Titilayo Akindele, 52, died in Benin City, Edo State, after falling during court hearings following her detention by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for alleged drug crimes.

Akindele was reportedly detained for selling “loud,” a strong strain of cannabis, and was on trial when the incident occurred.

Despite being granted bail by the court, she was claimed to have remained in NDLEA custody, raising concerns about judicial compliance and the treatment of detained detainees.

According to sources surrounding the case, the deceased constantly complained of illness in court and to the agency, requesting to be transported to a medical center for treatment.

It was also stated that her family offered financial assistance to help with her care, but these requests were ignored.

The event apparently turned tragic when she fell at a court hearing and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

The development has reignited debate over detainee welfare, access to healthcare, and law enforcement organisations’ adherence to bail conditions.

Similar concerns were raised in Nigeria in 2023 after reports of detainees reportedly being refused sufficient medical care while in jail, leading calls for detention reforms and more control of security forces.

Authorities have yet to publish an official comment about the incident.