Tragedy at Tiger Base: How Police Torture Allegedly Killed 32-Year-Old Japheth Njoku in Custody

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has called for the immediate shutdown of the Imo State Anti-Kidnapping Unit, widely known as “Tiger Base,” following disturbing revelations surrounding the death of a detainee, Japheth Njoku. The 32-year-old, who had been in custody since March 2025, reportedly died from torture on May 6 while being held by operatives of the notorious police unit.

Speaking to the press, RULAAC Executive Director Okechukwu Nwanguma described Tiger Base as a “notorious torture chamber masquerading as a police unit” and demanded its closure and a thorough investigation into its officers for alleged extrajudicial killings, torture, illegal detention, and extortion.

Japheth Njoku, according to his family and friends, was a hardworking and peaceful man, recently married and employed at Alaba Market in Owerri for over ten years. His ordeal began in March when he was arrested over a minor cigarette theft allegation—a case that was quickly resolved after discussions with the complainant. However, just before his anticipated release, new accusations emerged.

A trader, Mrs. Oluchi Obiagwu, suddenly accused Japheth of causing N15 million in losses over four years—a claim that had never been reported or substantiated. She was said to have used her relative, Inspector Barnabas, a serving police officer, to get the case transferred to Tiger Base.

Once in their custody, things took a darker turn. Japheth was reportedly abducted from the gate of the Area Command after being cleared of the initial theft charge. According to RULAAC’s findings, he was taken to Tiger Base, where he was allegedly subjected to prolonged torture. His captors reportedly demanded he confess to crimes he didn’t commit while simultaneously pressuring his family to pay millions in exchange for his release. After reducing their demand to N4 million, the beatings and threats continued.

On May 6, 2025, Japheth died in custody. Rather than notify his family, the police quietly deposited his body at the Federal University Teaching Hospital morgue in Owerri. For days, his family was deceived into believing he was still alive, even bringing food to the station—food officers allegedly accepted despite knowing Japheth was already dead.

“The story of Japheth Njoku is not an isolated case,” Nwanguma said. “It highlights a systemic failure of Nigeria’s policing structure—where those meant to protect lives turn torture into routine and justice into a privilege for the rich.”

RULAAC has issued a five-point demand to address the matter:

1. Immediate closure and investigation of Tiger Base, led by the National Human Rights Commission and Police Service Commission.
2. Arrest and prosecution of all officers involved, particularly Inspector Barnabas, for their roles in alleged torture, extortion, and the murder of Japheth Njoku.
3. Public acknowledgment and reparations for Japheth’s family, including an official apology from the Nigerian Police Force.
4. Establishment of independent judicial oversight for all police detention centres across the country.
5. Comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s policing system, rooted in the principles of human rights, the rule of law, and accountability.