A High Court in Akwa Ibom State has sentenced a police officer, Sergeant Goodnews Akpan, to death by hanging over the torture and killing of a suspect while serving with the Anti-Kidnapping Squad in Uyo.

According to reports, the judgment was delivered on Monday, May 25, 2026, by Justice Nsemeke Daniel, who found the officer guilty of torturing and murdering a suspect arrested over a bailable offence on November 19, 2023.

The case has drawn widespread attention amid growing concerns over police brutality and human rights violations in Nigeria.

Reacting to the judgment, activist Da Zion Umoh described the ruling as a victory for justice and condemned acts of torture and unlawful detention by security operatives.

He also alleged that the convicted officer was associated with the late former police officer, CSP Ekene Nwosu, whom he accused of unlawfully incarcerating residents of Akwa Ibom State and demanding bribes from detainees.

Umoh further claimed that several petitions had previously been submitted to relevant authorities, including the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, the Police Service Commission, the National Assembly, and the Senate, over alleged abuses linked to the former officer.

He maintained that torture and police brutality remain serious violations of human rights and urged law enforcement agencies to uphold professionalism and accountability in the discharge of their duties.

The judgment is expected to renew public discussions on police reforms, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights in Nigeria.