The Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos Branch, stated on Thursday that it would be following the prosecution of the police officer who reportedly shot dead a female lawyer, Mrs Omobolanle Raheem.
Raheem was reportedly shot dead in Lagos on Dec. 25, while on Christmas outing with her family.
ASP Drambi Vandi, assigned to the Ajiwe Police Division in Ajah, Lagos State, is accused of the murder.
Mr Ebun Olu-Adegboruwa (SAN) said in a press statement on Thursday that he would lead a team of NBA lawyers who would work with the Lagos State Ministry of Justice to prosecute the police officer.
“Nigerians woke up to the shock of the death of Mrs Raheem who was shot in the Ajah area of Lagos inside her car on her way back from an outing with her family.
“The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos Branch to which Mrs Raheem belongs, Mr Ikechukwu Uwana, contacted Mr Adegboruwa to lead the team of lawyers for the NBA that will monitor the trial of the cop.
“The NBA, Lagos, in conjunction with the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mr Y.C. Mikyau, (SAN), has decided to be part of the prosecution of the policeman as part of efforts toward securing quick and effective justice for the family of the deceased.
“In this regard, the NBA will be partnering with the Ministry of Justice during the trial; Mr Adegboruwa has, in turn, obtained relevant briefing from the attorney-general of Lagos State and has secured the assurances of an accelerated prosecution once the case file is received from the police.
“The NBA is also seeking monetary compensation for the family of Mrs Raheem from the government of Lagos State, the Federal Government and indeed the Nigerian Police Force and the Police Service Commission, through its Human Rights Committee,” he said.
He further stated that the NBA would seek compensation for damages of not less than five billion naira.
All police officers and men should receive reorientation on how to handle and utilise guns, Adegboruwa said.
He also demanded that men in law enforcement receive instruction on the fundamentals of upholding and observing human rights.
Adegboruwa also called for an upgraded welfare package for all police officers in terms of pay, working conditions, and housing.
He also promoted the hiring of more police officers and men in order to ease the strain on the current workforce and ensure effective policing.
