A Nasarawa woman, Patience Ashenenye, was tragically killed in an accident involving a speeding police officer. Her family rejected a N100,000 burial offer, demanding justice instead. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for accountability within the police force, highlighting systemic issues in Nigeria’s law enforcement.
A tragic incident in Nasarawa has drawn outrage after 35-year-old Patience Ashenenye was killed in an accident involving a police officer. Ashenenye was riding a commercial motorcycle with her three-month-old son when the officer, reportedly speeding in a government-owned Hilux, collided with them. The motorcycle rider, Tasiu Mohammed, was also injured, while Ashenenye's son sustained a broken leg. Despite immediate medical attention, Ashenenye died shortly after arriving at the Federal University of Lafia Teaching Hospital.
In the aftermath, the police offered Ashenenye's family N100,000 to cover burial expenses, which they rejected, insisting that their priority is seeking justice for her death. George Akube, Ashenenye’s brother, expressed his frustration, stating, “The policeman survived, but my sister did not. Her son is now in the hospital.”
The Nasarawa State Police Command has initiated an investigation, but there are no confirmed details about potential charges against the officer involved. Police spokesman Ramhan Nansel conveyed condolences and pledged to cover medical expenses for the injured, yet many Nigerians have taken to social media to voice their discontent.
Reactions on social media have been overwhelmingly critical, with users expressing disbelief over the N100,000 offer. Comments ranged from calls for the family to pursue legal action for manslaughter to expressions of sadness and outrage over the perceived negligence of police. Some Nigerians urged the family to sue for substantial damages, while others lamented the broader issues with the police force, describing it as a menace to society.
