CSOs Demand Police Transparency In Abuja Killings
Two civil society organisations, the Asabe Waziri Justice Advocacy Initiative (AWJAI) and the Citizens’ Gavel Foundation for Social Justice (GAVEL), have petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to provide an official update on the investigation into the alleged killings by Inspector Wilson Collins.
The petition follows a tragic incident in Abuja on 26 August 2024, where Collins allegedly shot and killed two individuals, while fatally injuring a third.
‘The organisations are calling for transparency, accountability, and swift action from the police.
In their petition, the organisations highlighted concerns over the lack of response from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) despite public outcry.
They claimed that over four months have passed since the incident, but the NPF has yet to release any official statements or provide updates on the investigation.
The CSOs added that this silence has raised significant questions, fuelling fears that the absence of accountability will undermine public trust in law enforcement.
According to media reports, the incident unfolded when Esther, Collins’ girlfriend, allegedly stole a phone from a tricycle driver. When the phone rang in her possession, a confrontation ensued.
Collins reportedly responded by arriving at the scene armed and opening fire, killing the tricycle driver and a bystander. Additionally, a motorcyclist who had transported him to the scene was critically injured and later died due to inadequate medical care during a doctors’ strike.
The petitioners called for specific information, including details on any investigation or disciplinary action taken against Collins, access to internal police reports related to the incident, and a copy of the investigation report.
A statement was issued on behalf of GAVEL and AWJAI, signed by Marvellous Monday, Legal Associate at Citizens’ Gavel.
The document read in part, “Despite the gravity of the allegations and public outcry, the Nigeria Police Force has not made any public statements or provided updates on the investigation over four months later.
“GAVEL and AWJAI invoked Section 1(1) of the Freedom of Information Act to request detailed information on any investigation or disciplinary action taken against Inspector Collins, access to internal reports or records related to the incident, a copy of the police investigation report, and information on measures to ensure accountability and justice in this case.
“We reiterate our commitment to ensuring that justice is served and call on the IGP to address this pressing matter promptly. The victims’ families and the public deserve accountability and transparency.”