An atmosphere of tension has enveloped Lokoja following the killing of a young graduate, Aminu Lawal, as the Kogi State Police Command deepens its investigation amid mounting public concern over the handling of the case.
Lawal, a recent graduate of the University of Maiduguri who was preparing for the National Youth Service Corps scheme, was reportedly murdered under disturbing circumstances, triggering widespread outrage among residents.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, said the command had commenced a comprehensive investigation into the incident, insisting that due process would be followed.
She refuted claims circulating in some quarters that law enforcement authorities were being pressured to release a suspect linked to the case, assuring that the command remained focused on uncovering the truth.
“There is no external influence on our investigation. We are committed to ensuring justice is served, and the outcome will be made known in due course,” she said.
The incident dates back to March 18, when the deceased reportedly left his residence in the Otokiti area to carry out his routine commercial tricycle operations but failed to return home, prompting an immediate search by family members.
Tragedy struck the next day when his body was discovered in a remote area near the Zone 8 axis, opposite the Central Bank in Lokoja.
Eyewitness accounts indicated that the victim showed signs of brutal violence, raising suspicion of a calculated attack. His tricycle was said to be missing as of the time his remains were found.
The case later took a new twist after members of the community reportedly conducted their own inquiry, which pointed to a man identified as Garuba, believed to have had contact with the deceased shortly before his disappearance.
Security operatives subsequently apprehended the suspect, who was initially held by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps before the matter was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further action.
Meanwhile, residents have expressed apprehension over alleged attempts to compromise the case, urging authorities to ensure that justice is not derailed.
A community source described the killing as heartbreaking, noting that the victim had endured significant challenges to complete his education, only to lose his life in such a tragic manner.
Calls have continued to grow for a transparent and thorough investigation that will bring all perpetrators to justice and reassure the public of the integrity of the process.
