The Abia State Police Command has arrested an officer involved in the tragic death of Emmanuel Michael Okocha, a businessman hailing from Abiriba, in Aba.
This follows the outcry from the Abiriba community in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State regarding the alleged killing of Okocha by a member of the Rapid Response Unit of the Nigerian Police Force.
According to reports from DAILY POST, Okocha was fatally shot along Aba-Owerri road in Aba, purportedly for refusing to offer bribes to some policemen, despite possessing a valid vehicle license.’
In a statement released on Saturday, the Abia State Police Command, through its spokesperson ASP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the arrest of the officer. They assured that appropriate disciplinary actions have been initiated and that the perpetrator will face the full legal consequences of their actions.
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The statement read: “The Abia State Police Command is aware of trending online news regarding the incident resulting in the death of Mr Emmanuel Okocha, shot by a police officer. The Command hereby issues the following statement for the purpose of informing the public.
“Preliminary Inquiries into the matter reveal that a Police Corporal Obagi Njok, attached to Abayi Police Division under Abia State Police Command, shot at Mr Emmanuel Okocha along Aba-Owerri Road.
“The officer has been apprehended, and necessary disciplinary procedures have been initiated. Appropriate disciplinary actions and sanctions will be effected soonest, and he will face the full course of appropriate administrative and legal consequences.
“In this regard, representatives of the bereaved family and stakeholders will be carried along as the proceedings progress.
“The Abia State Police Command states without prevarication that the incident is unfortunate, and regrettable.
“The Command uses this medium to publicly commiserate with the family, friends, and well-wishers of the deceased.
“The Abia State Police Command remains steadfast in upholding professionalism and the rule of law.
“We unequivocally condemn any act of misconduct, unprofessionalism and indiscipline among our officers.”
