Protesters Teargassed Over Demands for Accountability
In a recent incident, Enugu State Police used tear gas to disperse protesters rallying for justice following the murder of traditional Ogene musician, Okezie Mba. Known as Igbo-Jah, Mba was reportedly shot multiple times by the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) in Enugu, sparking public outrage. The event unfolded after Mba’s performance at a burial, where the police allegedly requested his presence for a secondary performance before he was fatally shot.
The Circumstances Surrounding Mba’s Murder
Mba’s tragic end has ignited intense scrutiny on the Enugu State Police. Sources allege he was preparing his instruments when he was shot in what the police described as an “accidental discharge.” After the shooting, police officers allegedly abandoned his body at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, and left the scene. This sequence of events has drawn sharp criticism from the public and prompted calls for accountability.
Protests Erupt and Escalate
Following the news, fans and locals gathered to demand justice, marching through the streets of Enugu to protest the musician’s killing. However, police deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, escalating tensions between the authorities and the public. Many participants expressed frustration over recurring instances of police misconduct in Nigeria, highlighting a disturbing trend of unprofessional conduct.
Police Response and Public Relations Silence
When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the Enugu Police Command, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, did not respond to inquiries. Subsequently, the Enugu Police Command issued a statement acknowledging Mba’s case as murder, although they withheld the name of the involved officer. Public demand for transparency and justice remains strong as citizens call for more substantial responses from law enforcement.
Investigation Launched by Enugu Commissioner of Police
Enugu State’s Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, has ordered a comprehensive investigation. The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is tasked with ensuring “prompt and appropriate disciplinary actions” are taken. This investigation, however, has done little to assuage public concerns regarding police accountability in the state.
A Broader Pattern of Misconduct
Mba’s murder has intensified discussions on police unprofessionalism across Nigeria, where citizens often face similar issues of excessive force. The Enugu incident is a stark reminder of ongoing challenges within the Nigerian Police Force, with calls for immediate reforms to prevent further tragedies and restore public trust.
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