“Corona Court Didn’t Clear Bodmas!” — “Go Back And Read The Verdict, Face The Court!” Fury Erupts Over Kemepadei’s “Vindication” Claim In Patrick’s Death Case

By Passman Akpos

YENAGOA, BAYELSA STATE — Bodmas Prince Kemepadei has described the findings of the Coroner’s Court into the death of 24-year-old Patrick Peresuodei as evidence that he was a victim of what he characterised as an “institutional conspiracy,” even as critics have challenged his interpretation of the verdict.

Kemepadei, reacting to the findings, said the outcome reinforced his belief that the truth surrounding Patrick’s death had been obscured by social media narratives and actions taken by institutions involved in the case.

According to him, social media users can sometimes prioritise sensational claims over facts because controversial stories generate greater engagement.

He alleged that police officers involved in the matter relied on narratives circulating online to redirect blame towards him, with the intention of having him arrested and prosecuted while distancing themselves from other circumstances surrounding the case.

Kemepadei further argued that the absence of a key individual made an independent investigation necessary and, in his view, prevented the truth from being concealed.

He also expressed confidence in the Bayelsa State judiciary, describing it as exemplary and free from executive interference.

Kemepadei acknowledged the role of the state government, saying that although he initially feared political considerations could affect the matter, he believed the Governor demonstrated a commitment to allowing the truth to emerge.

He also praised his counsel, A.S. Arthur, Esq., a former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, describing him as a distinguished legal practitioner.

The embattled Kemepadei, however, acknowledged that the legal battle was not over, saying he and his legal team were awaiting the Certified True Copy of the Coroner’s findings before deciding on their next legal steps.

Critics Challenge Kemepadei’s Interpretation

Kemepadei’s interpretation of the verdict has triggered strong reactions from some people following the case.

Critics have argued that the Coroner’s findings did not amount to a discharge or acquittal from criminal liability, stressing that the inquest specifically recommended further investigation into the circumstances surrounding Patrick’s death.

Some commentators pointed to the Court’s finding that Patrick did not die a natural death but suffered fatal injuries consistent with violent trauma.

The Coroner also recommended further investigation into Kemepadei’s alleged role, the conduct of NSCDC personnel involved in Patrick’s arrest and transfer, and the alleged custodial assault involving Inspector Barnabas Eyoroere.

One critic described Kemepadei’s interpretation as a “misconception,” urging him to read the full findings before drawing conclusions.

Another commentator challenged him to face whatever criminal proceedings may arise from the recommendations, stressing that the Coroner’s inquest was not a criminal trial.

What The Coroner Actually Found

The Coroner’s Court, sitting in Yenagoa, had found that Patrick died from haemorrhagic shock caused by multiple extensive blunt-force traumatic injuries and rejected the suggestion that his death resulted from natural disease.

The Court found that Patrick entered police custody on January 15, 2026, with injuries that predated his arrival.

On Kemepadei, the Court found substantial evidence connecting him and persons acting with him to the initial assault and injuries suffered by Patrick.

However, the Court also stated that a video in which Patrick reportedly mentioned Kemepadei did not, on its own, establish beyond reasonable doubt that Kemepadei personally inflicted the fatal injuries.

Rather, the Court found that Kemepadei played a significant role in initiating and participating in Patrick’s arrest and transfer to police custody and said the evidence warranted further criminal investigation into his role and that of persons acting under his authority.

The Court similarly called for further investigation into NSCDC personnel who participated in Patrick’s arrest, saying their explanations concerning how the injuries occurred were unsatisfactory.

The Coroner further found, on the balance of probabilities, that Patrick sustained materially aggravating injuries while in police custody and that evidence implicated Inspector Barnabas Eyoroere in an alleged custodial assault.

The Court consequently recommended criminal investigation and prosecutorial consideration of the relevant roles.

Inquest Is Not A Criminal Conviction

The distinction between a Coroner’s inquest and a criminal trial remains central to the controversy.

The Court did not convict Kemepadei, the NSCDC personnel or Inspector Barnabas of criminal offences. Instead, it found evidence warranting further investigation and directed that the relevant records and evidence be transmitted to the appropriate investigative and prosecutorial authorities.

The eventual determination of criminal responsibility, if charges are brought, will therefore rest with investigators, prosecutors and a competent criminal court.

Kemepadei Speaks Of Faith And Resilience

Reflecting on the ordeal, Kemepadei described the period as one marked by fear, anxiety and grief.

He said the presence of “WOYIN” gave him comfort and strength throughout the difficult period.

“WOYIN is God — today, tomorrow and forevermore,” Kemepadei said.

He added that the experience had taught him the importance of patience, perseverance and allowing due process to run its course.

“EGBESU IS GREAT,” he added.

What Happens Next?

With the Certified True Copy of the Coroner’s findings still awaited by Kemepadei and his legal team, attention is now shifting to the investigative and prosecutorial authorities.

The key question is whether the evidence identified by the Coroner will lead to criminal charges and, if so, against whom.

For Patrick Peresuodei’s family and those demanding justice, the next phase could be decisive.

The Coroner’s findings have not finally determined criminal guilt, but they have placed renewed focus on the chain of events—from the alleged initial assault and arrest to Patrick’s detention, alleged custodial assault, delayed medical intervention and eventual death.

As the legal process moves forward, the competing interpretations of the verdict are likely to remain at the centre of public debate.

Tarakirivoice will continue to monitor developments in the case, including any further investigation, prosecutorial decision or court proceedings arising from the Coroner’s recommendations.