- By Halimah Olamide
Days after the allegations came out that a suspect died in the custody of the police in Abuja, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun Tuesday ordered the reopening of the case.
The allegation had gone viral after the mother appeared on a popular programme Brekete where she narrated her ordeal and the death of her son in the custody of the police.
Earlier, spokesman of the police Olumuyiwa Adejobi had explained that the suspect died of asphyxiation while in custody.
He had said that the late Erasmus Emhenya was a cultist who died while he was in police detention.
He said the matter has been concluded.
His reaction had however sparked more controversy with more people accusing the police of murder.
Emhenya allegedly died in police custody at the Nyanya Divisional Police Headquarters, FCT on the 10th of April 2023.
Adejobi, while confirming that the IGP ordered for fresh investigation said this is to unravel the cause of death and ensure the prevalence of justice.
A video shared by Brekete TV had captured the mother of Erasmus in very distressing situation as she made the allegation against the police over the death of her son.
He said, “The Inspector-General of Police who has expressed his grave concern over the incident, has further directed the DIG FCID to immediately commence a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter and forward the report as soon as possible.
“The IGP therefore calls for calm and support from members of the public on the matter while assuring that the police will continually uphold and protect people’s human rights in their day-to-day activities. He equally reassures the public of the Police’s commitment to sustaining its internal control mechanism to deal decisively and sanction any erring police personnel who engage in unprofessional conduct.
The IGP hereby commiserates with the family of the deceased and prays for the repose of his soul.”