A human rights and pro-democracy group, Take It Back Movement has commended Nigeria Police Force for the dismissal and order for the trial of Kabiru Odeyemi, who killed a 24-year-old generator technician, Idris Bakare, in Lagos State.
The Lagos State Police Command, on Wednesday, confirmed the dismissal of Odeyemi who was linked to the shooting of the technician.
The command's spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the development in a post on Twitter.
He wrote, “The recommendation for the dismissal of Inspector Kabiru Odeyemi was approved today. This paves the way for his arraignment which will take place on Friday, July 7, 2023.
“The Commissioner of Police, Idowu Owohunwa, assures Lagosians of his unwavering determination to police the state within the dictates of the rule of law, civility and respect for human life.”
SaharaReporters had reported that Bakare was hit by a policeman’s bullet while returning to his house on No 4, Baale Street, Oregun, in the Ikeja area of the state. He subsequently died at a clinic in the state.
It was learnt that some people were fighting on Oregun Road when Odeyemi alongside some policemen stormed the scene.
In the process, Odeyemi reportedly shot Bakare, who succumbed to the injuries he sustained during the attack.
Reacting to the dismissal of the cop, the Lagos State chapter of Take It Back Movement, Nigeria, in a statement signed by its Coordinator, Adekunle Adeyemi Taofeek, said it was a welcome development but insisted on full compensation for the family of the deceased man.
The statement partly read: "We commend the dismissal and subsequent order for the trial of killer cop, Kabiru Odeyemi who murdered a 24-year-old Idris Bakare in Oregun, Ikeja area of Lagos State.
"Recall that the Movement in an earlier statement dated 30th of May, 2023 had called the attention of the public, and the police to the tragic incident, demanding the arrest, dismissal and prosecution of the killer cop.
"We acknowledge the disciplinary steps taken by the Nigerian police and also appreciate the general public for following up on the case to ensure transparency and accountability.
"While we insist on full compensation of the deceased family, we have also instructed our team of lawyers to follow up closely with the trial which commences today, 7th of July, 2023, in order to ensure swift delivery of justice to the family of the deceased.
"We once again extend our condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased; may you have the fortitude to bear the loss."