The Bayelsa State Government has established a six-member judicial panel of inquiry to address the ongoing crisis in Opu-Nembe (Nembe Basambiri) within the Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. This unrest resulted in the tragic loss of three lives on February 15 of this year.
In accordance with a resolution passed by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, the panel will be led by retired Justice Margaret Akpomiemie, a former Chief Judge of the state. Assisting her will be Mr. Diepreye Omubo, a representative from the Ministry of Justice, who will serve as the Secretary.
The other members of the panel include Chief Fedude Zimughan, Dr. (Mrs.) Josephine Igodo, Lady Love Amaseimogha, and Mr. Vining Nunman Goselle, a representative from the National Human Rights Commission, Bayelsa Office.
During the inauguration of the panel at the Government House in Yenagoa, Governor Douye Diri emphasized that their mandate is to thoroughly investigate the underlying factors, both remote and immediate, that led to the disturbances in Nembe-Basambiri and the subsequent fatalities on February 15.
The Governor, represented by Deputy Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, expressed his confidence in the selected panel members, believing they possess the capability to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
Governor Diri underscored that this decision was made to foster enduring peace and security within the community while ensuring justice for those who have suffered losses. He noted that families of the deceased individuals have communicated with the Inspector-General of Police about the incidents but have received no satisfactory response.
The Governor asserted, “Our priority is to uncover the circumstances of these deaths and identify those accountable. We hold every life in high regard, and as responsible governance, we are determined to address the loss of three young lives.”
In her address, Retired Justice Margaret Akpomiemie, the Chair of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry, highlighted the significance of treating matters involving human lives with utmost caution, considering the possibility of capital punishment. She thanked the Governor for selecting qualified and like-minded individuals for this task.
Justice Akpomiemie emphasized that the panel would rely on credible evidence provided through public memoranda to establish the true reasons behind the fatal incidents. She encouraged the Opu Nembe Community members and other stakeholders to contribute their insights through memoranda, assuring fairness, diligence, and objectivity in the panel’s proceedings.
The panel has been granted a three-week timeframe to conclude its investigations and submit a comprehensive report of its findings to the government for appropriate action.
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