Benue Teen Dies During EFCC Operation, Family Rejects Official Account, Demands Justice
The death of 17-year-old Atser Sesugh in Makurdi, Benue State, has renewed concerns about the right of children to life, survival, safeguarding, and protection. The incident has also triggered growing calls for an independent investigation as conflicting accounts continue to emerge.
Sesugh died during an operation linked to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). However, questions remain about the circumstances surrounding his death. While the EFCC and the police say the teenager suffered fatal injuries during a gunfire exchange involving suspected cultists, his family strongly disagrees with that account.
As a result, the case has attracted widespread public attention. Many observers argue that children must remain protected under the law, regardless of the allegations against them. Consequently, demands for transparency and accountability have continued to increase.
His mother, Jennifer Asar, described her son as a hardworking teenager who combined schooling with apprenticeship training. She said he was committed to building a better future despite financial difficulties. According to her, the family learned about his death from neighbours rather than from officials. That experience, she said, made an already painful situation even more difficult.
Meanwhile, human rights lawyer Marshal Abubakar has called for an independent and transparent inquiry into the incident. He believes the differing accounts from the EFCC, police, witnesses, and family members raise serious questions that require impartial examination.
Furthermore, the lawyer stressed that every child has a right to life, protection, and due process. He argued that allegations against a child should never diminish those rights. Instead, authorities must ensure that legal procedures are followed at every stage.
Community members, educators, and child rights advocates have also joined the calls for justice. They say the death of a teenager under disputed circumstances highlights the need for stronger safeguards during law enforcement operations involving children.
As pressure for answers continues to grow, many believe only a credible investigation can establish the facts. They also argue that the findings will help determine whether the teenager’s right to survival and protection was violated.
