Dr Dunkwu, who served until March 7, 2026, as Deputy Chief of Staff (Legislative) to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has been at the centre of growing concerns within his community over the circumstances surrounding his passing.

The community dismissed reports suggesting that burial arrangements had already been concluded, describing them as false and misleading amid rising suspicions about how he died.

This position was contained in a joint statement issued by the Obi of Ute Okpu Kingdom, the Elders-in-Council, traditional chiefs, youth groups, the Uwizimas, and members of the Dunkwu family led by Chief Augustine Dunkwu.

Community leaders called on relevant authorities, including the Nigeria Police, the Ministry of Health, and other government agencies, to urgently ensure an independent medical examination is carried out.

They emphasised that no burial date has been fixed, stressing that burial will remain on hold until a full autopsy is completed to establish the true cause of death.

According to the statement, the decision was based on cultural, legal, and emotional considerations, noting that the circumstances surrounding the death remain unclear and require proper investigation.

The community also argued that an autopsy is necessary to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future, insisting that any wrongdoing must not go unaddressed.

Citing traditional beliefs, they maintained that their customs do not permit the burial of any person whose death is surrounded by doubt, stating that truth must precede burial rites.

On legal grounds, the statement referenced standard procedures for sudden or unexplained deaths, calling for compliance with relevant coroner laws and medical protocols that require autopsy in such cases.

The community reaffirmed its willingness to cooperate fully with investigative authorities, stressing that it is not opposing burial but insisting on due process and clarity.

They further stated that once the autopsy is concluded and findings are released, a proper and dignified burial would be conducted.

The statement ended with a unified stance from all stakeholders in Ute Okpu Kingdom: “In the interest of justice, tradition, and the safety of our people, we stand united: No autopsy, no burial.”

Security analyst in the Lake Chad region, Zagazola Makama, disclosed this in a post on X, noting that the arrest was made at about 9:10 a.m. on April 21 by personnel of 159 Battalion at a checkpoint within Sector 2 Area of Responsibility.

According to him, the suspect was found transporting PMS hidden in 15 sacks, which were reportedly disguised with bags of sachet water in an attempt to avoid detection by security operatives.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the fuel consignment was intended for delivery to Kanama town and nearby communities around Dikwa and Bultuwa, areas believed to be under terrorist influence.

Makama further stated that items recovered from the suspect included a mobile phone and the sum of N34,950.

He added that the suspect and all recovered exhibits are currently in military custody for further investigation and appropriate action.

Speaking with journalists in Sokoto on Thursday, the lawmaker explained that his decision was influenced by persistent complaints from constituents who continue to suffer repeated bandit attacks.

He said communities in the district are frequently affected by killings, kidnappings, and forced displacement, a situation he noted has severely disrupted daily life and economic activities.

Lamido criticised both the state and federal governments led by the All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging that they have not done enough to address the security crisis in the region.

According to him, many residents believe that switching to a different political platform may offer a more effective approach to tackling the ongoing challenges.

He acknowledged internal legal issues within the ADC but maintained that they would not affect his decision to join the party.

The senator also disagreed with recent claims by Governor Ahmed Aliyu that security conditions were improving in parts of the state, insisting that Sokoto East remains highly volatile.

He added that many residents now live in fear, with movement and normal activities restricted due to the constant threat of attacks.

Lamido called for increased deployment of security personnel, stronger intelligence operations, and improved logistics to combat insecurity in the affected areas.

He further urged authorities to provide humanitarian assistance to displaced persons and address root causes such as poverty and unemployment.

The senator reaffirmed his commitment to prioritising the safety and welfare of his constituents.