Bayelsa: Police Order Mental Health Evaluation for Inspector Who Assaulted Own Children
….. NBA, FIDA, CSOs Demand Swift Prosecution
The Bayelsa State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Inspector Sunday Ideh over the brutal assault on his three children, whom he accused of witchcraft.
The police authorities also disclosed that the embattled officer would undergo a comprehensive mental health evaluation to determine his psychological state before prosecution.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Sanusi Mohammed, made this known in Yenagoa when members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), led by the Vice Chairman, Dr. Vivien Brisibe, and the Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Bayelsa State Branch, Dr. Boma Miebaiwho, paid a courtesy visit to the command.
Mohammed explained that while the Inspector had been known as a disciplined officer before the incident, the police hierarchy would ensure that justice is served.
> “The officer is in custody, and this matter will not be swept under the carpet. He will be subjected to proper medical evaluation and diligently prosecuted in accordance with the law,” he stated.
Earlier, NBA Yenagoa Branch Vice Chairman, Dr. Vivien Brisibe, expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as “barbaric and inexcusable,” especially coming from a law enforcement officer entrusted with the duty to protect citizens.
> “He should be prosecuted and charged appropriately. This is not a case that deserves a slap on the wrist; it borders on attempted murder,” she emphasized.
In her remarks, FIDA Bayelsa Chairperson, Dr. Boma Miebaiwho, raised concerns about the welfare of the assaulted children, urging the police not to release them to the family but to ensure they are placed under proper care. She disclosed that an NGO had volunteered to take custody of the children to ensure their safety and rehabilitation.
Meanwhile, the Do Foundation, a gender-based violence advocacy group, has commended the State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, for his swift intervention and called for expedited prosecution of the erring officer.
In a letter of appreciation signed by the foundation’s founder and team leader, Dr. Dise Ogbise Goddy-Harry, and addressed to the Commissioner of Police, the group urged the command to ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done.
“The police must demonstrate zero tolerance for abuse, particularly when it involves one of its own. We appreciate the prompt response but expect a thorough prosecution and protection of the victims,” the statement read.
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