The Edo State Police Command has initiated a thorough investigation into the suspicious death of Fidelis Osaghae, an employee of Valchi Fast Food and Bar, who died under mysterious circumstances on July 29, 2024.
Fidelis Osaghae was reportedly summoned by his employer, Valentine Oyemike, in the early hours of the morning before his death. According to a statement from Police Public Relations Officer Moses Joel, the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for detailed scrutiny.
“The case has been classified as a homicide, not theft. The SCID’s homicide section is handling it to ensure a comprehensive investigation,” Joel confirmed. “We will release the findings to the public once the investigation concludes.”
Esther Osaghae, the deceased’s wife, has called for a thorough probe into her husband’s death, expressing deep concerns about the circumstances surrounding it. In an interview, Esther recounted her last communication with her husband, who video-called her around 1:30 am on the night of his death. Fidelis informed her that he would be returning home soon after being asked by his boss to bring something back to work.
When he failed to return by morning, Esther became worried and attempted to contact him without success. She later learned from Mr. Valentine that Fidelis was at a hospital, but when her elder sister arrived at Favour Hospital, she discovered Fidelis’ lifeless body in Valentine’s car. The hospital reportedly rejected the body as it was already deceased upon arrival.
Esther and her sister noticed unusual marks and injuries on the body, suggesting possible torture before death. This has led Esther to question the legitimacy of the circumstances leading to her husband’s death.
The Akin Fadeyi Foundation has intervened, filing a petition with the Inspector-General of Police requesting a detailed investigation into the case. The foundation alleges that local police in Auchi may have shown reluctance to investigate properly, possibly due to Mr. Valentine’s influence.
“The circumstances of Mr. Fidelis’ death are highly suspicious. We believe he was in Mr. Oyemike Valentine’s custody before his death,” stated Akin Fadeyi, Executive Director of the foundation. “There are concerns about potential interference and compromise by local authorities.”
Fadeyi added that the Inspector-General of Police has received the petition and is expected to ensure a swift and impartial investigation into the matter.
Valentine Oyemike, when contacted, declined to comment, citing an ongoing police inquiry. “I cannot make any comment at this time as I have been invited by the police,” he stated.
The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover the truth behind Fidelis Osaghae’s untimely death.
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