Inside Nigeria: Treat all accident, gunshot victims without police report — Again, IGP tells doctors

VAM News update

THE Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has called medical practitioners in Nigeria to provide prompt and compassionate treatment to all victims of gunshots and accidents, irrespective of the presence or absence of a police report.

The IGP made the call in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, PRO, Force Head Quarters, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.

Egbetokun who ordered the full enforcement of the Gunshot Victims Act 2017, said the move was a response to the relentless outcry from concerned citizens and the broader community over the tragic loss of lives due to the neglect of gunshot and accident victims.

He said, ” The directive aligns with the full enforcement of the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act of 2017, which mandates that all healthcare providers prioritize the immediate care and stabilization of such patients, recognizing the critical importance of timely medical attention in saving lives”.

“This underscores the moral duty and responsibility of medical practitioners to uphold the sanctity of life and provide life-saving care to those in need aiming to bridge the gap between law enforcement agencies and healthcare providers, facilitating a more efficient and compassionate response to emergency situations, and curbing crimes by fulfilling their obligation to invite the Police for assessment while treatment is ongoing”

The Inspector-General further urged all medical institutions and professionals to adhere to the directives and fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies when necessary.

The IGP also announced the Force’s readiness to collaborate with all relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, particularly the Federal Ministry of Health for the full enforcement of the provisions of the Act.