A Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt has condemned five individuals to death by hanging for the murder of Umezuruike Alex,the commander of the local vigilante group known as OSPAC in Omudioga community, Emohua Local Government Area of the State.
The court, presided over by Justice Sika Aprioku, convicted individuals, namely Okechukwu Orji, hailing from Atali community in Obio-Akpor, Igwe Promise, Iheanyi Igwe, and Morrison Igwe from Omudioga in Emohua LGA, alongside Goodness Monday from Akwa Ibom State.
They were found guilty on multiple charges including conspiracy, cultism, murder, and illegal possession of firearms.
Remarkably, the sixth defendant in the case, Alex Deiwe, was acquitted and discharged by the court.
Justice Aprioku, in delivering the verdict, emphasized the thoroughness of the prosecution’s case presented by Essien Edet, a legal officer from the Rivers State Police Command.
He highlighted the gravity of the crimes committed by the convicted individuals, not only in the murder of the OSPAC commander but also in their involvement in kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.
Speaking to reporters following the ruling, Edet expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting that justice had been served.
He underscored the significance of the verdict as a deterrent to others engaged in similar criminal acts, sending a clear message that justice will pursue perpetrators relentlessly.
The murder of Umezuruike Alex in 2021, wherein he was gruesomely killed, beheaded, and dismembered, sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the dire need for security measures such as OSPAC, aimed at maintaining peace and safety.
OSPAC, standing for Onelga Security Peace and Advisory Committee, remains a vital force in safeguarding communities against criminal elements, with the tragic loss of Umezuruike Alex serving as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by those dedicated to protecting their fellow citizens.
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