#EndSARS: Ekiti awards N7.4m to victims of police brutality

The Ekiti government has presented a total of N7.4 million to victims of police brutality in the state.

In October 2020, many Nigerians took to the streets in many parts of the country to protest against police brutality, while calling for the disbandment of the now defunct special anti-robbery squad (SARS).

In line with a presidential directive following the #EndSARS protests, Ekiti — like other states — had set up a judicial panel to probe police brutality and other related human rights violations.

According to NAN, the state government presented cheques of various sums totalling N7.4 million to the first batch of petitioners, following the recommendations of the Cornelius Akintayo-led judicial panel.

During the presentation on Monday, Kayode Fayemi, governor of the state, apologised to the victims of police brutality for the hurt and negative psychological effects of their experiences.

Fayemi noted that his administration will ensure that residents of the state have access to “service-oriented” courts, to ensure speedy administration of justice.

“My administration recognises that enforcing the rights of victims requires efficient institutions without which our laws and policies may not be sustainable. The judiciary and the ministry of justice are important institutions in this regard,” Fayemi said.

“May I once again formally apologise to all the victims of human rights violations as recognised by the judicial panel, for the hurt they experienced and the loss suffered.

“It is my hope that this monetary compensation will contribute to repairing your financial loss and other psychological and physical injuries that you may have suffered. Please accept my very best wishes.”