The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has urged medical practitioners across the country to attend to and treat victims of gunshots and related accidents, whether they have a police report or not.
Lafiya360 reports that the Police boss gave this directive against the background of the ongoing concern over the avoidable loss of lives as a result of neglect by health facilities. He also urged them to treat patients with promptness and compassion.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP’s directive aligns with the full enforcement of the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act of 2017. The Act 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.
The statement reads, “The IGPs decision comes as a response to the relentless outcry from concerned citizens and the broader community, highlighting the tragic consequences of delays in treating these victims.
“The IGP 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 calls on all medical institutions and professionals to adhere to these directives and fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies when necessary, emphasizing the paramount importance of saving lives and promoting a safer and healthier society.
“The Nigeria Police will collaborate with all relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, particularly the Federal Ministry of Health for the full enforcement of the provisions of the Act.”