The Edo State Police Command has arrested four personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) over the alleged assault and subsequent death of a Bolt driver, Henry Osemwenkhia, in Benin City.
The command’s spokesperson, Moses Yamu, confirmed it this Thursday, saying that investigations were ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Yamu said Osemwenkhia had lodged a complaint at the New Etete Police Station on February 4, 2025, alleging that he was beaten by NSCDC officers and some individuals after an altercation at De Kaso Hotel, Limit Road, Benin City.
“The deceased had taken some passengers to the hotel when an argument ensued between him and a young man. He claimed that the young man’s friends, along with NSCDC personnel, attacked him and even deflated his car tires,” Yamu stated.
He said the police received information that Osemwenkhia passed away in his house on February 5, and his body has been deposited at the hospital for further examination.
According to the police, Osemwenkhia was issued a medical report for treatment and was awaiting the results of a scan when he passed.
Meanwhile, the Edo State NSCDC spokesperson, Efosa Ogbebor, denied the allegations, stating that their officers were only present at the hotel to maintain security and did not engage in any physical altercation.
“Our men were on duty at the hotel to provide security and only intervened to separate a fight. They were not involved in any attack,” Ogbebor stated.
Ogbebor said NSCDC operatives were not arrested, that they voluntarily reported to the police for questioning.