Apostle Kemepadei Denies complicity in Bayelsa Youth’s Death, Offers Clarification Amid Public Outcry
Apostle Bodmas Prince Kemepadei, a prominent Ijaw religious and youth leader, has strongly denied any role in the death of Patrick Peresuodei, describing allegations of murder and assault as “false narratives” propagated on social media.
Peresuodei, a resident of Amassoma in Southern Ijaw area, died earlier this month following his release from police custody. Public anger has mounted in the community, with groups including the Amassoma Youth Association issuing ultimatums and demanding justice over claims that he was abducted and beaten due to online criticisms of Kemepadei.
In a statement, Kemepadei expressed profound sadness over the loss while rejecting accusations that he orchestrated or participated in any violence against the deceased.
“This situation is both tragic and unfortunate. As a father, a religious leader and a youth leader, I am deeply hurt, and I am profoundly saddened,” Kemepadei said. “While I sympathize with the grieving family, I would also not condone acts of defamation and cyberbullying against my character and person.”
Kemepadei recounted that on December 20, 2025, Peresuodei allegedly threatened his life via social media, including references to using an AK-47 rifle, despite no prior personal contact. He said further threats continued, including a video on January 15, 2026, reiterating intentions to attack him.
Concerned for his safety, Kemepadei reported the matter to the Nigeria Police Force, Bayelsa Command. Officers arrested Peresuodei in Amassoma.
“The deceased was detained by the Nigeria Police, pending further legal proceedings, as I was determined to pursue the matter in court,” Kemepadei stated.
He said police informed him over the weekend of January 18-19, 2026, that Peresuodei showed signs of mental instability linked to hard drug use. On January 20, police cited the detainee’s condition and recommended release for medical treatment. Peresuodei was granted bail to family members on January 21.
Kemepadei emphasized he had no further contact with or sight of Peresuodei after January 16 until news of the death emerged on social media, accompanied by accusations of assault.
“Upon hearing the news, I was in shock. My intent was for justice to prevail through the court, as I would not wish him death,” he said. “I immediately contacted the police unit, and they assured me that these allegations are unrelated to me.”
He added that the Amassoma Police Division requested his statement, which he provided.
Kemepadei attributed the spread of false claims to individuals including “Pered Keme” and “Didi Dickson Opuene,” saying he has instructed his legal team to pursue defamation suits.
He referenced a video from the deceased’s sister stating Peresuodei was in good condition in custody shortly after arrest, contradicting initial reports of abduction and dumping.
Kemepadei said he initially remained silent out of respect for the traditional three-day mourning period and to commiserate with the family, but responded due to a three-day ultimatum from the Amassoma Youth Association and Southern-Ijaw Federated Youth Council—bodies he respects given his maternal ties to the Ogboin Kingdom.
“To the family, I extend my sympathies. Since the news of his death, my family and my entire support base has been in mourning. We regard human life as sacred,” he said.
He urged the youth associations to investigate diligently and reiterated his openness to full investigation.
“I am open to investigation, I am not bigger than the laws of this country, but I must say that this death is unfortunate,” Kemepadei stated. “This death is a sad loss, not just to the family, the Amassoma community, the Ogboin kingdom, but to the entire Ijaw Nation.”
