Reps move to probe killing of hospital staff by Naval personnel
The House of Representatives is to investigate the circumstances leading to the death of one Onumegbu Richard Theanyi who was allegedly beaten to death by officials of the Nigerian Navy.
In addition to its investigation, the House wants the authorities of the Nigerian Navy to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the events leading to Onumaegbu’s death, with a focus on identifying all individuals involved and holding them accountable under the law.
Adopting a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Ginger Obinna Onwusibe (LP, Abia), the House spoke of the need for the Nigerian Navy to implement measures to prevent similar incidents of torture and abuse within the Nigerian Navy, including enhanced training on human rights and adherence to legal protocols.
They also want adequate support and compensation to be paid to the family of the deceased, acknowledging the irreparable loss they have suffered.
Hon Onwusibe had told the House that the late Onumegbu Richard Theanyi worked with the Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital in Ojo Lagos for 15 years before his death.
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He said: “On the fateful night of March 26th Onumaegbu was subjected to brutal torture for a horrifying duration of 5 hours, from 8 pm to 1 am, by five naval officers reportedly summoned by an aggrieved lady who had issues with the deceased.
“This barbaric act not only robbed, Onumaegbu of his life but also tarnished the reputation of the Nigerian Navy and violated fundamental human rights.”
He said: “Measures are needed to forestall the possible breakdown of law and order by aggrieved youths protesting the tragic and untimely death of their colleague and brother whose life was cut down at its prime, realizing that this is the second time my constituent is being killed unconditionally by the Nigerian Navy in the past three months.”
He said the circumstances surrounding Mr. Onumaezbu’s death demand immediate attention and justice, adding that it is therefore incumbent upon this honourable assembly to take decisive action to ensure justice, and accountability, prevent further atrocities, and uphold the rule of law.
Also, the House asked the inspector General of Police (IGP), Chief of Army Staff (COAS) director general of the Department of State Security (DSS), and National Security Adviser (NSA) to deploy more Security Personnel to Uzo-Uwani LGA and Gwantu in Kaduna state for increased Security Surveillance and support to forestall further loss of lives in the areas.
This followed two separate motions of urgent kidnapping in Nimbo, Opanda and Ogboli communities of Enugu state and an attack by unknown gunmen in Ambe community in Sanga local government of Kaduna state-sponsored.
