Tension is running high in Enugu, the Coal City capital, after the fatal shooting of well-known Ogene musician, Igbo Jah, by a police officer from the Enugu State Police Command’s Anti-Cult Unit.
According to the DAILY POST, outraged youths have ignited bonfires in the Obiagu and Asata areas of the city in protest.
Reports indicate that the shooting took place Friday night when the musician was attending an event at the Anti-Cult Unit’s office, where an officer allegedly opened fire on him. Igbo Jah was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
The Enugu State Police Command confirmed the incident in a Saturday statement from spokesperson DSP Daniel Ndukwe.
According to him, “A male Police Inspector serving in the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the Enugu State Police Command has been arrested and detained for the alleged murder of a male traditional Ogene musician, Okezie Chikezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah.
“The incident occurred around 8:10 p.m. on October 25, 2024, at the Tactical Squad’s Headquarters.
“The musician was reportedly leaving the Squad’s Headquarters after a friendly visit when, for reasons yet to be ascertained, the police officer fired his rifle, hitting the victim.
“He was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor. His body has been deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.”
Ndukwe added that “Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State CID to carry out a comprehensive investigation to ensure swift and appropriate disciplinary action against the officer involved.”
“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.”
