Micah Jonah
February 5, 2026
The family of a 24 year old man, Patrick Peresousdei, has accused operatives of the Bayelsa State Police Command of torturing him while in custody, leading to his death days after his release.
Patrick reportedly died six days after he was released from detention at the Operation Puff Alder unit of the Bayelsa State Police Command. His death has since triggered protests in parts of Yenagoa, the state capital, with youths demanding an independent investigation.
Speaking during a visit by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Kemepado Nimizigha, the deceased’s younger brother, Destiny Peresousdei, alleged that Patrick was subjected to severe torture after being arrested alongside him.
Destiny claimed that on January 15, 2026, both brothers were assaulted by a man identified as Bodmas Kemepadei with the assistance of personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps before being handed over to the police on allegations of threat to life.
He said the brothers were detained without formal statements, subjected to repeated beatings, adding that Patrick’s health deteriorated while in custody.
“They later threw my brother to me. He could not talk or lift his arms. That was when our uncle rushed him to the hospital,” Destiny said.
According to him, Patrick was taken to several public hospitals in Bayelsa State, was later referred to a medical facility in Port Harcourt. He said the family struggled to raise funds for treatment and that the police never provided medical care.
Patrick reportedly died on January 28 after developing breathing complications.
The Bayelsa State Police Command has denied the allegation of torture. In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Muhammad, said Patrick was brought to the station already injured and that police officers acted appropriately.
Muhammad stated that preliminary findings showed bruises on the suspects upon arrival, that Patrick was taken to a police clinic after he was found incoherent during interrogation. He added that doctors later advised his release to family members for proper medical attention.
The police said investigations have commenced, that a manhunt has been launched for Bodmas Kemepadei and others allegedly involved in the initial arrest.
Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State Government has assured the public that justice will be served.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Biriyai Dambo, said the state is working closely with security agencies to ensure a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation. He added that the Governor has directed the Ministry of Justice to take over the matter for prosecution once investigations are concluded.
