The African Action Congress (AAC) Gombe State Chapter has formally petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, requesting a comprehensive investigation into a recent truck accident in Billiri. This tragic event occurred during an Easter procession and resulted in multiple fatalities.

The petition, signed by state chairman Bobo Benson Bagwiba, was directed to the Commissioner of Police, Gombe State Command, with copies circulated to the Police Service Commission, Zonal Assistant Inspector General, and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Gombe. The AAC alleges that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Billiri Division deliberately shielded the truck driver implicated in the incident.

According to the AAC, the DPO prematurely issued a statement attributing the crash to suspected brake failure, without conducting a thorough technical investigation or expert analysis. This initial claim, according to the AAC, was later contradicted when a second police press release charged the driver with causing death by dangerous driving and inconsiderate driving.

The AAC claims that eyewitness accounts indicating the driver intentionally drove into the crowd were disregarded during the early stages of the investigation. They further allege that the DPO failed to preserve the crime scene, secure crucial evidence, or properly document testimonies. The party characterizes these actions as deliberate misinformation, dereliction of duty, and conduct likely to undermine peace within the community.

The AAC asserts that the DPO breached several provisions of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, including those related to general duties, officer conduct, accountability, and offences by police officers. They also cite constitutional breaches, referring to Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which emphasizes the security and welfare of the people as the primary purpose of government, and Section 15(5), which demands the abolition of corrupt practices and abuse of power.

The AAC demands the immediate redeployment of the DPO from Billiri, appropriate disciplinary measures, a formal public retraction and apology from the police command, and a full review of the investigation process. The party emphasizes that their petition is a demand for justice, accountability, and institutional reform, underscoring that no officer should be above the law. The AAC urges the Nigeria Police Force to act swiftly and transparently to restore public confidence.