The Lagos State Police Command has launched an investigation into the shocking death of Abdulmujid Oduga, a newlywed who allegedly died from torture while in police custody at the Ikota Police Post in the Ajah area of the state. The case, which has sparked public outrage, has led to the detention of the Investigating Police Officer (IPO) and the complainant at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba.
Confirming the development on Wednesday, Lagos police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin assured that a comprehensive probe is underway, with an autopsy scheduled to determine the exact cause of death.
“The Investigating Police Officer (IPO) and the complainant are currently in custody at the SCID, Yaba. Meanwhile, an autopsy is about to be carried out to determine the cause of death, after which further necessary actions will follow. Members of the public are assured that a thorough investigation will be carried out, and any person(s) found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” Hundeyin stated.
Oduga was reportedly arrested following a dispute with a neighbor, but what should have been a routine police intervention turned into a nightmare. Allegations have surfaced that he was brutally tortured during his detention, leading to his untimely demise.
A social media user, @Omoiyacele, who identified himself as Oduga’s cousin, took to X (formerly Twitter) on Monday to demand justice. He revealed that the police had transferred the deceased’s body to a morgue in the Epe area.
“My cousin, Late Abdulmujid Igbamitayo Oduga, was murdered by @PoliceNG just because of a mere misunderstanding between him and his neighbor. He died at the Ikota Police Post under Ajiwe Police Station, under the IOP Azeezat. The corpse was deposited at Epe.
We urge the Nigeria Police to help our family look into this matter for a clear and true picture, so we can know the particular person responsible for our beloved son’s death, just four months after his wedding.”
Oduga’s tragic death has sparked widespread condemnation, with human rights activists and concerned Nigerians demanding transparency and accountability from the police. Many have taken to social media to call for swift justice, emphasizing the urgent need for police reforms to curb brutality and custodial deaths.
As the Lagos State Police Command proceeds with its investigation, the public eagerly awaits the outcome, hoping that justice will be served and those responsible held accountable.
PIONEER NEWS 