Death related to police action reaches 3 in 4 months as IGP visits Kwara
Ilorin, Kwara State—The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, visited Kwara State on Sunday, December 22, 2024, to meet the family of Jimoh Abdulquadri, who died in police custody on December 20.
His death is the third linked to police actions in Kwara in just four months, raising serious concerns about police behaviour.
The IGP, accompanied by senior officers and Kwara government official, met the bereaved family at the home of the Balogun Fulani of Ilorin, Alhaji Sadiq Atiku Fulani, who spoke on behalf of the family.
During the visit, the IGP expressed his deep condolences and promised that justice would be served.
“I assure you we will uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable. The Nigeria Police Force is committed to justice and respect for human rights,” he said.
The IGP has directed the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) to take over the case to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation.
Three deaths in four months
The death of Jimoh Abdulquadri is the latest in a worrying series of fatalities linked to police actions in Kwara.
In September 2024, Qoyum Abdulyekeen Ishola, a 21-year-old student of Kwara Polytechnic, was reportedly shot during a stop-and-search operation in Ilorin. The officers involved in the incident were dismissed from the force and are now awaiting trial.
In November, Suleiman Adeyemi died after reportedly being tortured by police officers over a financial dispute.
Most recently, in December, Abdulquadri was arrested over an alleged ₦200,000 debt.
The victim’s family member, who spoke with The Informant247, stated that the police claimed the suspect hanged himself while being detained at the SIB unit of the police headquarters.
However unofficial reports suggest he died from injuries sustained while in police custody.
The series of incidents has sparked public anger, with calls for greater accountability and reform within the police force.
Call for calm amid investigations
During his visit, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) reiterated the force’s zero-tolerance policy for unprofessional conduct and appealed to the public to remain calm while investigations continue.
“The circumstances surrounding the death of this young individual are troubling, and the leadership of the police is taking this incident very seriously. I want to assure you that justice will be served,” the IGP said.
He further stated, “I have directed an investigation into the incident, and we are going to get to the root of the matter. I appeal to the public not to jump to conclusions over this incident. I have visited the police command and the cell, and I am already forming my opinion, but I am not going to conclude just yet.”
The IGP explained that highly competent detectives have been assigned to handle the case and expressed confidence in their ability to conduct a thorough investigation, ensuring the truth is uncovered.
He also assured the deceased’s family of the police force’s support, saying, “We are ready to support the family in whatever way we can as they navigate this difficult time.”
The IGP urged all stakeholders to allow due process and the rule of law to take its course. “We are committed to ensuring justice for Abdulquadri’s family and preventing similar incidents in the future,” he added.
The IGP urged the public to remain calm and allow investigations to proceed. “We ask everyone to stay peaceful and trust that the law will take its course. Justice will be done,” he said.
