There is heavy protest by aggrieved residents of Enugu and relatives of Igbo Jah, an Enugu-based musician who was murdered by a now-arrested police Inspector serving with the anti-cult unit of Enugu State Police Command.
It was learnt that hundreds of aggrieved residents had marched to the anti-cult headquarters and had attempted to burn the facility down but were resisted by police officers on the ground.
However, the protesters have blocked roads in some parts of the state capital including Onu Asata where they are currently burning tires and chanting angry songs.
Enugu police Spokesman, Daniel Ndukwe had confirmed the killing of the talented ogene singer, stating that the culprit had been arrested, adding that a comprehensive investigation had been ordered by the state Commissioner of Police.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Daniel Ndukwe, the musician was reportedly leaving the Squad’s Headquarters after a friendly visit when, for reasons yet to be ascertained, the police officer fired his rifle, hitting the victim.
Ndukwe’s statement reads, “A male Police Inspector serving in the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the Enugu State Police Command has been arrested and detained for the alleged murder of a male traditional Ogene musician, Okezie Chikezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah. The incident occurred around 8:10 p.m. on October 25, 2024, at the Tactical Squad’s Headquarters.
“The musician was reportedly leaving the Squad’s Headquarters after a friendly visit when, for reasons yet to be ascertained, the police officer fired his rifle, hitting the victim. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor. His body has been deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.”
He further said that the state Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, has ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State CID to conduct a full-scale investigation that will facilitate prompt and appropriate disciplinary actions against the police officer.
“The Commissioner empathises and consoles the victim’s family, friends, and associates, describing the unfortunate incident as unacceptable. He assures that the police officer and anyone else found culpable will be sanctioned in line with the law to serve as a deterrent.
“CP Kanayo urges everyone connected to the victim to remain calm and cooperate with the police to ensure that justice is served,” he said.
Peoplesmind
