Former videographer says 2011 police shooting derailed his career

Emmanuel Tomori says a police bullet fired at a Lagos checkpoint in 2011 permanently changed his career and left him unable to use his right hand normally. Tomori, now 47, told PUNCH that he was stopped near Akowonjo on September 30, 2011, while travelling from Ajao Estate to Egbeda. He said officers were shouting when a bullet came through the boot of his car and struck his hand.

He alleged that the officers abandoned him after the shooting. He and his friend eventually reached Dopemu Police Station before he was taken to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital. Tomori said witnesses claimed some officers had been drinking and harassing motorists, though those allegations are presented as his account.

Before the incident, Tomori worked as a video editor and motion graphics and visual effects specialist for Wale Adenuga Productions, which produces programmes including Super Story and Papa Ajasco. He had hoped to become a Nollywood director. Tomori said the injury prevented him from progressing and caused emotional, physical and financial hardship.

He now uses a computer mouse with his left hand and earns small amounts through remote video-editing jobs. He also alleged that the police have not complied with a court judgment, despite efforts to enforce it.