Policeman who murdered traditional Ogene musician Okezie Mba, known by his stage name Igbo-Jah, in Enugu State has been fished out.
According to a statement on Saturday from the spokesperson of Enugu State Police Command, Daniel Ndukwe, a police inspector deployed to the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad has been detained over the incident.
The statement said the musician was leaving the tactical squad’s headquarters on Friday, October 25 around 8:10pm after a friendly visit when, for reasons yet unknown, the police officer discharged his firearm, fatally wounding the victim.
The musician was immediately rushed to the hospital where doctors confirmed his death.
The statement said the commissioner of police Kanayo Uzuegbu has instructed the deputy commissioner of police, State CID, to lead a comprehensive investigation to ensure prompt and appropriate disciplinary actions are taken against the officer involved.
“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 Uzuegbu urges everyone connected to the victim to remain calm and cooperate with the Police to ensure that justice is served,” the statement added.
His body has since been deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
This revelation comes amid public outcry following Mr. Mba’s tragic death on Friday at the police’s Anti-Cult Unit facility in Enugu.
Police authorities initially described Mr. Mba’s visit to the facility as “friendly” and claimed he was leaving the premises when Inspector Joseph Ozonwanji allegedly opened fire on him “for reasons yet to be ascertained.”
While Ozonwanji’s name was not initially disclosed, Enugu State Police spokesperson Daniel Ndukwe, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, confirmed his identity in a statement released Saturday night.
Ndukwe added that Ozonwanji is now in custody and assured the public that the inspector would be “made to face the full weight of the law upon the conclusion of the investigation.”
The news of Mr. Mba’s death has sent shockwaves through the Enugu community, prompting Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah to order an immediate investigation into the killing.