Rita Odafe
A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered an investigation into the death of young journalist Pelumi Onifade, who was killed while covering the #EndSARS protests in 2020.
Onifade was allegedly arrested by Lagos state task force officers and later discovered dead in a mortuary in Ikorodu, Lagos.
The court has mandated a coroner’s inquest to uncover the cause of his death and to hold those responsible accountable.
The ruling followed a lawsuit filed by Media Rights Agenda (MRA) against the Police and Lagos State Government.
Charles Musa, a Lagos lawyer nominated for Senior Advocate of Nigeria, filed the lawsuit on behalf of MRA, citing constitutional and international human rights violations.
Justice Ayokunle Olayinka Faji criticized the lack of response from the Police and emphasized the need for a transparent investigation into Onifade’s death.
While some claims against the police were dismissed due to insufficient evidence, the court directed the Attorney-General to ensure a thorough probe, conduct a coroner’s inquest, and prosecute those found responsible.
