Tension is thick in the air in Awka, the Anambra State capital, following the murder of a 28-year-old man whose name was given as Chekwube Nnamah.

The young man his untimely death during a visit with his community members to their ancestral land located at Rock land estate on February 3, 2016.

The suspect, one Mr. Jeff Nweke, who was arrested by the state police command immediately after the incident was later released and his whereabouts remain unknown.

The autopsy report seen by News Express indicated that the deceased died from gun shot. The autopsy report was signed by Dr. M.E. Onwukamuche, Consultant Pathologist, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi, and Prof. Anthony Agbata, Professor of Pathology and Consultant Pathologist.

The disappearance of the suspect, who was alleged to have shot Chekwube Nnamah with an unregistered gun, has stoked anger in Awka. Counsel to the community, COC Akabogu, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Solomon Arase, over the issue.

The petition dated 27th April, 2016 and entitled ‘Complaint Against Police Activities’ reads thus: “Conspiracy, unlawful and illegal release of a murder suspect.

“Kindly refer to our petition to you dated 3rd March, 2016 and captioned ‘Compliant Against Police Activities (A Case of Subversion of Justice in Case of Murder)’ (herein attached). Recall that in that petition we intimated you that one Mr. Jeff Nweke shot and murdered one Mr. Chekwube Nnamah in cold blood without any previous provocation. Even the gun that shot and killed the deceased was not even licensed.

“To our greatest surprise and consternation, the police was unable to charge the suspect to court since 02/03/16. Rather the investigation has been going in a zigzag direction. Now the latest information reaching our clients (Ezinabo Youths of Awka) Anambra State now indicates that the suspect was taken to force headquarters in Abuja where he was allegedly released on bail.

“The worst has happened and this is a scandalous and flagrant violation of law and this is the type of gross professional misconduct that normally brings the police force public hatred, ridicule and odium.

“If not for the wise counsel of notable Awka community leaders, the youths would have resorted to self help to express their grievances over police misconduct.

“Finally, Kindly direct the suspect should be re-arrested and taken back to Anambra State police command (state CID), under whose jurisdiction the murder happened, so that he will be charged to court in accordance with due process of law.

“A murder suspect at large is a serious threat to public safety. We still count on your prompt and efficient intervention.”

News Express reports that a mass protest is being organised by Awka community to hold tomorrow (Monday) to drive home their anger. Already, the community has announced that all markets, banks and shops within the capital city should remain closed to avoid breakdown of law and order.

•Photo shows IGP Solomon Arase.

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