The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 44-year-old popular content creator widely known as Odogwu Asaba over allegations that he raped a 21-year-old woman in Asaba, Delta State.
The arrest followed a petition submitted by Warri-based human rights activist, Comrade Israel Joe, who called on security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the young woman’s death and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrest on Wednesday while responding to inquiries from journalists.
“It’s confirmed, but I am in a meeting now,” Edafe said, without providing further details, adding that the Command would continue its investigation into the matter.
According to information available, the suspect was arrested on Tuesday at his residence in Asaba by operatives of the Delta State Police Command. He is currently in police custody while detectives carry out further investigations into the allegations.
The petition alleged that the 21-year-old woman, whose identity has been withheld, was invited to Asaba by the suspect under the pretext of offering assistance. Investigators are now examining allegations that she was sexually assaulted and the circumstances surrounding her subsequent death.
Police authorities have not officially disclosed the cause of the woman’s death or confirmed reports circulating on social media, insisting that investigations are still ongoing.
Human rights activist, Comrade Israel Joe, commended the Delta State Police Command for what he described as its prompt response in arresting the suspect.
He urged investigators to conduct a thorough, transparent and professional investigation to ensure that justice is served for the deceased and her family.
The case has generated widespread reactions across social media, with many Nigerians calling for a comprehensive investigation and urging the police to establish all the facts surrounding the incident.
The Delta State Police Command has appealed to members of the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information that could prejudice ongoing investigations.
Police said further details would be made available as the investigation progresses and assured residents of the Command’s commitment to ensuring that anyone found responsible for any criminal offence is prosecuted in accordance with the law.
