By Ayodele Oni
The family of Dada Yusuf, a 23-year-old man, is accusing the Ondo State Police Command of involvement in circumstances surrounding his death. The family claims it resulted from torture during his detention.
Yusuf’s family alleges that he succumbed to injuries sustained while in police custody, where he was reportedly subjected to harsh treatment by officers from the “Scorpion Squad” in Akure.
A relative, Afolabi Bisoye, revealed that Yusuf was arrested on August 31 by police operatives while en route to Akure.
According to Afolabi, the police detained and tortured him until he collapsed in custody.
The family was, thereafter, notified only after Yusuf had been transported to a hospital, where he was later referred to another facility for urgent medical care.
“Yusuf was unlawfully arrested and brutalized by the Scorpion Squad, led by Inspector Olayiya Kasim.
“He was beaten to the point of falling into a coma. Instead of ensuring his safety, the officers attempted to cover up the incident by taking him to the Police Clinic in Akure, where it was revealed that he had sustained a gunshot wound in the chest, allegedly inflicted while in police custody.
“Due to the severity of his condition, he was transferred to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo, where he spent several days on oxygen support. Tragically, Yusuf passed away on September 7, 2025.”
Afolabi urged authorities to secure justice for Yusuf, emphasizing: “This case demands accountability and justice for Yusuf Israel Dada, whose life was unjustly cut short by police brutality.”
Witnesses have reported that members of the Scorpion Squad appeared intoxicated during the incident, violently harassing both Yusuf and bystanders who attempted to intervene.
When approached for comment, Olushola Alayande, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO), refuted claims that Yusuf’s death was a result of torture.
He explained that Yusuf had developed a medical condition while in custody and was promptly taken to a hospital for treatment.
“The Ondo State Police Command categorically rejects the family’s claims. Our son died at the Federal Medical Centre while undergoing dialysis, which has no relation to torture. We practice the best ethics of law enforcement and do not condone torture,” Alayande asserted.
He confirmed that an investigation into the incident is underway, and the officers involved are currently under scrutiny.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered an investigation, and the findings will be made public.”
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