Bolt driver dies after alleged assault by NSCDC officers in Edo
The Edo State Police Command has arrested four personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps over the alleged assault and subsequent death of a Bolt driver, Henry Osemwenkhia, in Benin City.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Moses Yamu, confirmed the arrests on Thursday, stating that investigations were underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
Osemwenkhia had reportedly lodged a complaint at the New Etete Police Station on February 4, 2025, alleging that he was beaten by NSCDC officers and some individuals after an altercation at De Kaso Hotel along Limit Road, Benin City.
“The deceased had taken some passengers to the hotel when an argument ensued between him and a young man. He claimed that the young man’s friends, along with NSCDC personnel, attacked him and even deflated his car tyres,” Yamu said.
According to the police, Osemwenkhia was issued a medical report for treatment, but he was later found dead in his home the following day while awaiting the results of a scan.
“We received information that he passed away in his house on February 5. His body has been deposited at the hospital for further examination,” Yamu added.
He disclosed that the Edo State Commissioner of Police had ordered a thorough investigation into the matter, assuring that justice would be served.
However, the Edo State NSCDC spokesperson, Efosa Ogbebor, denied the allegations, insisting that their officers were only at the hotel to maintain security and did not engage in any physical altercation.
“Our men were on duty at the hotel to provide security and only intervened to separate a fight. They were not involved in any attack,” Ogbebor stated.
He also refuted claims that NSCDC operatives were arrested, saying they voluntarily reported to the police for questioning.
Meanwhile, Bolt drivers in Edo State staged a protest on Thursday, demanding justice for their late colleague. The demonstrators, who gathered at the premises of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State Council, carried placards with inscriptions such as “Enough of brutality by security agencies,” “Bolt drivers are not slaves,” and “Justice for Henry Osemwenkhia.”
Speaking on behalf of the group, Festus Nwanbuzo described the deceased as a peaceful individual and called for a transparent investigation into the incident.
“We want justice. Henry was a law-abiding driver who never looked for trouble. We won’t stop until those responsible are held accountable,” he said.
The police assured that the matter would be thoroughly investigated, while Osemwenkhia’s remains await an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
