The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) are maintaining silence regarding the whereabouts of Nigerian fugitive Benjamin Nnanyereugo, also known as Killaboi.

Nnanyereugo confessed to stabbing Augusta Osedion in August 2023, resulting in her death. Despite initially stating his intention to surrender, he fled, prompting a widespread manhunt and a call for his arrest and prosecution.

In October 2023, Osedion’s brother managed to track Nnanyereugo to Sierra Leone. Following this, the NPF confirmed that the SLP had detained the fugitive. However, more than seven months later, the SLP has refused to disclose whether Nnanyereugo remains in their custody or if any extradition proceedings have been initiated.

Efforts by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) to obtain information from the SLP in April were met with silence. The SLP’s head of media and public relations, Brima Kamara, did not respond to inquiries despite reading a message from the FIJ on April 19. Similarly, Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos Police Public Relations Officer, has not responded to phone calls or text messages seeking updates on Nnanyereugo’s detention.

Extradition procedures between countries can be lengthy, often taking weeks, months, or even more than a year. Nigerian lawyer Moe Odele tweeted in October about the legal process, explaining that the Sierra Leone Extradition Act permits Nnanyereugo’s extradition to Nigeria. However, this process requires the issuance of a warrant and a court appearance to determine the extradition order, giving the fugitive an opportunity to contest it.

As of now, the whereabouts and legal status of Benjamin Nnanyereugo remain uncertain, with both the SLP and NPF keeping a tight lid on information. This lack of transparency has raised concerns among the public and advocates for justice, who are calling for more accountability and clarity from both police forces. 

The silence from the authorities adds to the distress of Augusta Osedion’s family and the public, who are seeking closure and justice for her tragic death. The situation underscores the challenges and complexities involved in international extradition cases, particularly when communication and cooperation between involved nations are not transparent.

The public awaits further developments in this case, hoping for a resolution that ensures justice is served and highlights the importance of international cooperation in criminal matters.