The Nigeria Police Force on Monday arraigned dismissed Inspector Joseph Ozonwanji of the Anti-Cultism Squad, Enugu, at a Chief Magistrate’s Court for allegedly murdering popular Igbo ogene musician, Okezie Mba, widely known as Igbo-Jah.
The incident, which took place over the weekend, has sparked significant public outrage.
Ozonwanji’s arraignment came after an orderly room trial and his subsequent dismissal, both approved by Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 13, AIG Godwin Aghaulor.
The charge sheet, marked CME/614/2024, alleges that Ozonwanji unlawfully killed the musician by shooting him with an AK-47 rifle on October 25, 2024.
The charges fall under Section 274(1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 30, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Enugu State.
During the court proceedings, Chief Administrative Magistrate Ngozi Edeani ordered the transfer of the case file to the Attorney General of Enugu State and remanded Ozonwanji to the Enugu Correctional Centre.
State Prosecutors SP Justice Attah and Emmanuel Ajogwu led the police prosecution.
Speaking to journalists after the arraignment, the Police Public Relations Officer for Enugu State, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, emphasized the commitment of both the Enugu State Government and the police to ensure justice.
“This case underlines our commitment to upholding the sanctity of life,” Ndukwe said. “While it’s the duty of every officer to protect lives, any misuse of firearms carries personal liability.
This arraignment demonstrates our resolve to see justice served.”
Enugu State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, pledged prompt action on the case, stating that Governor Peter Mbah had expressed a firm commitment to achieving justice.
“His Excellency is deeply invested in seeing justice prevail for all parties involved. I have received instructions to personally oversee this case as Attorney General,” Udeh affirmed.
In a humanitarian gesture, Governor Mbah also announced scholarships for Igbo-Jah’s three children, covering their education through university.
Additionally, the state will handle the medical needs of his ailing wife.
This announcement was made by the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, during a visit to the late musician’s home, accompanied by Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Dame Ugochi Madueke and Enugu North LGA Chairman Hon. Ibenaku Onoh.
“The governor’s commitment to the family underscores his compassion for Enugu residents,” said Enih.
“He has pledged not only to support the children’s education but also to ensure the welfare of Mrs. Igbo-Jah.”
'
'
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
