Tension in Enugu as trigger-happy policeman murders popular musician

Tension is high in Enugu, following the killing of a popular Ogene musician, Igbo Jah, by a Police officer attached to the Anti-Cult Unit of the Enugu State Police Command.

Local residents say angry youths are setting bonfires at the Obiagu and Asata areas of the metropolis in protest.

It was gathered that the musician was shot by an Anti-Cult Police operative, Friday night.

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Sources said the musician attended an event at the anti-cult office, during which a policeman shot him.

Igbo Jah was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was confirmed dead on arrival.

The Enugu State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday by its spokesman, DSP Daniel Ndukwe.

According to him, “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.”

Ndukwe added that “the 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.”