House of Representatives Hails Inspector General Of Police Directive on Gunshot Victim Care

The House of Representatives has lauded the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for issuing a directive to enforce the Compulsory Treatment of Victims of Gunshot Act, 2017. The lawmakers expressed their appreciation through a joint statement signed by Hon. Makki Yalleman, Chairman of the House Committee on Police Affairs, and Hon. Akin Rotimi, Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs.

The House Committee emphasized the need for strict compliance with the law and urged the IGP and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to prosecute individuals who violate the Act. They welcomed the IGP’s recent internal memo, dated October 25, 2023, which instructed Police Formations and Commands to enforce the Act without hesitation and educate hospitals on its provisions.

The memo, signed by the IGP’s Principal Staff Officer, CSP Olatunji Disu, stressed the importance of making the law a subject of discussion to rectify the ignorance prevalent in hospitals, which has unfortunately resulted in the loss of lives. The House of Representatives emphasized the urgency of this matter, especially in light of the recent case of Ms. Greatness Olorunfemi, who fell victim to a one-chance robbery in Abuja.

The House received a petition regarding this incident on October 10, 2023, and it is currently under review by the House Committee on Public Petitions. The lawmakers maintained that every Nigerian brought to a hospital deserves care, stabilization, and dignity, as dictated by the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The House commended the Nigeria Police Force for this timely action, addressing the rising complaints about hospitals refusing prompt treatment for victims of gunshot incidents, robberies, and accidents without police reports. This development, they believe, reaffirms the value placed on the lives of all citizens and restores confidence in the healthcare system.

The House further called upon the Nigeria Police and the Nigeria Medical Association to ensure strict compliance with the Act and prosecute those who contravene it. They also urged the media and relevant government agencies to give widespread attention to this crucial issue.