Police, Nigerians Demand Justice for DPO Slain by Soldiers at Checkpoint

Malik Yahya/

The tragic killing of SP Haliru Liman, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Wusaga in Kebbi State, has ignited a fervent call for justice from the Nigeria Police Force, as well as the local community.

The incident, which took place on August 28, 2024, at a military checkpoint in Zamfara State, has shocked the nation and highlighted the urgent need for accountability in inter-agency operations.

SP Liman was on his way to attend a police conference when he encountered a military checkpoint manned by soldiers from Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) Sector 6. After identifying himself, he was initially allowed to proceed in his red Toyota Corolla car. However, a soldier at the checkpoint, known as Hassan, reportedly harbored a personal grudge against Liman. This animosity set off a series of events that culminated in the DPO’s untimely death.

Determined to “teach the DPO a lesson,” Hassan and a fellow soldier mounted motorcycles and pursued Liman’s vehicle. Unable to catch up, they contacted the next checkpoint, instructing their colleagues to stop the DPO.

When Liman arrived at the second checkpoint, he was stopped again but was allowed to continue after a community elder vouched for his identity.

As Liman began to drive away, the two soldiers arrived on motorcycles and confronted him. In the ensuing altercation, they ordered the DPO to return to the previous checkpoint. As he complied, Hassan reportedly raised his rifle and shot Liman in the head at point-blank range.

The brutal killing has left the police force reeling, with officers across the country demanding justice for their fallen colleague. The police have accused the military of attempting to cover up the incident and have called for a comprehensive, multi-agency investigation to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

“This is a clear case of murder, and we will not rest until justice is served,” said a senior police officer. “SP Haliru Liman was a dedicated officer, and his life was taken in the most senseless and brutal manner. We demand justice, not just for him, but for every officer who puts their life on the line for this country.”

The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many fearing that without a thorough investigation, the case could be swept under the rug, much like other instances of inter-agency violence in the past. The police have vowed to keep the pressure on until justice is achieved, urging the public to join them in their demand for accountability.

As the nation grapples with the implications of this tragic event, the call for justice for SP Haliru Liman continues to echo across the country, a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those tasked with protecting the public. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for the relationship between Nigeria’s security agencies and the rule of law.

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