IGP vows justice as 35-year-old man dies in police custody

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, made an unannounced visit to Ilorin on Sunday following the alleged torture and death of 35-year-old Jimoh Abdulquadri while in police custody.

Abdulquadri, a resident of the Balogun Fulani community in Ilorin, reportedly died under questionable circumstances at the Kwara State Police Command on Friday.

During a condolence visit to the deceased’s community, Egbetokun urged restraint among the youths and other community members, assuring them of a thorough investigation into the incident.

Expressing his dismay, the IGP said:

“I am very sad to be here today on a condolence visit over the death of Jimoh, of which circumstances surrounding his death are very worrisome. But justice must be served. I have already directed the investigation, and I have given the necessary directives to the CP here. We will get to the root of this case.”

Egbetokun acknowledged the warm reception he received from Ilorin residents during his tenure as Commissioner of Police in 2020 but lamented the unfortunate reason for his current visit.

He advised the community to avoid jumping to conclusions, assuring that the findings of the investigative committee would be transparent and publicly disclosed.

“Let us not jump to conclusions. I have visited the State Command and I have directed a thorough investigation,” he said.

The IGP further pledged the Police’s support for the family of the deceased, stating: “We know that no amount of support will ease their pains, but we’re sure that our efforts will go a long way. I pray that no sad story will bring me to Kwara again.”

Community leaders, including representatives from the Balogun Fulani community, local youths, and the Ilorin Descendants Union, also voiced their demand for justice.

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Reports indicate that Abdulquadri was arrested on Thursday over an alleged debt of N220,000 owed to a colleague at Olam Farms in Offa. He reportedly died in custody late Friday, sparking widespread outrage.

The IGP assured that the matter would not be swept under the carpet, emphasising that “justice will be served.”

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