Enugu: Police dismiss, arraign Inspector Ozonwanji over murder of Igbo-Jah

On Monday, the Nigeria Police arraigned Police Inspector Joseph Ozonwanji, formerly with Enugu’s Anti-Cultism Police Squad, before a Chief Magistrate’s Court for the murder of Igbo ogene musician Okezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah. The incident occurred over the weekend.

Following an internal trial, Inspector Ozonwanji was dismissed, and the Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 13, AIG Godwin Aghaulor, approved his arraignment. Police prosecution was led by SP Justice Attah and Emmanuel Ajogwu of the Enugu State Police Command.

The charge, CME/614/2024, alleges that Ozonwanji unlawfully killed Okezie Chikezie Nwamba on October 25, 2024, by shooting him with an AK-47 rifle, constituting an offense under Section 274(1) of Enugu State’s Criminal Code.

The Chief Administrative Magistrate of Enugu East Magistrate Court, Ngozi Edeani, ordered that the case file be forwarded to the Attorney General of Enugu State and directed the accused to be remanded at Enugu Correctional Centre.

Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, emphasized that the arraignment aligns with the commitment of the state government and police to ensure justice in the matter. He noted, “Police officers are duty-bound to protect lives. If an officer misuses their firearm, they are solely responsible, as seen in today’s action.”

Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, pledged to expedite the case, underscoring the government’s commitment to justice. Governor Peter Mbah announced scholarships for Igbo-Jah’s three children through university and will provide for his ailing wife’s medical care.

Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, affirmed the governor’s commitment to supporting the family and ensuring that justice is served.