Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has assured the public that his administration is closely monitoring the investigation into the death of Jimoh Abdulqadir, who died while in police custody.
Abdulqadir, identified as a poultry farmer, was reportedly arrested on December 20, following a complaint from a client over an unpaid debt.
According to a family source, the police claimed Abdulqadir committed suicide in his cell when his family arrived to secure his bail.
The incident sparked widespread outrage, with Nigerians demanding justice. This public outcry prompted the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to visit Abdulqadir’s family.
During his visit, the IGP directed the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) to take immediate control of the investigation into the incident.
Reacting to the tragedy, Governor Abdulrazaq, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, called for calm and reassured citizens of the state’s commitment to justice.
He praised the IGP’s swift visit to Abdulqadir’s family in Ilorin, describing it as a positive step toward ensuring a thorough investigation.
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The governor further urged the police chief to guarantee that justice prevails in the case, commending the prompt actions taken within hours of the incident being reported.
“We are devastated by the death of Mr. Jimoh Abdulqadir. It was one tragedy too many for our community. It is unacceptable.
“While restating our commiserations to the Balogun Fulani Alhaji Abubakar Sidiq Atiku Fulani and the immediate family of the deceased, we are upbeat that the police hierarchy will get to the roots of the incident, ensure that justice is served, and step up efforts to address other alleged violations and reservations of the citizens”, the governor said.
He urged the state’s residents, particularly the youth, to remain calm, abide by the law, and avoid rushing to conclusions that could hinder genuine resolutions of the issues.
“I also commend the Balogun Gambari of Ilorin and the youths of the area for the maturity with which the issue has been handled. We ask Allaah to repose the soul of Mr Jimoh Abdulqadir,” the statement added.
