A tragic incident has rocked Delta State as a 24-year-old upcoming singer, Paul Obukowho, has reportedly lost his life in police custody after allegedly being subjected to severe torture by officers of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Delta State Police Command, Asaba.
According to reports from Sahara Reporters, Paul Obukowho was detained and allegedly tortured after he visited the RRS office to inquire about the arrest of his close friend, Prosper Odili. The incident has sparked public outrage, with many calling for an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
How Paul Obukowho Was Detained and Tortured
Sources close to the case revealed that Prosper Odili was arrested by RRS operatives on Wednesday morning along Redeemed Road, Okpanam, in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. Despite a thorough search of his home yielding no incriminating evidence, he was detained at the police headquarters in Asaba.
Concerned about his friend’s sudden arrest, Paul Obukowho decided to visit the RRS office later that day to inquire about Prosper's situation and explore options for his possible release. However, upon arriving at the station, Paul himself was detained by officers, handcuffed on both his hands and legs, and allegedly subjected to extreme torture.
Eyewitnesses claim that Paul suffered brutal treatment at the hands of the police. By Thursday night, he reportedly collapsed inside the detention cell due to the severity of the torture wounds. Officers subsequently rushed him to the police clinic for medical attention.
Unfortunately, the clinic at the police station was unable to handle his deteriorating condition. He was then referred to the Specialist Hospital in Asaba for further treatment. However, his health continued to decline, leading to yet another transfer—this time to the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Asaba.
Despite all medical efforts, Paul succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of Saturday at around 4:00 AM. Witnesses at the FMC Asaba reported that as soon as Paul was confirmed dead, the RRS officers who had transported him to the hospital immediately fled the premises, abandoning his body and avoiding further confrontation.
Demands for Justice Grow Louder
Paul Obukowho's tragic death has ignited calls for justice from his family, friends, and concerned citizens. His body currently remains at the Federal Medical Center in Asaba as loved ones demand accountability from the Delta State Police Command.
The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. However, human rights activists and members of the public are urging the authorities to take swift action against those responsible for Paul’s alleged torture and wrongful death.
As the case gains national attention, many are drawing parallels to past incidents of police brutality in Nigeria, further intensifying the debate over the urgent need for police r
eform in the country.