The death of Jimoh Abdulquadri, a 35-year-old detainee, in Ilorin police custody has ignited a firestorm of controversy and outrage. Accusations of torture have surfaced, prompting the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to order a full investigation. This incident raises serious questions about police conduct and the treatment of detainees in Nigeria.
Here’s a breakdown of the key points in this developing story:
- The Incident: Jimoh Abdulquadri died while in police detention in Ilorin on Saturday, December 20th, 2024.
- Torture Allegations: Family members allege Abdulquadri was tortured to death by police officers.
- IGP’s Response: The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a thorough investigation into the death.
- Community Outrage: The Ilorin community is demanding justice for Abdulquadri and accountability for those responsible.
A Community in Mourning and Demand for Justice
The IGP visited Ilorin to express his condolences to the family and urged calm within the community. He emphasized that justice will be served, and the matter would not be ‘swept under the rug.’ The visit comes after public outcry over the suspicious circumstances surrounding Abdulquadri’s death. Local community leaders, including the Balogun Fulani, and the Ilorin Descendants Union, have also joined the call for a full, transparent investigation.
The Arrest and Alleged Torture
Abdulquadri was arrested on December 19th, 2024, for allegedly owing a colleague ₦220,000. According to his family, he was arrested with his phone and ₦350,000 in his possession. The family says that they were already in the process of paying off the debt when he was detained. Tragically, he reportedly died the next day, December 20th. His mother and brother claim that police beat him to death with a hard object, with his nose oozing blood and that his body was covered in bruises. They say that the police claim he hanged himself in his cell which they believe is false due to his height.
Police Response and Investigation
The Kwara State Police Command has acknowledged the death of Jimoh Abdulquadri and stated that investigations have begun to ascertain the cause of death. They confirmed that Abdulquadri was invited on allegations of obtaining money by false pretenses. The Police Public Relations Officer, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, said that further information will be released as the investigation progresses. However, the family and the community are skeptical, given the allegations of torture and the conflicting details that the police have offered.
Further Questions Arise
This incident highlights a growing concern regarding police brutality and accountability in Nigeria. The call for justice extends beyond just this case as the Nigerian public demands accountability for police actions. This case bears similarities to the ongoing conversation around police reform and the need for a better system for handling alleged crimes.
The investigation ordered by the IGP is a crucial step. Nigerians will be closely watching to see whether this investigation will bring justice and provide answers for the grieving family of Jimoh Abdulquadri and the wider community. This case also raises the question: How can the police force regain public trust if such abuses continue?
A Look at Related Incidents
This is not the first time that the Nigerian police have been accused of extrajudicial killings and abuses. There have been several other similar cases across the nation. For example, in 2020, nationwide protests against police brutality erupted under the banner of #EndSARS. These protests highlighted the widespread anger over police violence. The recent call for an investigation into this tragic death underscores the urgent need for reform and the enforcement of law among police officers.
