The government assured the family of the slain businessman and the Abiriba and Aba communities that there would be no cover-up in the matter.
By Jeffrey Agbo
Abia State Governor Alex Otti is saddened over the reported killing of a businessman in Aba, Emmanuel Okocha, by a police corporal, Obagi Njok, the state government said on Wednesday.
The victim, Mr Okocha from Abiriba in Ohafia Local Government Area was said to be driving home along Aba-Owerri Road, last Wednesday when he was allegedly shot by the police at a checkpoint. The businessman died last Friday at a hospital.
Reacting to the incident in a statement, Secretary to the Government, Professor Kenneth Kalu, said Otti had directed Abia State Commissioner of Police, Kene Onwuemelie, to ensure that the officer faces the wrath of the law.
“His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, is personally saddened by this unfortunate incident and has directed the Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Kene Onwuemelie, to ensure that the Police officers involved in this unfortunate incident are duly investigated and anyone found culpable is made to face the full wrath of the law,” the statement said.
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“Preliminary information from the Abia State Police Command shows that one of the Police officers involved is already in custody and would be made to go through the disciplinary process of the Police Force. If he is culpable, the officer would be sanctioned appropriately and charged to court.
“While commiserating with the immediate family of the victim and the entire people of Abiriba and the Aba community at large, Government commends the communities for heeding to the appeal not to go on protest or take laws into their hands in display of anger over the death of Mr. Emmanuel Okocha.”
The government assured the family of the slain businessman and the Abiriba and Aba communities that there would be no cover-up in the matter.
It also reassured residents of its commitment to protecting their lives and property at all times and enjoined everyone to go about their lawful businesses without fear or hindrance.