There is heightened tension in Enugu, the Coal City capital, after a well known Ogene musician, Igbo Jah, was killed by a police officer from the Anti-Cult Unit of the Enugu State Police Command.
According to report, outraged youths are staging protests by setting bonfires at the Obiagu and Asata areas of the city.
Reports indicate that the musician was shot on Friday night by an officer from the Anti-Cult Unit.
According to sources, the musician attended an event at the anti-cult office, where he was shot by a policeman.
Igbo Jah was taken to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The Enugu State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday through its spokesperson, DSP Daniel Ndukwe.
He stated, “A male Police Inspector assigned to the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the Enugu State Police Command has been arrested and detained on suspicion of murdering Okezie Chikezie Mba, a traditional Ogene musician known as Igbo-Jah.
The incident took place around 8:10 p.m. on October 25, 2024, at the Tactical Squad’s Headquarters.
Reports gather that the musician was leaving the Squad’s Headquarters after a friendly visit when, for reasons not yet determined, the police officer discharged his firearm, striking the victim.”
He was quickly taken to the hospital, where the attending doctor confirmed his death. His body has since been placed in the mortuary for preservation and an autopsy.
Ndukwe further stated that “the Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police overseeing the State CID to carry out a thorough investigation to ensure prompt and appropriate disciplinary action against the officer involved.”
The Commissioner extends his sympathy and support to the victim’s family, friends, and associates, calling the tragic event unacceptable. He promises that the officer involved, along with any others found responsible, will face legal consequences as a deterrent.
“CP Kanayo encourages those close to the victim to remain calm and work with the police to ensure justice is achieved.
