The family of Taofeek Azeez, a 40-year-old man, is calling for justice following his death while in police custody in Agbeye, located in the Odo-Otin Local Government Area of Osun State. Azeez was reportedly arrested by local vigilantes on allegations of stealing cocoa seeds and subsequently handed over to the police.

According to reports, Azeez was apprehended on a Wednesday and taken to the palace of the Alagbeye of Agbeye, where he was subjected to corporal punishment. A disturbing video has surfaced, showing him being paraded half-naked before being transferred to the police. His brother, Fatai Alimi, expressed deep concerns regarding the circumstances of Azeez's death, which he believes to be suspicious.

Alimi recounted that Azeez left home on Tuesday morning for the farm and was later informed of his arrest. "Before that, he was taken to the palace, where he was subjected to corporal punishment and stripped naked. It was surprising to hear that he had killed himself inside the cell; his death looks suspicious," Alimi stated. He emphasized that Azeez, a father of six and husband to three wives, also left behind an elderly mother who is now grieving the loss.

The Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident, stating that Azeez allegedly committed suicide while in custody. Ojelabi explained that after being arrested by the community, Azeez was taken to the local monarch, who directed that he be handed over to the police for further questioning. "A few hours later, when the officer went to check on him in the cell, he had committed suicide," Ojelabi said, adding that the officer in charge of the cell would be interrogated as part of the investigation.

Despite the police's assertion of suicide, the family remains unconvinced and is urging the Osun State Commissioner of Police to thoroughly investigate the events leading to Azeez's death. They are particularly troubled by the inconsistencies in the narrative, especially regarding the condition in which Azeez was found.

This incident has sparked outrage within the community, raising questions about police conduct and the treatment of individuals in custody. The family is determined to seek justice for Azeez, as they believe that the circumstances surrounding his death warrant a closer examination and accountability from law enforcement authorities.