The shooting of Bolanle Raheem, a lawyer, by a police officer on Christmas Day in Lagos has elicited reactions from the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, and presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar.
Bolanle was shot when she and her family members were returning from a Christmas service.
In a statement, Tinubu said: “I share the grief and frustration of Nigerians over the senseless killing of Mrs. Ombolanle Raheem by a police officer on Christmas Day in Lagos.
“The avoidable tragedy, which cost a family a beloved member and our country a diligent legal professional, underscores, yet again, the crucial importance and urgency of reforming the Nigeria Police Force.
“The important institution must live up to its constitutional mandate of protecting the people and keeping the peace. Encounters with law enforcement agents should not result in death, injury, or undue harassment for law-abiding citizens. That is unacceptable.”
He added: “While I send my sincere condolences to Omobolanle’s family, I urge the Inspector General of Police and other responsible authorities to ensure speedy justice in the matter and demonstrate even greater dedication to the nationwide implementation of measures designed to uphold professionalism within the force.”
Atiku, in his statement, said: “The shooting of Bolanle Raheem by a police officer is heartbreaking and stands condemned. This latest shooting calls to attention the urgent need for Police reforms that will sanitise the Force and bring it in line with best policing practices.”
He added: “I call on the police authorities and the Justice system to expedite action on the matter, as justice delayed is justice denied. This will serve as a deterrent to the incidents of irresponsible shooting of innocent citizens by law enforcement agents. I express my deepest condolences to the family, friends and the Nigeria Bar Association, in particular its Lagos chapter. May her soul rest in peace.”
The shooting of Bolanle Raheem has sparked outrage and calls for justice from the public, with many calling for reforms in the Nigeria Police Force to prevent such incidents from occurring.
The authorities have promised to take swift action in the case and bring those responsible to justice.
