Police probe alleged Abia community leader killing
The Abia State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the incident that led to the death of a community leader, Igwe Akwu, in the Okon-Aku community of the Ohafia Local Government Area of the state last Friday.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Maureen Chioma Chinaka, said normalcy had been restored in the community, adding that some suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.She said that upon receiving the report, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Danladi Isa, immediately deployed operatives from the Ohafia Divisional Headquarters, alongside two tactical teams, to the area to restore and maintain law and order.
The statement read, “The Abia State Police Command is aware of the incident that occurred in the Okon-Aku community, Ohafia Local Government Area.“Four injured victims were rushed to the hospital, where they are currently responding to treatment, while one death was recorded.“Peace and order have since been restored in the area. Community members have been admonished to embrace peace, avoid any breakdown of law and order, and desist from taking the law into their hands.“
Suspects arrested in connection with the incident are currently undergoing interrogation and will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.“Meanwhile, monitoring of the area continues to ensure the maintenance of peace in the community.“The CP encourages the good people of Abia State to go about their lawful activities, remain law-abiding, and refrain from taking the law into their hands.“Members of the public are urged to report any suspicious persons or incidents to the nearest police station or contact the command’s emergency hotlines.”
Meanwhile, traditional rulers i
n the community, under the umbrella of the Council of Ohafia Monarchs, have condemned the crisis that led to the death of the deceased.In a statement signed by the Udumeze of the Ohafia Ancient Kingdom, Ezie Ohamoha, and Elder Awa Udonsi, the royal fathers said there was no justification for the murder of a young Ohafia son under any guise, regardless of provocation.They also condemned the attendant arson, noting that no meaningful development could thrive in an atmosphere of crisis.The statement added, “We appeal to both Ndi Owom and Ndi Uma compounds to sheathe their swords.“
The council, together with relevant security agencies, remains resolute in finding a lasting solution to the crisis and preventing further escalation.”
