The Independent Investigative Panel on human rights violations of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and other police units, sitting in Abuja, on Monday has charged the police to “either cross-examine petitioner or forego that right and get ready for defence”.
Dr Garba Tetengi SAN, who stood in for the Chairman gave this directive , when Counsel to the Police respondents, Malik Taiwo stated that the counsel assigned to the petition on alleged violation of rights to life, human dignity and persanal liberty, was unavoidably absent, and he Taiwo was not familiar with the petition so he could not cross-examine the petitioner.
Garba Tetengi however rejected the unserious excuse by the police and countered that the panel views the police institution as one entity and ordered them to stop bulk passing in the presence of the panel.
It will be recalled at the first hearing on 15th February 2021, Stephen Udeogu narrated to the panel how SARS operatives laid siege at his family house and he was shot at his waist. His brother, Lawrence Udeogu who was later taken away by men of SARS, allegedly died in their custody following torture that was meted out on him.
The petitioner, Stephen Udeogu who appeared before the panel for cross examination by the police on alleged gross violation of his fundamental rights by SARS operatives stated that so far he has spent 48,000,000 in surgery and other hospital expenses, though some of the monies came from donations, he still needed money for major surgery abroad. He lamented that he suffers excruciating pain as he carries metal in his body.
The case was adjourned to 14th April 2021 for defence.
Similarly, the petition of one Anthony Obioha could not be heard due to the absence of the petitioner and his Counsel Anthony Chukwurah for the second time.
On enquiry via phone call, the Counsel apologised for wasting the time of the panel and stated that the petitioner is indisposed due to chronic eye problem. The matter has been adjourned pending the recovery of the petitioner..
