Again, IGP Orders Doctors To Treat All Gunshots, Accident Victims With or Without Police Report

By Sola Omoniyi, Lagos

The inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbedokun, has again issued a resounding call to all Nigeria medical practitioners to provide prompt treatment to all gunshots and accident victims, irrespective of the presence or absence of a police report.

This is according to a statement signed by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer.

Olumuyiwa maintained that this is in response to the ongoing concern over the tragic loss of lives due to neglect of gunshots and accident victims.

“The IGP’s 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. Part of the statement reads

“The IGP 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 emergencies, and curbing crimes by fulfilling their obligation to invite the Police for assessment while treatment is ongoing.” It added

However, 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.