The Concerned Youth Alliance for National Development has condemned the death of a 52-year-old woman, Titilayo, who reportedly collapsed and died shortly after her arraignment at the Federal High Court in Benin City, Edo State.
In a statement issued by its convener, Afolayan Timi, the group described the incident as tragic and called for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death while in the custody of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
According to the group, the deceased was initially arrested by the Edo State Task Force before being handed over to the NDLEA over allegations involving the sale of a substance suspected to be cannabis.
“Available accounts indicate that the deceased was initially arrested by the Edo State Task Force and later handed over to the NDLEA over allegations relating to the sale of a substance suspected to be cannabis,” the statement noted.
The group said eyewitnesses reported that the woman appeared visibly unwell when she was brought to court for arraignment, raising concerns about her condition prior to the proceedings.
“Witnesses present in court alleged that she appeared visibly unwell when brought for arraignment,” it added.
While reacting to the development, the NDLEA Edo State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, denied negligence, insisting that the deceased walked into the courtroom unaided and that only an autopsy could determine the actual cause of death.
However, the group said the conflicting accounts surrounding the incident make it imperative for authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent probe.
“A Nigerian citizen has died in the process of being prosecuted by the state. This alone demands the highest level of scrutiny, transparency, and accountability,” the statement said.
Citing constitutional provisions, the group stressed that the state has a duty of care to individuals in custody, including ensuring their safety, dignity and access to medical care.
“The state bears a duty of care to every person in its custody, including access to medical attention, humane treatment, and protection of life pending trial.”
It also referenced relevant sections of the Constitution and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, noting that prolonged detention without proper medical attention or due process raises serious legal concerns.
The group further recalled a previous incident in Edo North in October 2025, where a teenager, Emmanuel Monday George, reportedly died during an NDLEA operation, describing both cases as troubling.
“When viewed alongside the recent courtroom death… these events raise troubling questions about operational standards, supervision, and safeguards for the protection of human life,” it stated.
The alliance called for a series of immediate actions, including an independent investigation, a coroner’s inquest, and the suspension of the NDLEA Edo State Commander pending the outcome of findings.
“A fully independent and transparent investigation… a Coroner’s Inquest and autopsy… and the immediate suspension of Mitchell Ofoyeju pending the outcome of investigations,” it demanded.
The group also urged authorities to review detention and arraignment procedures nationwide and ensure accountability for any officer found culpable.
Reaffirming its position, the alliance stressed that the justice system must protect the rights and dignity of all citizens, including those facing criminal allegations.
“The courtroom must remain a place of justice, not the site of preventable tragedy,” the statement added.
The group expressed solidarity with the family of the deceased and insisted that justice must be served.
