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Anambra police chiefs arrested for extra-judicial murder, abduction of residents

Patrick Agbazue, Nwode Nkeiruka, and Harrison Akama were accused on social media of masterminding kidnappings and extra-judicial killings in Anambra.

• February 17, 2023
Police officers Patrick Agbazue, Nwode Nkeiruka, and Harrison Akama
Police officers Patrick Agbazue, Nwode Nkeiruka, and Harrison Akama

Two Anambra police chiefs and an inspector have been arrested on the orders of the Inspector-General of Police over allegations of extra-judicial killings and kidnappings in the state. 

The police spokesman in Anambra, Tochukwu Ikenga, today confirmed in a press release sent to Peoples Gazette. 

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, psc(+), NPM, NEAPS, FDC, CFR, has set up a special investigation panel under the IGP Monitoring and Mentoring Unit to commence investigations into some weighty allegations of unprofessionalism, high-handedness, and extra-judicial killings leveled against its officers serving at the Zone 13 Command, Ukpo-Dunukofia, and the Anambra State Command on social media platforms.

“In light of the serious allegations leveled against the officers — CSP Patrick Agbazue, officer-in-charge of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Anambra State Command; SP Nwode Nkeiruka, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Zone 13 Headquarters, Ukpo-Dunukofia, and Inspector Harrison Akama attached to the RRS, they reported at the Force Headquarters, Louis Edet House, Abuja today Friday 17th February 2023, on the directives of the IGP for commencement of investigations to ascertain the veracity of the allegations for further necessary action, while the panel has been given a period of two weeks to come up with a report of investigations.

“The Force enjoins any member of the public who has had experiences or information on acts of high-handedness, extortion, or extra-judicial killings by the officers in question, to forward same with detailed information via mobile number 08036242591, or by email via pressforabuja@police.gov.ngigpmufhq@npf-c4i.com to enable the panel to achieve a holistic investigation.

“The Inspector-General of Police has assured that the findings of the investigations will determine the next line of action, even as he promises that the Force will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that justice is done in the case and sanctions meted to any officers found guilty accordingly.”

Mr Agbazue, Mrs Nkeiruka, and Mr Akama were accused on social media of masterminding kidnappings and extra-judicial killings in Anambra State. 

Reacting to the allegations on social media, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, assured Nigerians that the police was looking into the allegations. 

“The Force Headquarters is aware of this case. We are looking into it with all the seriousness it deserves.

“The IGP personally has stepped into the case, and we hope to speak, officially, about the matter. Pls, be calm while we take the necessary action. Thanks,” Mr Adejobi said.

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