PCRC Chairman’s Death Causes Stir In Rivers

An ominous cloud now hovers around the city of Port Harcourt as stakeholders battle to understand the circumstances surrounding the death of Chairman, Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Zone VI, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Benjamin Jeremiah.
The Tide learnt that Jeremiah was found dead on April 19, in his office in the Ministry of Youth Development, Block C, Room 722, Rivers State Secretariat Complex, Port Harcourt.
Sources said that the deceased, a Jewish faithful, was seen with blood and an unfinished plate of food beside him.
It was gathered that one of the deceased’s office assistants had opened his door only to find Jeremiah’s lifeless body.
The Tide gathered that the authorities in the ministry allegedly ordered the immediate cleaning of the blood stains and removal of possible exhibits before inviting the police to the scene.
Although sources at the ministry claimed Jeremiah left his office on Wednesday (April 18), and resumed work on Thursday, his relatives stated otherwise.
A family member, who spoke with newsmen, said Jeremiah’s widow insisted the deceased told them he would not come home that Wednesday.
The source alleged that disturbing graphic marks were also seen on his body, suggesting that he might have been strangled.
The family member said the deceased always briefed his wife on his movement, adding that the family was ready to get to the root of the matter.
Reacting to the sad news, Spokesman for the PCRC in the zone, Dr. Mina Ogbanga, said the group was also curious about Jeremiah’s death.
Ogbanga, who confirmed an emergency meeting had been held to discuss the incident, said they resolved to invite external pathologists to conduct independent autopsy on the deceased.
According to her, “the PCRC’s National Chairman, Dr. Faruk Maiyama, feels strongly about the death of the zonal chairman in his office. He has given certain directives, which are being adhered to by national officers from the zone.
“It was resolved that we all work together to ensure a successful burial process. Burial and security committees were set up. It was decided that an external pathologist be involved for independent autopsy report. He left behind his wife and seven children,” the PCRC spokesperson added.