The death of a 15-year-old boy, Busang Ayuka, following an alleged assault while in the custody of Taraba State Marshal operatives has triggered widespread outrage and calls for justice across Taraba State.
Busang, a resident of Angwan Alfa in Serti B, Gashaka Local Government Area, reportedly died at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jalingo, after sustaining severe injuries allegedly inflicted during his detention in Baruwa.
The tragic incident has raised serious concerns among residents and civil society groups over the conduct of security personnel and the accountability of enforcement agencies in the state.
According to reports, the situation began after a dispute between the teenager and a friend over missing items, including an MP3 player and a power bank.
The matter was reportedly reported to the Taraba State Marshal office, leading to Busang’s arrest.
Family members have accused the operatives of subjecting the teenager to brutal assault while in custody—an allegation the agency has yet to officially clarify.
Speaking amid grief, the deceased’s mother, Mrs Hasena Ayuka, recounted the events leading to her son’s death. She said her son was arrested on a Sunday and later taken to a hospital in a critical condition.
“I was asked to come to the hospital, and when I got there, my son was lying half-dead. His neck looked broken, his body was swollen, and he couldn’t speak,” she said.
She dismissed claims that her son suffered from an ulcer while in custody, insisting he had no prior health condition.
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“From that moment, he never regained consciousness until he died. We just want justice. No one has the right to take his life,” she added.
Busang was initially treated at a local hospital in Baruwa before being referred to FMC Jalingo due to the severity of his condition.
As of now, the exact circumstances surrounding the alleged assault remain unclear, with no official report detailing what transpired during his detention or whether proper procedures were followed.
The incident has intensified demands for an independent and transparent investigation, with residents urging the Taraba State Government and relevant authorities to ensure accountability.
Community leaders and rights advocates argue that the case highlights deeper issues regarding the treatment of civilians during enforcement operations and the urgent need for reforms within security agencies.
Responding to the allegations, the Commandant of the Taraba State Marshal, retired Commissioner of Police Agyole Asenya Abeh, stated that the agency operates within the law and emphasizes respect for human rights.
He assured that any officer found culpable would be held accountable, adding that the matter should not be prejudged pending the outcome of investigations.
The Nigeria Police Force, which holds the statutory responsibility to investigate such cases, has yet to issue an official statement or confirm whether an inquiry has commenced.
As pressure mounts, many Nigerians are closely watching the case, calling for justice for Busang and stronger oversight of law enforcement agencies across the country.
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