Joseph Onminyi, father of 19-year-old Peter Onminyi, is seeking justice for his son’s alleged murder by men from the Operation Zenda unit of the Benue State Police Command.
Peter was killed in front of his family on May 19, 2024, at 8 pm while they were having dinner at their residence in Welfare Quarters, Makurdi.
“I am Mr. Joseph Onminyi, the father of the deceased, late Peter Onminyi, who was shot to death by the police on May 19, 2024, in my own house,” Onminyi said. “No reason was given by the police for their actions. They didn’t ask or tell anyone about the offence he committed; rather, they just killed him while he was eating in the dining room.”
Onminyi described his son as a complete gentleman who hadn’t committed any offense warranting his killing. He alleged that the police invaded their residence, shot his son dead, took away his corpse, and removed household items, including a radio, refrigerator, and motorcycles.
The police spokesperson, SP Catherine Anene, claimed the case involved a suspected kidnapper and armed robber. “I think the police went there to arrest him, and during the process, one of the boys exchanged gunfire with the police, and in the process, he was killed,” she said.
Onminyi has filed a case for breach of human rights against the police, accusing them of delaying the case in court. “They have refused to appear in court, which means the police believe they are above the law and can disregard the judicial process,” he said.
Onminyi appealed to Nigeria and the international community to address police brutality against innocent citizens. His family has been sleeping outside their home since the incident, and he demands the release of his son’s body for a decent burial and the return of their belongings.
