More than a month after the death of 35-year-old Olatunji Jimoh in police custody, his family and the Balogun Fulani community of Ilorin Emirate have called for the immediate release of his autopsy report and prosecution of those responsible.
Speaking to journalists in Ilorin on Friday, Mr. Owolabi Olumuyiwa Tayo, convener of Justice for Olatunji Jimoh, expressed frustration over the delay, stating that justice delayed is justice denied.
Olatunji reportedly died on December 20, 2024, while in police custody after being arrested for allegedly owing his superior, Gabriel Sunday, N220,000. However, the family claims they have been denied access to the autopsy report, despite reports that it was completed and submitted to the police two weeks ago.
“They keep lying to us, sending us back and forth between the doctor and the police. They know that the results do not support their claim that Olatunji hanged himself,” Tayo said.
The deceased’s family and community have called on Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, to intervene. They have also urged the National Assembly to investigate the case thoroughly.
“If we allow those responsible to go unpunished, Nigeria is sitting on a time bomb due to the actions of some unprofessional police officers,” Tayo warned.
The family also revealed that Olatunji left behind two children and elderly parents, who are currently hospitalized due to the trauma of his death.
“As we speak, the family is in deep pain and suffering alone. How long shall we allow innocent citizens to suffer at the hands of corrupt and brutal police officers?” Tayo asked.
