Headline:
The family of Michael Kenechukwu Ekemezie, a 39-year-old Nigerian from Mgbakwu in Anambra State, is calling for an independent investigation into his death while in Swiss police custody in Lausanne on May 25, 2025. According to reports, Ekemezie was apprehended during a routine check, restrained, and allegedly subjected to excessive force, leading to his death within an hour of arrest. A circulating video captures Ekemezie crying out in pain during the incident. His brother, Henry Ekemezie, likened the event to the George Floyd case in the U.S.
Represented by lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor, the family has petitioned the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), demanding:
A transparent and independent investigation
Identification and prosecution of involved officers
Public disclosure of the officers’ identities
An official apology and appropriate compensation
Institutional reforms to prevent future occurrences
Assistance with repatriating Ekemezie’s remains and funeral arrangements
NIDCOM’s Director of Media and Public Relations, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, described the case as “very sad and unfortunate,” emphasizing the need for fair and humane treatment regardless of circumstances. He assured that the commission is monitoring the situation and is prepared to take action upon receiving a formal petition.
The Ekemezie family has expressed readiness to escalate the matter to international human rights bodies if local avenues fail to yield justice.
