The Delta state government on Tuesday says it will pay the total of N102,450,000.00 as incidental claims to victims of police brutality and human rights violations in the state.
This follows agitations over the delay in implementing the Judicial Panel of Enquiry report set up in the wake of the #EndSARS protests of 2020.
Disclosing this in a statement, Secretary to the State Government, Mr Patrick Ukah, said the state government approved the compensation, having looked into the panel’s report by the government.
“The state government, having considered the panel’s recommendations in these two categories of cases, has accepted to pay the incidental claims recommended for the victims, amounting to N102,450,000.00. This payment would be effected in due course.”
He said the panel confirmed acts of police brutality on investigations conducted, hence, the award of monetary compensation.
Ukah noted that the government also approved the institution of a seven-man committee to oversee the protection of the rights of citizens.
He added that the committee would be chaired by the Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, in the capacity of chairman.
The secretary said the committee would ensure that the fundamental human rights of citizens are respected and protected by security operatives in the line of duty.
Members of the instituted Human Rights Public Complaints Committee include Attorney General & Commissioner of Justice; Commissioner of youths; Commissioner of Police; Representatives of Nigeria Bar Association; and National Human Right Commission; Functioning Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary.
