Indigenous people from the Anambra state capital, Awka, which includes the communities of Ezinaano, Umuokpu, Ezi Awka, Amikwo, and Agulu-Awka, peacefully protested in the streets, expressing their worry about the increasing levels of violence affecting Awka and its surroundings. Their main demand was the immediate expulsion of two policemen associated with the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). These cops have been linked to a recent surge of cult-related homicides that have shook the community.
The concerned protesters, including representatives from the 20 villages forming Awka’s capital, expressed their worry over the deteriorating state of security, particularly the targeted violence against the youth. The individuals leading the protest assert that the two officers from SCID are allegedly orchestrating the heinous acts and undermining local security efforts aimed at curbing criminal activities in the city.
Chief Richard Onourah, the spokesperson for the Awka people, highlighted the urgency of their plea. He emphasized that the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetoku, and the state Police Commissioner, Mr. Adeoye Aderemi, need to address the atrocities occurring in Awka. Onourah stated, “We are tired of burying our children. We want peace in our town, but we are helpless. Police authority should come to our rescue.”
However, in response to these serious allegations, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, vehemently denied the involvement of the accused officers in the reported criminal activities. Ikenga argued that the two officers were instrumental in restoring peace to Awka metropolis and that the allegations would be thoroughly investigated by CP Adeoye Aderemi, with a comprehensive report to follow.
Ikenga reassured the public, stating, “This allegation will not demoralize us in protecting lives and property in Anambra State.” He affirmed the police’s commitment to collaborating with other law enforcement agencies, including the state-sponsored Anambra Vigilante Service, community and religious leaders, and relevant stakeholders, to ensure a sustained peaceful atmosphere in the state.
