Family Demands Investigation into Olatunji Jimoh’s Death

Speaking on behalf of the Jimoh Alabi family, Owolabi Olumuyiwa, a concerned citizen and convener, addressed journalists in Ilorin, shedding light on the distressing circumstances surrounding Olatunji’s death.

According to Olumuyiwa, the deceased was arrested by the police over a debt-related matter. On December 19, 2024, Olatunji was allegedly lured by Kehinde Jelili while washing clothes at his residence in the Balogun Fulani area of Ilorin.

He was then reportedly abducted by officers of the Special Investigation Bureau (SIB) of the Nigeria Police Force, who arrived on a motorcycle and detained him at the Ilorin police headquarters.

Family’s Attempt to Secure Bail Rejected

Later that evening, around 6:00 PM, Olatunji managed to contact his family. Upon arrival at the police headquarters, his family confirmed that he owed his superior, Gabriel Sunday, a sum of ₦220,000. However, despite the family paying part of the amount from the ₦425,000 cash found on him, police officers identified as Adekunle Emmanuel Ogunsola, Emmanuel Ajiboye, and Oluwole Bamiteko allegedly refused to grant him bail and instructed the family to return the next morning.

Shocking Death in Custody

At approximately 10:00 PM the same night, the family received a distressing call urging them to come to the police station. Upon arrival, they were informed that Olatunji had allegedly hung himself inside the cell and was pronounced dead.

Adding to the family’s grief, when they requested for his body, the police informed them that it had already been transferred to the mortuary. Disturbingly, they also discovered that Olatunji’s body had been dissected, with wounds visible on his lap and other parts, all without their consent.

Calls for Justice and Accountability

Olumuyiwa called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure a thorough investigation to determine the true cause of Olatunji’s death. He emphasized the need for justice and demanded that the officers involved be prosecuted for their unlawful actions. Furthermore, he urged authorities to provide support for Olatunji’s two young children, who have been left without a father.

Parents Seek Compensation Over Son’s Death

Expressing their devastation, Olatunji’s parents, Jimoh Alabi and Adijat Jimoh, appealed to the police authorities for compensation, citing the immense emotional and psychological trauma caused by the untimely death of their son.

Legal Intervention and Advocacy Against Police Brutality

Barrister Olukayode Oloyede, the legal representative of the Olatunji family, also weighed in on the issue, calling on the Inspector General of Police to address cases of police brutality in Kwara State. He stressed the urgent need for reform to prevent further loss of innocent lives at the hands of law enforcement officers.

This tragic incident has once again raised serious concerns about human rights violations and police excesses in Nigeria, sparking widespread calls for accountability and justice.