IGP Orders Fresh Probe into Death of Suspect at Nyanya Police Station

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a fresh investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a suspect, Erasmus Emhenya at the Nyanya Divisional Headquarters, Federal Capital Territory, FCT Abuja.

Erasmus, who was arrested by operatives of the FCT command over an incident in Nyanya, died on April 10, 2023, while in custody.

The mother of the deceased, a food seller in Abuja, had accused the police of torturing her son to death during an interview on Human Rights Radio and Television program, Brekete Family. She alleged that despite her efforts to see him, police officers at the station denied her access.

According to her, another detainee informed her of Erasmus’ death, claiming he died after being tortured by the police.

The video clip of the interview circulated on social media, prompting calls from stakeholders for a thorough investigation into the matter.

The FCT police command refuted the allegation, stating that an autopsy conducted on Erasmus’ body did not indicate torture. The command had previously conducted discrete investigations into the matter in 2023.

In a statement issued by the Force Spokesperson, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, on Tuesday night, the Inspector General expressed concern over the incident and directed the Deputy Inspector General of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) to immediately commence a thorough and transparent investigation.

“The Inspector-General of Police has been briefed on the controversy surrounding the death of Erasmus Emhenya at the Nyanya Divisional Police Headquarters on April 10, 2023. He has ordered a fresh investigation to determine the cause of death and ensure justice prevails,” Adejobi said.

“The IG has directed the DIG FCID to commence a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter and submit the report promptly,” he added.