Edo Youths: Policemen alleged to have caused cab driver’s death testifies before panel

TWO Policemen involved in the incident at Upper Igun area of Benin City that led to the alleged killing of a cab driver, David Okoniba, have appeared before the Justice Joseph Olubor-led Administrative Panel of Inquiry to give testimony of their involvement in the fracas which led to a clash between the Police and some youths in the state.

The Panel set up by Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, to look into the immediate and remote cause of the incident, commenced hearing on February 15, Thursday. The fiancé of the deceased Miss Ruth Okojie has since appeared before the panel.

However, at the weekend, two of the Police officers on duty at the Police post where the incident occurred appeared before the panel and gave their versions of the circumstances surrounding the death of Okoniba.

The Policemen are Inspector Adebisi and Sergeant Gabriel, who maintained that they were on duty on a fateful day for regular stop and search operations.

Chairman of the Panel, Justice Olubor said appreciable progress has been recorded since the hearing began, as those who witnessed the incident have been forthcoming with testimonies of what transpired on a fateful day. He added that if the turnout is sustained, enough leads as to the cause of the incident would be gathered.

Noting that the testimonies will facilitate the realisation of the panel’s mission, he said, “Today’s turnout has been impressive and we have made progress. We took testimonies from quite a number of witnesses. I can see the enthusiasm of members of the public; it is very impressive. I believe, if testimonies continue at this rate, we will be able to get enough information that will assist the Panel.”

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Justice Olubor encouraged other members of the public with vital information to appear before the panel and tender their testimonies, as the venue of the seating is quite accessible.

Others, who appeared before the panel, include, one Emmanuel Okosun, a mechanic in the area; Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor from Esan South East Local Government Area, Chris Oseiwe Oribhabor; father of one of the deceased persons in the clash (Junior Onogbosele), Monday Onogbosele; the driver of the trailer, Dirisu Aneru and Mr. Ikponmwosa Kennedy Nehikhare.