Bayelsa Govt Takes Over Probe Into Death Of Peresuodei Abbah, Vows To Prosecute Culprits

The Bayelsa State Government has assured the family and community of the late Peresuodei Ondutimi Abbah that justice will be served in the unfortunate incident surrounding his death, as investigations into the matter reach an advanced stage.

In a press statement issued by the Office of the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Biriyai Dambo, SAN, the government extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and the Amassoma Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area.

The statement revealed that Governor Senator Douye Diri has directed the Ministry of Justice to collaborate closely with the Nigeria Police Force, Bayelsa State Command, and other security agencies to conduct a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation.

“While investigations are at an advanced stage, including successfully obtaining critical information and statements from potential witnesses, we assure you that the Government of Bayelsa State will leave no stone unturned in effectively investigating to unearth the truth in this matter,” the statement read.

It further noted that upon conclusion of the probe, the Office of the Attorney-General will take over the case for prosecution of anyone found culpable.

As earlier reported by NaijaChoice News, the 24-year-old Peresuodei, also known as Patrick Peresuodei, was arrested on January 15, 2026, alongside his younger brother, Destiny Peresuodei, aged 22, both from Amassoma Community. The arrest was allegedly orchestrated by a Yenagoa-based blogger, Bodmas Prince Kemepadei, who accused the duo of making threats to his life via a Facebook post. Kemepadei reportedly arrived at their residence with personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

According to a separate press release from the Bayelsa State Police Command, the suspects were handed over to the police, where statements were taken. However, Peresuodei was observed to be incoherent and was subsequently taken to the police clinic for medical examination and treatment. They were later released to a family member, Charles Edure.

Tragically, about two weeks later, on January 30, 2026, Peresuodei passed away, sparking widespread allegations of torture while in custody. His brother, Destiny, accused security operatives of inflicting injuries on Peresuodei, leading to breathing difficulties that ultimately caused his death.

The police, in their statement, denied any involvement in the alleged murder and emphasized that the command should not be dragged into social media speculations. They have since launched a manhunt for Kemepadei and his associates, while commencing their own investigation into the viral videos circulating online about the incident.

The death has ignited protests in Bayelsa, with youths taking to the streets to demand justice for the deceased, whom they claim died from injuries sustained during the assault and detention. Kemepadei, however, has defended himself, sharing a video from the victim’s sister purportedly confirming that Peresuodei was in good health while in police custody a day after his arrest.

The Attorney-General’s office urged the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and refrain from actions that could prejudice the ongoing investigations or heighten tensions in the state.