The Edo State Police Command has taken four officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps into custody over their alleged involvement in the assault and subsequent death of a Bolt driver, Henry Osemwenkhia, in Benin City.
Confirming the arrests on Thursday, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Moses Yamu, disclosed that investigations were ongoing to uncover the details surrounding the tragic incident.
Osemwenkhia had reportedly filed a complaint at the New Etete Police Station on February 4, 2025, claiming that he was attacked by NSCDC personnel and some individuals following a disagreement at De Kaso Hotel on Limit Road, Benin City.
“The deceased had taken some passengers to the hotel when an argument broke out between him and a young man. He stated that the young man’s friends, along with NSCDC personnel, assaulted him and deflated his car tyres,” Yamu said.
According to Yamu, the Bolt driver was given a medical report for treatment. However, he was later found dead in his home the following day while waiting for the result of a medical scan.
“We received a report that he was found dead in his house on February 5. His body has since been deposited at the hospital for further examination,” Yamu added.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police has ordered a comprehensive investigation, assuring that the command is committed to ensuring justice is served.
Reacting to the allegation, the Edo State NSCDC spokesperson, Efosa Ogbebor, denied any wrongdoing by their officers, insisting that they were only present at the hotel to maintain peace and did not participate in any physical assault.
“Our men were deployed to the hotel for security purposes and only stepped in to break up a fight. They did not attack anyone,” Ogbebor said.
He also dismissed claims that the NSCDC personnel were arrested, clarifying that they voluntarily went to the police station for questioning.
In response to the incident, Bolt drivers in Edo State staged a protest on Thursday, calling for justice for their late colleague.
The protesters, who gathered at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Secretariat in Edo State, carried placards with messages such as “Enough of brutality by security agencies,” “Bolt drivers are not slaves,” and “Justice for Henry Osemwenkhia.”
Speaking on behalf of the protesting drivers, Festus Nwanbuzo, described Osemwenkhia as a peaceful and law-abiding individual.
He urged the authorities to conduct a transparent investigation and ensure accountability.
“We want justice. Henry was a peaceful driver who never looked for trouble. We won’t rest until those responsible are brought to book,” Nwanbuzo said.
The police have promised a detailed investigation into the case, while Osemwenkhia’s body awaits an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
