Nigeria Investigates Death of Usama Murtala in Ivorian Prison

The Nigerian government has initiated a probe into the death of Usama Murtala, who died while in custody at a prison in Côte d'Ivoire. The investigation was prompted after the recent release of five Nigerian detainees who were arrested alongside Murtala.

The Nigerian Foreign Affairs Ministry, represented by Minister Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, summoned Ivorian Ambassador Kalil Traor to demand an explanation for Murtala's death and the prolonged detention of the six Nigerians without trial. The five survivors, who were released after being detained for over a month, reported poor conditions, including lack of legal representation and inadequate nutrition.

They were arrested during a trade trip to Abidjan in August 2025. Ojukwu expressed the need for a thorough investigation into Murtala's death and emphasized the importance of proper communication and treatment of Nigerian citizens by Ivorian authorities.

The Nigerian government is also seeking compensation for Murtala's family and has conveyed its concerns to the Ivorian government.