Abaribe seeks justice for Aba businessman killed at police checkpoint

By Akinwale Kasali

Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe has joined the association of persons seeking justice for Emmanuel Okocha, an Aba businessman who was killed by a trigger-happy policeman at a checkpoint in Aba, Abia State.

Okocha was shot on Wednesday along Aba-Owerri Road by Corporal Obagi Njok, during an argument after he refused to hand over some money at the checkpoint.

He died on Friday in hospital where he was rushed for treatment.

Abaribe, who represented Abia South Senatorial District, in a statement on Sunday described the killer’s action as “primitive and highly unconscionable”, and called for the setting up of a judicial panel of inquiry to investigate the killing and other complaints against the police in Aba to research. .

He also urged the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to rein in the officers involved and ensure that similar incidents do not happen again in Abia.

The statement by his media advisor, Uchenna Awom, describes that “the gruesome cold-blooded murder of Mr. Okocha by the trigger-happy police officer on the allegation that he refused to give the said police officer money is not only shameful but also a serious stain on the image of the Nigeria Police, but one that is unacceptable and condemnable by all.”

However, he called for calm but reminded authorities that “the current sad development represents the low end of the proliferation of checkpoints in the South East, making it appear as if they are ‘points of purchase and sale’, rather than for security purposes.

“These frequent killings by law enforcement officers are becoming alarming and concerning. People now live in fear in their own countries. Our people are becoming afraid of the police rather than trusting their presence on the roads.

“That shouldn’t be the case. This is a country where laws apply and officers must follow the rules when dealing with the civilian population. The brutal killing of Mr Okocha is one too many, especially in Aba and its environs by the police.

“To allay the fears of the people, the police officer who allegedly shot dead Okocha, leaving his young family without a breadwinner, must face the full wrath of the law.

“And for other similar events, I urge the government to set up a judicial panel of inquiry to conduct a holistic investigation with the aim of nipping these ugly events in the bud,” Abaribe said.

Senator Abaribe condoled with the bereaved families, his Abriba community and the people of Abia State.