In the tragic case of Jacob Emmanuel’s death in police custody in Abuja, his family’s desire for justice resonates strongly. His harrowing story highlights the injustices suffered by many individuals at the hands of law enforcement.
The disappearance of Jacob Emmanuel, a 22-year-old resident of Mpape, Abuja, raises serious concerns about police practices. His ordeal, which began in February 2024 over the alleged theft of a television, has become a glaring example of police abuse of power and brutality.
Held without trial for eight long months, Emmanuel allegedly suffered gruesome torture at the hands of officers of the Federal Capital Territory Command (FCT) of the Police and the Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Kado. Despite the recovery of the stolen item and the conclusion of investigations, the authorities have refused to release him or lay charges. Worse still, they allegedly demanded a bribe of N200,000, according to the family’s lawyer.
His ordeal intensified at the Guzape detention, infamously nicknamed “Abattoir” by the inmates, where he was allegedly tortured relentlessly. Emmanuel’s health deteriorated rapidly and he finally succumbed to his injuries in October 2024.
In her desperate quest for justice, Emmanuel’s widowed mother has taken multiple steps, petitioning the FCT Commissioner of Police, the National Human Rights Commission and the Inspector General of Police. Unfortunately, no concrete action has been taken.
The family’s lawyer is now calling for a thorough investigation, specifically naming Inspector Paul Shafi and other officers for their alleged role in Emmanuel’s death. Allegations that Inspector Shafi boasted about the number of youth who died in custody under his watch raise troubling questions about the conduct of law enforcement.
Jacob Emmanuel’s story exposes the flaws in the justice system and underscores the urgent need for profound reform to ensure the fundamental rights of all citizens. His untimely death is a compelling reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in institutions charged with protecting and serving the public. His family deserves justice, and his memory must be honored with concrete actions to prevent such tragedies from happening again.