The sleepy community of Umusi/Olokwa in Owerri West local government area of Imo State was on Saturday, March 15, 2025, thrown into mourning as the newly elected youth leader, Stanley Nwoke was murdered, with four of his siblings sustaining various degrees of injuries.
Nine houses was also set ablaze in the unfortunate incident.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Imo State Command, Henry Okoye who made the disclosure through a statement, said the gruesome murder of Nwoke followed his declaration as winner of a youth election held on January 3, 2025.
“The attack, which occurred on 15th March 2025 at about 2100hrs, left four of his siblings injured and led to the burning of nine houses.
“Preliminary investigations reveal that the violence erupted over a youth election held on 3rd January 2025, after Nwoke was declared the winner,” Okoye said.
Police said, “A faction allegedly led by Chinaza Nwachukwu and others, who are currently at large, is suspected to be behind the attack.”
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Aboki Danjuma has condemned the gruesome murder of the newly elected youth leader and alongside his management team, visited the community for an on-the-spot assessment.
During the visit, the CP commiserated with the bereaved families and those whose houses were destroyed.
He assured them of the Command’s commitment to ensuring justice and preventing future violence.
Meanwhile, four suspects have already been arrested and currently undergoing investigation, while efforts were being intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Additionally, police said the deceased’s body has been deposited at the morgue, while the injured victims were receiving medical care in the hospital.
Consequently, the Commissioner of Police assured the public that normalcy has been restored to the community, with security measures in place to prevent further unrest.
The CP further urged all stakeholders to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasising that violence is not a solution to disputes.
He also called on community leaders to adopt peaceful conflict resolution strategies to prevent future occurrences.
The statement restated The commitment of the Command to the safety of all residents.
It also encouraged the public to provide credible information that can aid the ongoing investigation.
“Anyone with useful details should report to the nearest police station or contact the Command’s emergency lines 0803 477 3600, 08148024755,” the statement read.
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