How Lagos Police Killed My Only Son When He Was Doing His NYSC-Mother Narrates
The tragic death of 24-year-old Gafar Wahab Adeniji, a promising National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, has shaken his family and community
to the core. Gafar reportedly succumbed to complications arising from inhaling teargas during the demolition of structures in the Otto community, a slum in Lagos Mainland Local Government Area, and it ssurroundings.
According to reports, policemen accompanied a group of alleged land speculators to the community on March 22, firing teargas canisters to disperse residents and facilitate the demolition process.
The chaotic scene resulted in the destruction of numerous structures and the displacement of many residents. Tragically, Gafar, who was recuperating at home alone, fell victim to the teargas and lost consciousness.
His grieving mother, Kuburat Adeniji,
recounted the heart-wrenching ordeal, revealing how she rushed home upon hearing about the demolition, only to find her son struggling to breathe amidst the thick tear gas fumes. Despite frantic efforts to seek medical assistance, Gafar’s condition deteriorated rapidly. He was eventually transferred to Sagamu Teaching hospital in Ogun State but Tragically passed away en route.
Gafar’s untimely demise has left his family devastated, particularly his mother, who described him as her only child and a gentle soul. She expressed her helplessness in seeking justice for her son’s death, lamenting the absence of support in her time of need.
Community leader, Mr. Musbau Agbodemu, condemned the demolition as a gross violation of human rights, alleging that it was carried out without prior notice and under police supervision.
He highlighted the recurring threats and acts of violence faced by the community, calling for accountability and justice for Gafar’s death. Despite attempts to reach the police spokesperson for comment, no response has been forthcoming, leaving unanswered questions surrounding the circumstances of the tragic incident. As the community mourns the loss of a promising young life, the call for justice grows louder, demanding accountability for Gafar’s untimely death.
(Daily Trust)