A traditional ruler and several others have been detained in Bayelsa State after a 47-year-old farmer died following a public flogging reportedly ordered in a riverine community, according to residents and police.
The incident happened last Tuesday in Ekowe, located in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. Residents said the farmer, Emi Sigah, had been accused of attempted rape. According to community accounts, he was flogged across multiple compounds on the directive of the traditional ruler, Chief Andy Godwil Toboro. Police confirmed that the monarch, members of his council, and other suspects are now in custody as homicide investigators examine the case.
Witnesses said Sigah, a father of two, was instructed to receive 10 strokes of the cane in each of 12 compounds. During the punishment, he reportedly showed signs of severe distress and begged to stop, saying he could not continue.
Some residents claimed the traditional ruler insisted the flogging continue, alleging that Sigah was pretending to be weak, though these claims have not been independently confirmed.
The man later died, leading to confusion in the community before police arrived at the scene.
Authorities said the body has been taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa for an autopsy.
The Bayelsa State Police Command stated that its homicide unit has taken over the investigation, adding that those arrested are cooperating. A police spokesperson did not immediately provide further details regarding the allegations or potential charges.
The incident has also renewed attention to prior complaints against the traditional ruler. In a petition sent to Governor Douye Diri, the state police commissioner, and the local government chairman, residents accused Chief Toboro of being autocratic and heavy-handed in his leadership.
The petition, signed by more than 100 indigenes, including Woriayibapiri Darusah and Godwin Flint, also raised concerns about alleged financial mismanagement. The governor’s office has yet to respond publicly.
Residents said the death has heightened tensions in Ekowe, with some people fleeing out of fear of arrests or reprisals. Although some have begun returning, fears of retaliation persist.
Community members have urged the state government and security agencies to step in quickly to prevent further unrest, warning that the deceased’s relatives might seek revenge if the situation is not properly handled.
Police say investigations are ongoing.
