The Edo State Police Command has arrested four personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for allegedly assaulting a Bolt driver, Henry Osarodion Osemwenkhia, leading to his death a day later.
According to the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Moses Yamu, Osemwenkhia had reported an assault by NSCDC officers on February 4, 2025, after dropping off a passenger at De Kaso Hotel, Benin City.
He alleged that an altercation with some individuals, including NSCDC officers, escalated, resulting in his tires being punctured.
Following his complaint at the New Etete Police Station, Osemwenkhia was issued a medical form for treatment.
However, he was found dead at his home the following day while awaiting the results of his medical tests. His body has since been deposited at a hospital.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered an immediate investigation to determine the circumstances that led to his death,” Yamu stated.
In response, the NSCDC Public Relations Officer for Edo State, Efosa Ogbebor, claimed that their officers were at the hotel to provide security and only intervened to separate a fight.
He also denied reports that NSCDC personnel were arrested, stating that they voluntarily reported themselves to the police.
Following the incident, Bolt drivers in Edo State staged a peaceful protest, demanding justice for their deceased colleague. They gathered at the Nigeria Union of Journalists’ Edo State Council, holding placards with messages such as “Enough of brutality by security agencies,” and “Justice for Bolt drivers.”
A spokesperson for the drivers, Festus Nwanbuzo, described Osemwenkhia as a peaceful individual and called for accountability for his death.
Credit: Nigerian Tribune