RULAAC alleges evidence tampering by family of detained Imo LG Vice Chairman, urges IGP to interrogate relatives
The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police over reports of possible tampering with evidence in the ongoing investigation of Igbokwe Prince Matthew Onyekaozuru, Vice Chairman of Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area.
In an urgent update to its earlier petition of April 8, 2026, RULAAC said the suspect, who is currently in custody at the Lagos State Police Command over allegations of car theft and related offences, may have had potential exhibits removed from his residence in Onicha Ezinihitte Mbaise.
According to the group, the suspect’s wife, Mrs Chidinma Igbokwe, and his elder brother, Mr Vitus Igbokwe, travelled from Owerri to the residence on Thursday, April 9, 2026. Between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., they allegedly gained access to the premises, conducted a thorough search, and removed several items believed to be material evidence relevant to the police investigation.
The group said the pair were later seen leaving the compound with the items loaded into a red vehicle driven by Mr Vitus Igbokwe, heading back to Owerri.
RULAAC, in the petition signed by RULAAC’s executive director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, warned that if verified, the development amounts to obstruction of justice, interference with police investigation, and possible concealment or destruction of evidence.
The group has therefore urged the Nigeria Police Force to take the following immediate steps:
*Secure the suspect’s residence in Onicha Ezinihitte Mbaise without delay to prevent further tampering or loss of evidence.
*Ensure close collaboration between the Imo State and Lagos State Police Commands for a coordinated investigation.
*Invite and interrogate Mrs Chidinma Igbokwe and Mr Vitus Igbokwe on the nature of the items removed and their relevance to the case.
*Recover and preserve any items taken from the premises that may assist the investigation.
*Conduct the probe with strict adherence to due process and transparency, especially given the suspect’s position as an elected public official.
RULAAC described the latest development as a fresh threat to the integrity of the investigation and a potential reinforcement of “repeat impunity” often associated with politically exposed persons.
The group reiterated its call for a prompt, professional and uncompromised investigation into the alleged criminal activities of the suspect, both in Lagos State and in Imo State, where previous arrests and unresolved allegations have been reported.
