The Executive Director of Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), Okechukwu Nwanguma, said that the Anti-Cultism Unit in Imo State Police Command, known as Tiger Base Police, has again killed a Nigerian in custody known as Japhet Njoku.
This is another killing coming up after a serial investigation published by an Investigative Reporter, Juliana Francis, on the human rights violations going on at that particular police unit.
Nwanguma said: “We urgently call on human rights organisations, civil society actors, and kind-hearted individuals to support the grieving and indigent family of Mr. Japhet Njoku, who was brutally and unlawfully killed by operatives of the notorious Tiger Base, Owerri, on May 5, 2025.
“A Coroner’s Court sitting in Owerri has ordered an independent autopsy on the late Japhet Njoku as a crucial step towards justice. However, the autopsy, initially scheduled for June 27–28, could not be held due to the family’s inability to raise the sum of ₦350,000 required by their nominated pathologist.
“The court has now granted a final extension until July 31, 2025, and the autopsy must be conducted within this window. Japhet’s widow, Mrs. Augusta Njoku, and his brothers, who are of limited means, are struggling not only to raise this amount but also to care for his two-month-old baby. Their quest for justice is now at risk of being derailed by poverty.
“We therefore appeal to the public, friends of justice, and organisations committed to human rights to donate generously toward the cost of the autopsy. Your support can help ensure that the truth is uncovered, accountability is achieved, and justice is served.”
*For donations, use the following account details*
*Account details
*Account Name: People’s Rights Organisation*
BANK: *Unity bank*
Account No. *0058552430*
For further inquiries, please contact: Dr. C. C. Nwadigo
Principal Partner, People’s Rights Organisation
Phone No: +234 803 353 7909
Justice delayed must not become justice denied.
