Delta Police Clear Officers in Death of Okediachi Emeka, Autopsy Reveals Drug Complications
By Emmanuel Enebeli
ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Police Command has concluded its investigation into the death of Mr. Okediachi Emeka, whose demise on November 14, 2024, sparked allegations of police involvement.
An official statement issued on January 7, 2025, by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, confirmed that an autopsy has exonerated the police of any culpability in the matter.
According to SP Bright, the autopsy was conducted on December 7, 2024, with two pathologists—one chosen by the family of the deceased—carrying out the examination in the presence of some family members. The findings indicated that Mr. Emeka died from complications of hypertensive heart disease exacerbated by the presence of multiple pharmacological agents.
The toxicology report detailed the presence of substances such as tramadol, morphine, opium, diazepam, amitriptyline, and ethyl alcohol in the deceased’s system, which were linked to the medical complications that led to his death.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, had earlier promised a thorough investigation to address public concerns. In the January 7 statement, the CP reiterated the Command’s commitment to transparency and accountability, emphasizing the importance of the autopsy findings in clearing the officers involved.
CP Abaniwonda used the occasion to highlight the dangers of drug abuse, urging parents, guardians, and young people to avoid substances that pose significant risks to their health. “This case underscores the peril of abusing hard drugs, which can lead to severe health complications and untimely death,” the CP stated.
The Police Command expressed condolences to Mr. Emeka’s family while reaffirming its resolve to uphold justice and maintain public trust in its operations. The case has drawn significant public attention, but the autopsy findings are expected to lay to rest the controversy surrounding Mr. Emeka’s death.
