Police begin trial of officer in fatal shooting of Enugu musician

The Enugu State Police Command announced on Sunday that the investigation into the fatal shooting of renowned traditional Ogene musician, Chikezie Nwamba, also known as Igbo-Jah, has been concluded, and an orderly room trial of the officer involved has commenced.

On Saturday, the command identified the officer as Ozonwanji Joseph, who was attached to the command’s Anti-Cult Tactical Squad (ACTS) unit.

In a statement on Sunday, the command’s spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, conveyed that the Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, assured residents of the state and Nigerians at large that justice would be served.

According to the statement, the Commissioner has ordered the immediate redeployment of the ACTS unit’s Commander, Ekeleme Chidobe, to facilitate a thorough review of the unit’s operations following reports of alleged illegal activities.

The statement partly read, “Following the tragic and unwarranted shooting and killing of Enugu-based Ogene musician, Chikezie Okezie Nwamba, also known as Igbo-Jah, the Enugu State Command’s Criminal Investigation Department (State CID) has concluded its investigation into the incident.

“Consequently, the orderly room trial of the implicated Police Inspector, Ozonwanji Joseph, has commenced. This trial will facilitate the next course of action in accordance with the Nigeria Police Force’s disciplinary procedures.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the officer in charge of the tactical squad, SP Ekeleme Chidobe, to enable a comprehensive review of the squad’s operations.

“CP Kanayo reaffirms his commitment to ensuring that justice is done in this case and to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism among all police officers in the state.”

The statement further noted that the police chief urged Nigerians to “continue to keep the faith and support the police, especially in bringing this case to a justifiable conclusion.”

The command’s spokesperson reported that the incident occurred late on Friday, October 25, 2024, at the Tactical Squad’s Headquarters as the victim was leaving following a friendly visit.

While Ndukwe noted that the motive of the officer responsible for the shooting remains unclear, the Commissioner has directed a full-scale investigation into the incident.