IGP orders ‘speedy’ probe as police detain 3 officers over killing of Lagos lawyer

Usman Baba, the inspector-general of police, has condemned the killing of Bolanle Raheem, a female lawyer, by a police officer attached to the Ajiwe police station, Ajah, Lagos state.

Baba also ordered a speedy investigation and prosecution of the officer involved in the incident.

The shooting occurred when the deceased and her family were returning from Christmas service on Sunday.

The incident has sparked widespread criticism of the Nigeria Police Force on social media.

Reacting in a statement signed by Muyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, the IGP described the incident as “unfortunate and sad”.

The inspector-general of police commiserated with the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased.

Baba said the police force will not condone the “inappropriate” incident.

“The IGP, who described the incident as unfortunate and sad, has ordered speedy investigation and prosecution of the officers responsible for the ugly and unprofessional act, which doesn’t portray the Nigeria police standard operating procedure and core values,” the statement reads.

“In the same vein, the IGP commiserates with the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased as he prays for the repose of her soul.

“He further assures the general public of justice in the case while he warns officers and men of the force to be professional and people-oriented in the discharge of their duties and operate within the ambit of the law, as the force’s leadership will not condone any inappropriate or unprofessional acts.”

Earlier on Monday, Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson of the Lagos police command said three officers have been taken into custody over the incident.

In another statement, Hundeyin said the case has been transferred to the criminal investigation department of the Lagos police command for “in-depth investigation”.

“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Abiodun Alabi, fdc has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Barrister Bolanle Raheem who was shot dead by a police officer in Ajah on Sunday, December 25, 2022,” the statement reads.

“On the instruction of the Commissioner of Police, the errant officer has since been taken into custody alongside his team members.

“The CP has equally directed that the case be transferred to the Lagos State Police Command State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba for in-depth investigation.

“This has become one too many, especially bearing in mind that a similar incident occurred at the same location less than three weeks ago. The condemnable incident is against the standard operating procedures (SOP) and rules of engagement of the Force, and to say the least, is embarrassing.

“Beyond this incident, the Nigeria Police Force will carry out a reappraisal of its rules of engagement in a bid to put an end to such avoidable ugly incidents.
Lagos State Police Command.

“The Lagos State Police Command hereby appeals to the good people and residents of Lagos State to remain calm as the Command is already in constant touch with the Nigerian Bar Association and other relevant stakeholders towards ensuring that justice totally prevails.”