A poultry farmer, Jimoh Tunji Abdulqadir, has reportedly died in the custody of the Kwara State Police Command under controversial circumstances, raising serious concerns about alleged police misconduct.
The 45-year-old was arrested on Friday, December 20, 2024, following a complaint by a client regarding a N200,000 debt he reportedly owed.
According to a family source, police informed them that Abdulqadir had committed suicide in the cell shortly before they arrived to facilitate his bail.
“We believe he was tortured to death by some officers, rather than the suicide narrative they are presenting,” the source alleged.
The family has called for an independent investigation to determine the true circumstances of his death, expressing skepticism about the official account provided by the police.
Reacting to the incident, the spokesperson for the Kwara State Police Command, DSP Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, described the death as a tragic loss. She disclosed that Abdulqadir had been invited to answer allegations of obtaining money by false pretenses to the tune of N220,000.
“Discreet investigations into this incident have commenced to ascertain the cause of his death. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses, and no stone will be left unturned,” DSP Ejire-Adeyemi stated.
The incident has sparked outrage among community members and human rights advocates, who are demanding transparency and accountability.
“This is not the first time we are hearing of such cases. If the allegations of torture are proven true, those responsible must be held accountable,” said Adebayo Olatunji, a local activist.
The circumstances surrounding Abdulqadir’s death have intensified calls for police reform and stricter oversight to prevent abuse of power within law enforcement agencies.
As the investigation unfolds, Abdulqadir’s family and the community are awaiting answers to determine the truth behind his untimely death. For now, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for improved safeguards in police custody to ensure the protection of detainees’ rights.
