The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba has condemned the shooting and killing of Mrs Omobolanle Raheem, a female lawyer who was allegedly shot and killed by a policeman attached to Ajiwe Police Station, Ajah, Lagos State.
The cop is said to be of a rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police, and the incident occurred on Sunday Christmas Day.
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.
The act he said, “doesn’t portray the Nigeria Police Standard Operating Procedure and core values.”
Baba 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.
In the same vein, Lagos Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alabi, has equally expressed heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late lawyer.
Lagos Police Public Relations Officer SP Benjamin Hundeyin in a statement on Monday confirmed that 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 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,” the statement further indicated.
