- The death of Ogene musician Igbo Jah by a police officer has sparked intense tension in Enugu, the Coal City capital.
- Youths in Obiagu and Asata have set bonfires as a protest against an incident, according to Daily Post reports.
- Igbo Jah was shot by an Anti-Cult Police officer after attending an event at the anti-cult office, according to eyewitnesses.
Tension has escalated in Enugu, the capital of Coal City, following the fatal shooting of renowned Ogene musician Igbo Jah by a police officer from the Anti-Cult Unit of the Enugu State Police Command.
Reports from Daily Post indicate that outraged youths have taken to the streets, igniting bonfires in the Obiagu and Asata neighborhoods as a protest against the incident.
It has been reported that Igbo Jah was shot by an operative of the Anti-Cult Police on Friday night after attending an event at the unit’s office. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the musician was exiting the office when the officer discharged his weapon, striking him.
He was promptly transported to a nearby hospital but was declared dead upon arrival.
The Enugu State Police Command confirmed the occurrence through a statement issued by spokesman DSP Daniel Ndukwe. He stated:
“A male police inspector serving in the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad has been arrested and detained for the alleged murder of Okezie Chikezie Mba, 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 after a friendly visit when, for reasons yet to be clarified, the police officer fired his rifle, striking the victim.”
“He was rushed to a hospital, where he was confirmed dead. His body has been placed in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.”
Ndukwe further noted that Commissioner of Police Kanayo Uzuegbu has instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Police overseeing the State CID to carry out a thorough investigation. This inquiry aims to ensure swift and appropriate disciplinary measures against the officer involved.
The Commissioner extended his condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the victim, condemning the incident as intolerable. He assured that the officer, along with any others found culpable, would face legal repercussions as a deterrent.
CP Kanayo urged all individuals connected to the victim to maintain composure and collaborate with the police to facilitate the pursuit of justice.