The Imo State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that its operatives tortured a suspected member and financier of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), identified as 49-year-old Magnus Ejiogu, to death while in custody.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, the command described the claims as untrue and aimed at tarnishing the image of the Nigeria Police Force. He said Ejiogu, popularly known as “Emu,” was from Obudi Agwa in Oguta Local Government Area and was accused of sponsoring and coordinating several violent attacks in the state.
The police alleged that Ejiogu played a major role in the assassination of the traditional ruler of Abudi Agwa, Eze Ignatius Asor, in 2022. He was also said to have been involved in the attack on the Agwa Police Station that same year, which left five officers dead, including a pregnant policewoman.
Okoye explained that investigations into Ejiogu’s activities had been completed, and his prosecution was approved for October 20, 2025. However, his arraignment was delayed due to the ongoing judiciary strike.
The police spokesperson further disclosed that while in detention awaiting arraignment, Ejiogu reportedly fell ill on October 23, 2025. He was taken to the Police Clinic in Amakohia, Owerri, and later transferred to the Federal University Teaching Hospital (FUTH), Owerri, for further treatment. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead by a doctor, and his remains were deposited in the hospital mortuary for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
Okoye stated that Ejiogu was never tortured or denied legal or family access while in custody, adding that all procedures followed by the police were in line with professional standards and due process.
For transparency, the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has ordered the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department to investigate and confirm the medical reason for the suspect’s death.
The command urged the public to disregard unverified reports and assured that it remains committed to professionalism, accountability, and justice in carrying out its duties.