Tensions are rising in Wechaiu as youths accuse the police of involvement in the death of local resident Abu Tijani, who went missing before being reported arrested and later pronounced dead.
According to residents, Tijani was last seen several days ago before disappearing under unclear circumstances. Family members and community leaders say they were informed by authorities that he had been arrested by police. However, shockwaves spread when news emerged that he had died while in custody.
Some sources disclosed that Tijani was arrested in connection with the ongoing land dispute between Kendeu and Wechaiu in the Wa West area. The conflict, which has simmered for years over ownership and usage rights, has occasionally escalated into confrontations between the communities. Tijani was reportedly picked up amid heightened tensions related to the dispute, though details of any specific allegations against him remain unclear.
Youth groups in the area have strongly condemned the police, alleging foul play and extrajudicial killing. “Abu Tijani was taken by the police alive. Now he is dead. We demand answers and justice,” said one youth leader who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal.
Protests have begun to build, with young people calling for a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Tijani’s arrest and death. Some residents claim there were no prior public records or official statements about any charges against him, further fueling suspicions of misconduct.
Police authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the incident. Community leaders are urging calm while demanding an independent probe, including a post-mortem examination, to determine the exact cause of death. Rights groups in the region have also taken interest in the case, describing it as another instance that raises concerns about custody deaths and police accountability.
By: Adil Fuseini
