The family of a 23-year-old man, Dada Yusuf, is at war with the Ondo State Police Command over the circumstances behind his death, days after he was detained and allegedly tortured by the police.
The family alleged that Yusuf died from the complications he sustained from injuries inflicted on him by the police while he was illegally detained.
This is coming on the heels of growing concerns about cases of police brutality.
Speaking with The Punch online on Sunday, 14 September, 2025, a relative of the victim, Afolabi Bisoye, disclosed that the deceased was arrested by some police operatives attached to the Squadron Squad in Akure on August 31.
According to him, following the arrest, the police allegedly detained and tortured him, after which he collapsed in custody.
He added that the family was only informed about the incident after the police had taken him to a hospital, where Dada was later referred to another hospital.
Afolabi added that despite the efforts of medical personnel to save the victim’s life, he allegedly succumbed to injuries he sustained from the police torture.
Afolabi said, “Yusuf Israel Dada was harassed and unlawfully arrested by the Scorpion Squad, a team of police officers led by Inspector Olayiya Kasim, stationed at the Federal University of Technology, while on his way to Akure. Yusuf was brutally beaten in custody to the point of falling into a coma.
“Instead of ensuring his safety, the officers attempted to cover up the incident. He was first taken to the Police Clinic in Akure, where it was later revealed to his family that he had sustained a gunshot wound to his chest, inflicted while in police custody.
“Due to the severity of his condition, he was referred to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, where he spent several days on oxygen. Tragically, Yusuf passed away on September 7, 2023.”
He urged the relevant authority to ensure that justice is served on the matter “Witnesses reported that the Scorpion Squad was intoxicated during the incident and violently harassed not only Yusuf but also bystanders who attempted to intervene.
“This case demands accountability and justice for Yusuf Israel Dada, whose life was unjustly cut short by police brutality”.
