The Adamawa State Police Command has denied allegations of torture, coercion, and mistreatment made in a viral video by one of the suspects in the ongoing investigation into the murder of Mr. Thomas Godwin, popularly known as “Zamfara.”
In the video, Umar Ibrahim, also known as Sarkin Pawa of Kala’a, claims he and others were arrested, tortured, starved, and forced to confess to involvement in the high-profile killing. The allegations have sparked public concern and widespread attention on social media.
Responding in a statement, Police Public Relations Officer SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje described the claims as “false and misleading,” asserting that all procedures followed during the investigation adhered strictly to international best practices and legal standards.
According to the police, nine male suspects were arrested in connection with the case. They include:
1. Sunday Terrang
2. Umar Ibrahim
3. Sadiq Ishaku
4. Solomon Gideon
5. Ahmed Aminu
6. Danlami Ali
7. Godwin Chakukuyada
8. Akacha Daniel Samari
9. Ibrahim Bakari
Following preliminary investigations, the suspects and case file were transferred to the Force Intelligence Rapid Response Team (FIRRT) in Abuja for further investigation. The police emphasized that all statements made by the suspects were recorded in the presence of representatives from the State Legal Aid Council and that the process was video recorded to ensure transparency.
“The Command views the viral video as a deliberate attempt to mislead the public, garner undue sympathy, and tarnish the image of the police,” Nguroje said. He urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims that could interfere with the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
The case continues to attract public attention, with many awaiting the outcome of the police investigation and potential charges.