Hundreds of angry youths from Mgbakwu community in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State on Friday staged a protest over the alleged killing of a 26-year-old man, Chinyeaka Ike, reportedly shot by operatives of the state’s Special Anti-Touting Squad.
The incident, said to have occurred around 8pm on Thursday, sparked widespread outrage among residents, particularly young people, who accused enforcement agencies of persistent harassment and extrajudicial conduct.
The deceased, described by community members as the only son of his parents, was recently married, with his wife said to be expecting their first child in the coming weeks.
In a dramatic display of anger, the protesters marched from Mgbakwu to the Anambra State Government House in Awka, carrying Ike’s remains alongside placards and green leaves, while calling for an end to what they termed “intimidation and violence by state task forces.”
Speaking during the protest, the youths’ spokesperson, Arinze Nwoye, alleged that operatives of the task force stormed the community and began arresting young men indiscriminately.
According to him, Ike and another युवक attempted to escape but were chased, with the deceased reportedly shot during the pursuit.
He said the community chose peaceful protest over retaliation, urging the state government to intervene and address what he described as repeated abuses by enforcement agencies.
A community leader, Chimaobi Egwu, also condemned the incident, accusing security operatives of exceeding their mandate and instilling fear among residents.
He referenced a similar incident in the community less than a year ago, suggesting a troubling pattern.
Other residents echoed these concerns, alleging that frequent raids by various security outfits have disrupted normal life and heightened tension in the area.
The protesters called on the state government to urgently review the operations of enforcement agencies, insisting that law enforcement must adhere strictly to legal and human rights standards.
Responding to the protest, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Ben Nwankwo, described the incident as unfortunate and conveyed the government’s condolences to the bereaved family.
He disclosed that the governor had ordered an immediate investigation by security agencies to determine the circumstances surrounding the death.
Nwankwo appealed to the protesters to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands, assuring them of the government’s commitment to justice.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and revealed that representatives of the protesting youths would engage with government officials in a bid to resolve the crisis.