Piqued by the controversy trailing the killing of nine innocent squatters but tagged ‘Boko Haram’ members by security agencies the Senate on Tuesday ordered a thorough investigation into the matter.
Consequently, the Upper Chamber has directed its committees on National Security and Intelligence and Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters to carry out the investigation.
It will be recalled that in the early hours of September 20, gunmen in military uniform stormed an uncompleted building behind Apo legislative quarters to dislodge those squatting in the building but in the process shot nine of them to death.
There has been public outcry over the killing while many prominent Nigerians including human rights groups have also called for independent investigation.
The Senate’s decision to probe the ugly incident was sequel to debate on a motion sponsored by Sahabi Ya’u (PDP-Zamfara) entitled; “Apo killings; a case of extra judicial killing”.
“The Senate notes with dismay the shootings in an uncompleted building on Soji Aderemi close, Bamanga Tukur street of Apo Legislators quarters on September 20,” Ya’u said while leading debate on the matter..
While contributing to the debate, Clever Ikisikpo (PDP-Bayelsa) recalled what happened that day, “We could not sleep that night and we were even scared to come out the following morning.
It is uncalled for the SSS to start shooting people whether Boko Haram or Keke Napep operators. They should first be arrested and investigated.”
In his contribution, Mohammed Saleh (APC-Kaduna) noted that “The SSS must be properly trained, adding that they should have cordoned off the area and not engaged those who were there.”
Ruling on the matter, Senate President David Mark, stressed that the Senate will only act after completion of thorough investigation, stressing the need to work with fact and not sentiment.
