Outrage spreads across the Niger Delta as activists accuse influential figures of abuse of power, police complicity, and a cover-up following the death of Patrick Peresuodei.

The Ijaw Youths of the Niger Delta have demanded justice over the alleged killing of Patrick Peresuodei, a young Ijaw man who reportedly died after being brutally assaulted by Bodmas (Bodams) Prince Kemepadei, an influential figure said to be linked to Tantita Security Services, owned by ex-militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.

Kemepadei is described as a powerful actor in the Ijaw community, serving as Chairman of the Izon Cultural Heritage Center, a member of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and the founder of a spiritual centre known as the Temple of Woyin.

How the conflict began

Trouble reportedly started after Patrick Peresuodei repeatedly criticised Kemepadei on social media, accusing him of using tradition and spirituality to manipulate and exploit Ijaw youths rather than empowering them economically. Patrick openly challenged Kemepadei to use his influence for development instead of what he described as deception.

On December 21, 2025, Patrick made a controversial Facebook post referencing an AK-47, which many observers described as sarcastic and not a literal threat. He followed this with another post on January 14, 2026, again criticising Kemepadei’s spiritual activities and accusing him of misleading young people under the guise of African spirituality.

Alleged arrest, torture, and death

According to reports, on January 15, 2026, Kemepadei allegedly launched a manhunt for Patrick. With the help of Oyintari Agusi, described as a local chief priest, Patrick was reportedly apprehended.

Witnesses allege that Patrick was severely beaten with rods and a cutlass, sustaining catastrophic injuries, including damage to his neck and spinal cord. He was later dumped at a police station in Bayelsa State in critical condition.

On January 20, a police Investigating Police Officer (IPO) reportedly contacted Patrick’s sister to come and take him home. By then, Patrick was barely responsive and unable to speak. He was rushed from a General Hospital to a Teaching Hospital and eventually to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), where doctors confirmed that his neck and spinal cord were broken.

Patrick Peresuodei died on January 29, 2026, from complications related to the injuries.

Allegations of cover-up

Following his death, outrage intensified amid allegations that Bodmas Kemepadei was being shielded from arrest, with some activists claiming that certain police units in Bayelsa State operate as an extension of Tompolo’s private detention system—an accusation that authorities have not officially addressed.

Ijaw Youth Council protests

In response, Dr. Alaye Tari Theophilus, President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, led a peaceful protest to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Yenagoa, demanding a full investigation, the arrest of all those allegedly involved, and justice for Patrick Peresuodei.

Protesters warned that failure to act would further erode trust in law enforcement and deepen anger among Ijaw youths already frustrated by perceived injustice and impunity.