Survivors of police brutality and extra-judicial killings in Abia State are speaking out after being left without
compensation. The group, which includes victims and families of those affected, petitioned Governor Alex Otti, pleading for the immediate release of N511 million in compensation approved by the Abia State Judicial Panel of Inquiry.
The panel, set up in response to the 2020 #EndSARS nationwide protests, investigated complaints of police abuse and recommended compensation for victims. Despite the panel’s findings and recommendations, the Abia State government has yet to release the funds.
The victims are frustrated, noting that other states, including Lagos, FCT, Osun, Ekiti, and Rivers, have already paid compensation to victims identified by their judicial panels. Many of the victims are struggling, with some homeless, ill, or deceased, and families unable to afford burial expenses.
Governor Otti is being urged to intervene and ensure the compensation is paid, with the victims describing him as their “last hope