A police inspector attached to the anti-cultism tactical squad in Enugu state has allegedly shot and killed a singer, identified as Okezie Mba.
Mba, better known as Igbo-Jah, was reportedly shot on Friday evening when he was leaving the squad’s headquarters after a friendly visit.
The officer was said to have fired his rifle “without no reason ascertained”, hitting the singer.
Igbo-Jah was rushed to Eastern Medical Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His body has been deposited in the mortuary for autopsy.
Viral videos on social media showed bullet holes on the singer’s sides and chest.
Kanayo Uzuegbu, the Enugu commissioner of police, has ordered an investigation into the matter. The officer involved has also been arrested.
In a statement, Uzuegbu condemned the incident and promised that the officer would face disciplinary actions.
He also offered his condolences to the family of the deceased while urging them to assist the police in the investigation.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, psc (+), 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 statement reads in part.
“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.”
The incident sparked outrage in Enugu, with residents of the Obiago community taking to the streets on Saturday to protest against the alleged unjust killing.
In a now-viral video, protesters mounted roadblocks, burned tires, and carried placards demanding justice for Igbo-Jah.
