Family Seeks Inquest Into Death of Imo Resident Ejiogu in 'Tiger Base' Police Custody
Magnus Ejiogu's family has petitioned the Chief Coroner of Imo State High Court to investigate his death while detained by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Nigerian Police Force in Owerri, known as the 'Tiger Base'.
Details of the Petition
The petition, filed by Kevin C. Uzozie of Kevin Uzozie & Co, claims that Ejiogu's death was violent, unnatural, sudden, and painful, following continuous torture during his detention.
"We have been informed that the said Magnus Ejiogu was arrested by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Nigerian Police Force, Owerri Division, Imo State Branch, on the 23rd day of September, 2023 at Control, Owerri, Imo State, while he was conducting his business as a transporter."
"That he was a healthy man at the time of kidnapping arrest. At the time of his death he was in the custody of the Anti-kidnapping Unit of the Nigerian police who did not release him on bail and denied access to him by both his family and lawyers; and did not bring him before any court for any offence."
"Throughout the time he was in the custody of the police, the family was never informed that he was sick."
Timeline and Circumstances
- Ejiogu was arrested on September 23, 2023, at Control, Owerri, while working as a transporter.
- He was detained without contact with family or legal representatives.
- The family was notified of his death only four days later, on October 27, 2025.
Family's Concerns
The family alleges a lack of transparency and due process, emphasizing that Ejiogu was never brought before a court or granted bail during his custody.
Call for Justice
The petition urges the court to conduct a thorough inquest to uncover the circumstances and hold responsible parties accountable.
"Ejiogu was continuously tortured until his death."
Author's summary: The family of Magnus Ejiogu demands an official investigation into his suspicious and painful death caused by torture while held without trial at the police 'Tiger Base' in Imo State.