Tension heightened in Amassoma community following the tragic death of Patrick Peresuodei, a young man whose passing has sparked protests, public outrage, and calls for an urgent investigation into alleged police brutality and the circumstances surrounding his detention.
According to reports circulating on social media and within the community, the deceased was allegedly apprehended by security operatives and subjected to severe physical assault while in custody. He was reportedly released in critical condition and later died while being rushed to a hospital.
The incident has been widely linked to an alleged offensive Facebook post made by the deceased against Apostle Bodmas Prince Kemepadei, a cleric and youth leader in the area.
The situation triggered protests led by the Amassoma Youth Development Association (AYODA) Worldwide, in collaboration with the Southern Ijaw Federated Youth Council, the Ijaw Youth Council (Ogboin Clan), and other community stakeholders.
The protesting groups submitted petitions to His Royal Highness, Chief Godwin Akedesuo, and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), calling for the matter to be escalated to the Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State.
The youth groups are demanding accountability and justice, raising critical questions including:
i. Why would a citizen allegedly be beaten to death over a social media post?
ii. Which police unit or officers handled the arrest and detention?
i. Whether physical abuse is now a policing response to online expressions.
AYODA has issued a three-day ultimatum, demanding that Apostle Bodmas Prince Kemepadei present himself for legal proceedings, warning that failure to comply may lead to further lawful actions.
Response from Apostle Bodmas Prince Kemepadei:
In a statement released on 31 January 2026, Apostle Bodmas Prince Kemepadei denied all allegations linking him to the death of Patrick Peresuodei and described the incident as a tragic and unfortunate loss.
He stated that the deceased had been under police investigation following alleged threats to his life, criminal defamation, and cyberbullying. According to his account, the deceased allegedly made repeated online threats, including claims of intending to cause him physical harm.
Apostle Bodmas explained that he formally reported the matter to the Nigeria Police Force, Bayelsa Command, after which the deceased was arrested in Amassoma. He maintained that his intention was to pursue the matter through the courts, not to cause harm.
further stated that the police later informed him that the deceased was exhibiting signs of mental instability, allegedly linked to substance abuse prior to his arrest. Based on this, the police reportedly recommended bail for medical attention, and the deceased was released to family members.
The cleric emphasized that:
i. He had no physical contact with the deceased after the arrest.
ii. He did not visit or assault the deceased in police custody.
iii. Claims that he orchestrated or participated in the alleged assault are false and defamatory.
He disclosed that his legal team has been instructed to pursue defamation suits against individuals spreading what he described as false narratives, while also affirming that he has made himself available for police investigation.
Apostle Bodmas stated his willingness to be investigated or arrested if found culpable, stressing that he is “not bigger than the law,” and extended condolences to the bereaved family and the Amassoma community.
A video circulating online, reportedly featuring the deceased’s sister, presents a different perspective. While she reportedly confirmed that the deceased was in police custody and appeared stable after his arrest, she also alleged that Apostle Bodmas visited the station and assaulted the deceased; a claim the cleric strongly denies.
These conflicting narratives have deepened public concern and reinforced calls for an independent, transparent investigation to establish:
i. The exact condition of the deceased while in police custody?
ii. Whether excessive force was used?
iii. The role, if any, played by third parties?
iv. The circumstances surrounding his release and eventual death?
The case has drawn widespread attention across Bayelsa State and the Niger Delta, raising broader questions about police conduct, detainee rights, cybercrime complaints, and the use of force.
As of the time of filing this report, the Bayelsa State Police Command has yet to release a comprehensive public statement detailing its findings.
Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters emphasizes that all parties mentioned remain innocent until proven guilty, and urges relevant authorities to conduct a swift, impartial investigation to ensure justice for the deceased and clarity for the public.
NOTE: This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more verified information becomes available.