Amnesty Demands Justice for Man Who Died in Imo Police Custody

Amnesty International has called on the Imo State Government and police authorities to ensure justice for 32-year-old Japheth Njoku, who died in police custody at Tiger Base in Owerri.

The demand follows a coroner’s inquest, which found that Njoku’s prolonged detention and the inhuman conditions in which he was held contributed to his deteriorating health and eventual death.

Njoku was reportedly detained for about six weeks over an allegation of stealing without being charged before a court or granted bail.

The circumstances surrounding his detention and death have raised concerns about the treatment of suspects in police custody and the protection of their fundamental rights.

According to the findings of the inquest, the conditions of Njoku’s detention played a role in the deterioration of his health. The coroner also recommended the prosecution of two police officers over alleged extortion and corruption.

The inquest further recommended compensation for Njoku’s family.

Amnesty International is urging the Imo State Government and police authorities to implement the recommendations, stressing the need for accountability over the circumstances that led to the death.

The organisation has also called for investigations into reported attempts to obstruct the autopsy and intimidate witnesses. These allegations raise further questions about the handling of the case and the need to protect evidence and witnesses during investigations.

The case has renewed calls for safeguards against prolonged detention without due process, as well as improved oversight of police detention facilities.

Amnesty’s demand places the focus on whether the relevant authorities will act on the coroner’s findings, pursue the recommended prosecutions and provide the compensation proposed for Njoku’s family.

The implementation of the recommendations could become a significant test of accountability in the case and efforts to address concerns about the treatment of suspects in police custody.