A popular Enugu-based traditional Ogene musician, Okezie Chikezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah, was shot dead at the premises of the Tactical Squad of Enugu State Police Command late Friday when he reportedly went there for a ‘friendly’ visit.
Reports said Igbo-Jah was leaving the command’s premises after the visit when, for reasons yet to be ascertained, a police inspector fired his rifle, hitting him.
He was immediately rushed to a hospital, according to the police, but was confirmed dead by a doctor. His body was deposited in the mortuary.
The police inspector who killed serves in the anti-cultism squad of the command. He was detained by other police officers.
Spokesman of the command, Daniel Ndukwe, later said in a statement that the incident occurred around 8:10 p.m. on Friday, and the state commissioner of police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, directed the deputy commissioner in charge of the State CID to conduct an investigation into the incident after which appropriate actions would be taken against the police officer.
The commissioner consoled Igbo-Jah’s family, friends and associates, describing the incident as unfortunate and unacceptable. He assured that the police officer and anyone else found culpable would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
“CP Kanayo urges everyone connected to the victim to remain calm and cooperate with the police to ensure that justice is served,” the spokesman stated.
