Dare Babalola
The Abia State Police Command has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of community leader, Igwe Akwu, who was killed in Okon-Aku Community, Ohafia Local Government Area, last Friday.
According to DSP Maureen Chinaka, Police Public Relations Officer, Abia State Command, normalcy has returned to Okon-Aku Community, Ohafia, following the death of Akwu, with some suspects already arrested in connection with the incident, as investigations continue.
DSP Maureen Chinaka said the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, swiftly deployed police operatives from Ohafia Divisional Headquarters, along with two tactical teams, to the scene to restore and maintain order, following the incident.
The statement read, “The Abia State Police Command is aware of the incident that occurred in Okon-Aku Community, Ohafia Local Government Area.
“Four (4) injured victims were rushed to the hospital, where they are currently responding to treatment, while one (1) 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 arraigned in court as soon as the investigation is concluded. Meanwhile, monitoring of the area continues to ensure 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 laws 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 via: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, 08079210006.”
Meanwhile, traditional rulers from 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 Ohafia Ancient Kingdom, His Royal Paramountcy Ezie Ohamoha, Elder Awa Udonsi, the royal fathers noted that there was no Justification for the murder of a young Ohafia’s son under whatsoever guise, no matter the provocation.
The Statement read, “The Attendant arson that ensued is also roundly condemned. No meaningful development could thrive in an atmosphere of crisis. We appealed to both Ndi Owom and Ndi Uma Compounds to sheath their swords.
“The Council, together with relevant security agents, remains resolute in finding the lasting solution to the crisis and nipping it in the bud from further escalation.”
