Chaos in Benin Court as Woman Dies, NDLEA Accused of Negligence

Summary: A 52-year-old woman collapsed and died during a court session in Benin City. She was reportedly neglected and denied her medical care while in custody by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.

The Federal High Court in Benin City was thrown into chaos on March 31, 2026, after 52-year-old Titilayo Akindele collapsed and died during a court session.

The incident has sparked reports of negligence against the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), following claims that the deceased had been denied adequate medical care while in custody.

According to reports, Titilayo was arrested in January 2026 by the Edo State command of the NDLEA over reported possession of “Loud,” a strain of cannabis. Family members noted that she was held in custody for three months without being formally arraigned.

They further claimed that she repeatedly complained of ill health during her detention and court appearances, but her requests for medical attention were ignored. Despite efforts by the family to secure her release on bail for treatment, the NDLEA reportedly declined.

Her son, Adeshola, said the family made several attempts to obtain permission to seek medical care for her, but were unsuccessful.

“Several times we drew the attention of the authorities to allow us to treat my mum, but they kept telling us the NDLEA declined, until she finally collapsed and died in the courtroom,” he said.

Eyewitnesses and legal practitioners present in court reported that Titilayo collapsed during proceedings. Some alleged that NDLEA officers at the scene failed to provide immediate assistance and attempted to leave the premises, creating panic among those present.

Personnel from the Edo State Police Command, NDLEA officials, and an ambulance from Edo Central Hospital later arrived to evacuate her body.