Edo Police launch investigation into suspicious death of fast food worker Fidelis near Valchi

The Edo State Police Command has launched a thorough investigation into the suspicious death of Fidelis Osaghae, an employee of Valchi Fast Food and Bar who died under mysterious circumstances on July 29, 2024.

Fidelis Osaghae was reportedly summoned by his employer, Valentine Oyemike, in the early hours of the morning before his death. According to a statement by police spokesperson Moses Joel, the case has been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for detailed investigation.

“The case has been classified as murder and not theft. The SCID Homicide Unit is handling it to ensure a comprehensive investigation,” Joel confirmed. “We will make the results available to the public once the investigation is complete.”

Esther Osaghae, the wife of the deceased, called for a thorough investigation into her husband's death and expressed deep concern over the circumstances of the death. In an interview, Esther recounted her last communication with her husband, who contacted her via video call at about 1:30 am on the night of his death. Fidelis informed her that he would soon return home after his boss asked him to bring something to work.

When he did not return in the morning, Esther became worried and tried to contact him without success. She later learned from Mr. Valentine that Fidelis was in a hospital, but when her older sister arrived at Favour Hospital, she discovered Fidelis' lifeless body in Valentine's car. The hospital reportedly rejected the body because he was already dead on arrival.

Esther and her sister noticed unusual marks and injuries on the body, indicating possible torture before death. This caused Esther to question the legality of the circumstances that led to her husband's death.

The Akin Fadeyi Foundation has intervened and petitioned the Inspector General of Police demanding a detailed investigation into the case. The Foundation claims that the local police in Auchi may have been reluctant to properly investigate the case, possibly due to the influence of Mr Valentine.

“The circumstances of Mr. Fidelis' death are highly suspicious. We believe he was in the care of Mr. Oyemike Valentine prior to his death.” explained Akin Fadeyi, executive director of the foundation. “There are concerns about possible interference and interference by local authorities.”

Fadeyi added that the Inspector General of Police had received the petition and was expected to ensure a prompt and impartial investigation into the matter.

When contacted, Valentine Oyemike declined to comment, citing ongoing police investigations. “I cannot comment at this time as I have been invited by the police,” he explained.

Investigations continue as authorities attempt to uncover the truth behind Fidelis Osaghae’s untimely death.