Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has ordered a high-level investigation into the death of Jimoh Abdulquadri, who died while in police custody at the Kwara State Police Command. The 35-year-old’s death has sparked concerns about police conduct and detention practices.
Abdulquadri, detained on December 19 over an alleged N220,000 debt to an individual identified as Peter, was pronounced dead in the early hours of Friday. Family members have leveled serious accusations against police operatives at the state command headquarters, claiming their relative was subjected to brutality during his detention.
The case has drawn national attention, prompting IGP Egbetokun to personally visit the bereaved family in Kwara State. During his meeting with the Balogun Fulani of Ilorin, Alhaji Sadiq Atiku Fulani, who spoke on behalf of the family, the IGP pledged a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Abdulquadri’s death.
In response to the gravity of the situation, Egbetokun has directed the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) to take immediate control of the investigation. The decision to involve the FCID, the highest investigative arm of the Nigerian Police Force, underscores the seriousness with which the police leadership is treating this case.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, emphasized the IGP’s commitment to ensuring accountability within the force. The transfer of the investigation to the FCID signals a determination to conduct an impartial and comprehensive inquiry into the events leading to Abdulquadri’s death.
The case raises troubling questions about the practice of detention for civil matters, particularly debt-related issues. The circumstances of Abdulquadri’s arrest and subsequent death have sparked discussions about police reform and the need for stricter protocols regarding civilian detention.
During his visit to the family, IGP Egbetokun stressed the importance of maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and respect for human rights within the police force. His personal intervention and promise of a thorough investigation represent a significant step in addressing the family’s concerns and ensuring justice is served.
The police chief’s call for calm while the investigation proceeds reflects the delicate balance between maintaining public order and addressing serious allegations of police misconduct. The outcome of this investigation could have far-reaching implications for police reform and accountability measures across Nigeria.
This incident adds to ongoing discussions about police reform in Nigeria, particularly regarding custody procedures and the treatment of detainees. The death of a civilian in police custody raises serious concerns about the implementation of existing protocols designed to protect the rights and safety of those in police detention.
The case has garnered significant attention in Kwara State, with community leaders and civil society organizations closely monitoring developments. The involvement of the Balogun Fulani of Ilorin in the discussions demonstrates the community’s investment in ensuring a just resolution to this tragic incident.
As the FCID begins its investigation, questions remain about the circumstances that led to Abdulquadri’s arrest and detention over a civil matter, and the events that culminated in his death. The investigation’s findings could potentially lead to significant changes in how police handle civil cases and maintain custody of suspects.
The IGP’s commitment to transparency and accountability in this case will be closely watched by both the public and police reform advocates. The outcome could serve as a precedent for handling similar cases and implementing necessary reforms within the Nigerian Police Force.
