Enugu State’s Governor Peter Mbah has expressed sorrow even as the Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, in company of top officials of the government, on Saturday, visited the family of murdered traditional Ogene musician, Chikezie Okezie Nwamba (a.k.a. Igbo-Jah).
He was shot dead by a policeman on Friday night.
Residents of Enugu, Enugu State, trooped out on Saturday to protest the killing of the Ogene musician by a police inspector.
Hundreds of residents of the state who were embittered about Mba’s death matched to the anti-cult headquarters and attempted to burn it down.
CP VISITS FAMILY
During the visit to the family of the deceased, CP Kanayo reassured the family, relatives, friends and the people of Enugu State that the ongoing investigation into the case would be concluded within record time and justice duly served.
The CP emphasised that the Nigeria Police Force remained a disciplined organisation where erring police officers were made to face the consequences of their actions to serve as deterrence to others.
He restated his sympathy and empathy to everyone affected by the unfortunate and callous murder of the musician, urging all and sundry to keep faith with the police while justice is done to the case.
CITIZENS PROTEST KILLING
It was gathered that the protests turned violent, as the police fired teargas.
The protesters blocked some roads in parts of the state capital, including Onu Asata, where they setup a bonfire with angry songs.
GOVERNOR MBAH MOURNS
Governor Peter Mbah has ordered an investigation into the killing.
Mbah took to his social media handle to offer condolences to the deceased’s family and assured the public that he had directed a full investigation into the matter.
The Governor wrote, “I received with a deep sense of grief, the untimely death of Okezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo Jah, under a very sad circumstance. It is a huge loss for us as Ndigbo in general and Ndi Enugu in particular.
“He was one of the Enugu and Igbo talents, who continued to popularise the Igbo culture through their ogene music.
“I have been briefed by the police and I have equally ordered a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure justice for him, his family, and fans around the world.
“On behalf of Ndi Enugu, I also send my heartfelt condolences to his family and fans. May God grant his soul eternal repose.”
POLICE PRO SAYS CULPRIT IN CUSTODY
Spokesman of the Enugu Police Command, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, said, “A male police inspector serving in the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the Enugu State police command has been arrested and detained over 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.
“The Commissioner of Police, 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.”
Spokesman of the Enugu Police Command, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, says the “Police Inspector Ozonwanji Joseph “m”, whose unredacted photographs are attached, has been identified as responsible for the shooting.
“He is currently in custody and will be made to face the full weight of the law upon the conclusion of the investigation.”
The shot musician had been immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead.
His body has been deposited in a mortuary.
