From Adewale Momoh, Akure

Deceased was never turtured, commander insists

The family of a deceased farmer, Monday Joseph, has called for an investigation into his alleged death while in the custody of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps.

Joseph, said to be the breadwinner of his family, was reportedly arrested in Owo, headquarters of Owo Local Council, on Sunday, March 30, and died less than 48 hours later.

His sister, Veronica, said the family was denied access to him while in custody and was only informed of his death after his remains were deposited at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo.

Speaking emotionally, she said: “He was arrested at his girlfriend’s residence. They didn’t allow me to see him. I heard he was beaten on Sunday, and by Monday, he had died. He had a child. Our mother is still alive. We are from Delta State, but he was born and raised here in Ondo.”

Veronica alleged that Amotekun officers brought his body to the mortuary. She insisted that justice be served. Counsel to the family, Ibukun Fasanmi, has petitioned the police and Department of State Services (DSS), calling for a full-scale investigation and prosecution of the officers allegedly responsible. He warned that the development could trigger unrest among aggrieved persons, urging authorities to act swiftly to avoid a breakdown of law and order.

In response, Commander of the Ondo Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, denied any wrongdoing, stating that Joseph was arrested for alleged cult-related activities and later took ill in custody.

“He was never tortured. He became sick and was rushed to the hospital, where he died,” Adeleye said.