If this is how suspects are treated under police custody, how can the public trust the Force to uphold justice?
This incident is not an isolated one. Officer Moses, who led the operation, has a history of alleged misconduct and abuse of power. Instead of focusing on his mandate to combat kidnappers, he has been accused of using state resources to terrorize citizens. For instance, Moses reportedly orchestrated the frequent arrests of Hon. Adabanija Kamorudeen, a known loyalist of former governor Rauf Aregbesola.
Such actions undermine the ethical standards of policing and tarnish the image of the Nigerian Police Force. While there are commendable officers within the Force, individuals like Moses jeopardize public trust.
The Inspector General of Police must urgently intervene to investigate Officer Moses and ensure accountability for this alleged abuse of power. It is imperative for the integrity of the Force and the protection of citizens’ rights.
No comments:
Post a Comment