Edo Civil Society Organisations (EDOCSO) has commended the Edo State Ministry of Justice through the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP) for its legal opinion facilitating the release of over 100 individuals wrongly accused of cultism, murder, drugs and conspiracy.
The Assistant Secretary General, EDOCSO, Leftist Aliyu O. Umweni, said: “This development has further given credence to our earlier stance that many citizens arrested, extorted, and imprisoned by the police are innocent and they have now united with their families and associates.”
He stated that the police’s failure to conduct thorough investigations before charging suspects in court was unacceptable.
He further said: “It’s their responsibility to gather evidence and prove their cases beyond a reasonable doubt. We urge the Edo state police command to adhere to best international practices and respect citizens’ rights.
“Leaving the job of investigation to the court to do amounts to lazy and wicked policing, and at such it’s the responsibility of the police to thoroughly investigate crime before charging suspects to court. The importance of thorough investigation and intelligence gathering is crucial in ensuring justice is served.
“The police must gather sufficient evidence, interview witnesses, and consider alternative explanations before charging suspects in court. This approach helps prevent malicious prosecution and protects citizens from abuse of power. Edo Civil Society Organisations’ advocacy efforts have led to significant improvement in the state’s administration of the criminal justice system and Nigeria by extension. We will continue to work tirelessly to promote justice, peace, and development in Edo State.
“Edo Civil Society Organisations (EDOCSO) reiterates its commitment to justice, fighting cultism and supporting the state government’s efforts. We’ll continue to advocate for citizens’ rights and hold security agencies accountable.
“As an organisation, we believe in the importance of the rule of law, due process, respect for human rights, transparency and accountability in governance. The police play a critical role in maintaining law and order in society. However, their actions must be guided by professionalism, integrity, and respect for citizens’ rights.”
Umweni stated that EDOCSO urges the police to conduct a thorough investigation before charging suspects in court, Respect citizens’ rights and adhere to due process, refrain from extortion, intimidation, and unjust arrests and be transparent and accountable in their actions.
He further stated: “The Impact of wrongful arrests can have devastating effects for individuals and their families. They can lead to loss of livelihood, damage to reputation, and emotional trauma. Edo Civil Society Organisations (EDOCSO) urges the police to take responsibility for their actions and ensure that citizens are not subjected to abuse of power.
“The Ministry of Justice plays a critical role in ensuring that justice is served. We commend the Ministry of Justice and the Commissioner, Dr. Samson Osagie, for the release of wrongly accused individuals.
“This decision demonstrates the Ministry’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights. The ministry should, as a matter of urgency, constitute a case filtering mechanism for allegations of all capital offences through the DPP before they can be charged to court, charge amendment or otherwise.
“We thank the Ministry of Justice for their diligent work in ensuring justice is served. We also appreciate the trust and support of our members and the public.
Going forward, Edo Civil Society Organisations (EDOCSO) will continue to work with the state government and security agencies to promote justice, peace, and development in Edo State. We’ll monitor closely police adherence to best practices and advocate for citizens’ rights.
“The release of wrongly accused individuals is a significant step towards justice and accountability. EDOCSO urges the police to learn from this experience and improve their investigative processes. Together, we can build a safer and more just society for all.”
