Speedy justice may be coming for the family of Chikezie Nwamba, popularly known as Igbo Jah, who was murdered on Friday, October 25.
The Enugu State Police Command has concluded the room trial of Police Inspector Ozonwanji Joseph, who was implicated in the tragic shooting of the renowned Ogene musician.
The Inspector was found guilty and given the maximum penalty of dismissal from the police force, followed by court prosecution.
A Night of Music Turns Deadly
Igbo Jah had been invited to perform for the Anti-Cult Unit of the Police Command in Enugu on Friday. However, he was shot in the back towards the end of his performance. Initially, the assailant claimed it was an accidental discharge from his rifle, but the investigation revealed otherwise.
His motive for the shooting is still unknown.
Swift Action Taken
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 13, approved the recommendations from the orderly trial to dismiss and prosecute Inspector Ozonwanji Joseph in court. As a result, he has been dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force and arraigned at the Enugu East Magistrate Court for murder this Monday.
At the Chief Magistrate Court, the charge sheet marked CME/614/2024 read: “That you Ozonwanji Joseph ‘m’ on the 25th day of October 2024 at about 2010 hours at the Anti-Cultism Police Squad, Goshen Estate Enugu in the Enugu North Magisterial District did unlawfully kill one Okezie Chikezie Nwamba ‘m’ by firing him with an AK-47 rifle, which caused his death, and thereby committed an offense punishable under Section 274(1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 30, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Enugu State, 2024.“
The Chief Magistrate ordered his remand in the Enugu Correctional Custodial Centre, and the case file was transmitted to the Attorney General of Enugu State to continue the criminal trial on behalf of the state and the people. The case has been adjourned to November 12, 2024.
In response to public outrage, the police have committed to expediting the case. After the arraignment, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of Enugu State Command, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, assured the public, “This is one trial we want to see happen. We are talking about a human life. Police officers have a responsibility to protect lives, but if, for any reason, a police officer misuses his firearm, the liability falls on that individual. That’s exactly what has happened today. The Enugu State Government and the police command have made every effort to ensure that justice prevails in this case.”
Commitment to Accountability
Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, extended condolences to Igbo Jah’s family, friends, and associates. He also expressed gratitude to the government, the people of Enugu State, and the public for their support throughout the case.
CP Kanayo reaffirmed that the Nigeria Police Force is committed to discipline and ensuring that erring officers are held accountable for their actions.
A Step Towards Healing
The swift action taken by the Enugu State Police Command represents a reassuring step towards justice for Igbo Jah’s loved ones and fans. As the case unfolds, the public will continue to monitor the proceedings, seeking closure and justice for the tragic loss of a promising rising star cut down in his prime.
Meanwhile, Governor Peter Mbah announced a scholarship program up to the university level for the three children of the deceased musician and pledged to take care of the health needs of his sick wife.
This announcement was made by the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, during a visit to the deceased’s home on Monday. She was accompanied by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Maadueke, and the Chairman of Enugu North LGA, Hon. Ibenaku Onoh.
“The Governor, in his magnanimity, has awarded scholarships to the children up to university level. Additionally, the state will take care of Mrs. Igbo Jah’s welfare going forward,” she said.
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