The death of 35-year-old Tunji Jimoh in police custody has ignited widespread outrage in Ilorin, Kwara State, with the Erubu-Asunnara community demanding an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his demise.
Jimoh, a father and poultry worker from the Erubu-Asunnara community in Ilorin South Local Government Area, was reportedly arrested on Friday, December 20, 2024, over a ₦220,000 debt owed to a colleague, Mr. Peter, whose brother is alleged to be a police officer.
Family members said Jimoh was detained at the Special Investigation Bureau (SIB) of the Kwara State Police Command without bail.
They claimed they were denied access to him late on Friday, only to be informed the following morning that he had died in custody.
Community members alleged that Jimoh was tortured in custody, with reports suggesting the treatment stemmed from unresolved issues with his creditor.
However, the police claimed the deceased committed suicide, a theory dismissed by the family and community leaders, who argued that the detention facility’s structure makes such an act implausible.
The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Sunday by its spokesperson, DSP Ejire Adeyemi Toun, describing the incident as “unfortunate.”
“The state police command is aware of an unfortunate incident that led to the tragic death of one Mr. Jimoh Abdulquadri, which occurred on December 20, 2024.
“Investigations into the incident have commenced, and no stone will be left unturned,” DSP Adeyemi assured.
The Erubu-Asunnara community, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim O. Mujeeb, and Acting General Secretary, Comrade Hassan Taiye Erubu, condemned the incident, describing it as heartbreaking.
“It is heartbreaking that Tunji’s lifeless body was deposited at a mortuary without the family’s consent.
“Tunji’s death must not go unpunished. We demand justice for his family, our community, and humanity,” the statement said.
The community has called on the Inspector-General of Police, the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to ensure justice is served.
They also appealed to the National Assembly, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), human rights groups, and civil society organizations to join the call for justice under the hashtag #JusticeForTunji.
The incident has sparked condemnation across Kwara State and beyond, with activists and community leaders decrying alleged police brutality.
Many have taken to social media to demand accountability and reforms within the police force.
As investigations continue, the family and community of Tunji Jimoh are urging authorities to ensure a transparent and fair process to uncover the truth behind his tragic death.(vitalnewsngr.com)
