A'Ibom Court Sentences Police Sergeant to Death Over Custodial Torture, Murder

By Benjamin GBOR 

‎A High Court sitting in Akwa Ibom State has sentenced a police officer, Sgt. Goodnews Akpan, to death by hanging after finding him guilty of the torture and killing of a suspect while in custody.

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‎Delivering judgment on May 25, 2026, Justice Nsemeke Daniel ruled that the offence was committed on November 19, 2023, when the officer served under the Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Uyo. The victim, who was being investigated for a bailable offence, died following severe torture allegedly inflicted while in detention.

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‎The court established that the convict had been mentored within the police unit by the late CSP Ekene Nwosu, who was also referenced in court proceedings for alleged past abuses within the squad.

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‎Following the ruling, the court held that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt, leading to the imposition of the death penalty by hanging.

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‎The judgment has been described as a strong stance against police brutality and custodial abuse, with observers noting it as a reminder of the consequences of unlawful conduct by security operatives.

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‎Justice Daniel emphasised that the verdict was necessary to uphold justice and deter similar acts within law enforcement institutions.