Nigeria’s top police official, Inspector-General Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has mandated a comprehensive investigation into the troubling disappearance of two women, Afiba Tandoh from Ghana and her Nigerian companion, last seen in April 2024.
The case has taken a grim turn, with fears that they may have been abducted and murdered in Abia State, southeastern Nigeria.
In a recent development, the Nigerian Police Force’s spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed on June 10, 2024, that the Inspector-General’s investigative team will also scrutinize the circumstances surrounding the death of Andrew Ochekwo, the primary suspect in the case, who died in police custody.
The two women had traveled from Port Harcourt to Aba, the capital of Abia State, to meet businessman Ochekwo, an acquaintance made through Facebook.
Rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu has been closely monitoring the situation and alleges that the women were kidnapped shortly after their arrival.
Following Ochekwo’s arrest, a body was discovered at his residence in Aba. He later died en route to Abuja, reportedly while attempting to flee police custody.
The Nigerian Police Force’s spokesperson stated:
“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has directed the Monitoring Unit to conduct a thorough and high-powered investigation into the suspected murder of one Andrew Ochekwo.
This directive comes amid the numerous allegations, arguments, and counterarguments surrounding the case, which also involves the disappearance of two ladies, Celine and Afiba after their trip to visit the said Andrew in Aba, Abia State, for which he was alleged to be responsible.
In light of the public interest and the gravity of the allegations, the IGP has deemed it necessary to institute a meticulous investigation into the roles played by the team which carried out the initial investigation in Abia State, and the Force Intelligence Department Intelligence Response Team (IGP-IRT), to unravel the veritable facts of the matter. The Monitoring Unit has been given a two-week timeframe to complete its investigation and present a comprehensive report.
The Inspector General of Police assures that this case will be handled with the utmost professionalism and integrity, urging all well-meaning members of the public and all stakeholders to remain calm and allow the investigation process to proceed without interference.
Similarly, all persons/groups with relevant information regarding this case are encouraged to come forward and assist with the investigation, and all such information provided will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality, reach us via email at [email protected], and our social media accounts.
The Nigeria Police Force appreciates the cooperation and support of the public and hereby reassures that timely updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.”
The Nigerian Police Force is calling for public assistance in the investigation and promises to maintain confidentiality for those who come forward with information. The case continues to unfold, with the nation awaiting further updates.