Nigerian Hospitals can treat gunshot wounds without police report – IG

Nigeria Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed that all victims of gunshot wounds be treated by a hospital with or without a police report.  

The IG authorized doctors to prioritize the health of such persons first, citing that the directive aligns with the full enforcement of the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act of 2017.  

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the police public relations officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Saturday. 

According to Adejobi, the IGP has directed that all hospital and clinic facilities adhere to this directive to promote a healthier and safer society.  

He further stated that the decision was taken following the incessant complaints filed by the public that most hospitals require that a police report be presented first before a doctor can attend to a victim of gunshot wounds.  

He said,  

Subsequently, the head of the Nigeria police also stated that the police force is working in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health as well as other relevant agencies to ensure that the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act of 2017 is enforced at all tiers of government.  

According to the statement, the 2017 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.