By Bukola Olamona

The family of Tolu Bobade, a 17-year-old who allegedly died in police custody in Ifon, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, has petitioned the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Aiyedun Olusegun Odusola, demanding justice over what they described as his tragic and untimely death.

In the petition dated February 17, 2025, and signed by Dupe Bobade on behalf of the family, they called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Tolu’s arrest, detention, and eventual death.

The petition, titled “Petition for Justice in the Case of Late Master Tolu Bobade,” accused the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Ifon Division, Isadare Funminiyi, and other officers of subjecting the deceased to severe torture, which allegedly led to his death on February 15, 2025.

According to the family, Tolu was arrested on February 14, 2025, on the orders of the DPO and was allegedly tortured in detention until he succumbed to his injuries the following day.

The petition further claimed that in a bid to cover up the incident, the police moved Tolu’s lifeless body to Adelabu Hospital in Ifon, where it was reportedly rejected before later being taken to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Owo and deposited at the morgue without the family’s knowledge.

Citing the Anti-Torture Act of 2017, which criminalises torture and prescribes severe penalties for offenders, the family also referenced the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015, which guarantees humane treatment of detainees.

The family, in their petition, made the following demands: An immediate and thorough investigation into the circumstances of Tolu’s arrest, detention, and death.

“Prosecution of all officers involved, including DPO Isadare Funminiyi, in line with the law.”

They expressed hope that justice would be served, not only in memory of Tolu but also to deter future human rights violations.

The petition was also copied to the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN) and Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi

It would be recalled that following Tolu’s death, angry youths in Ifon staged a violent protest, setting the local police station ablaze.