Ex-ONICCIMA boss dies after ASWAMA agents’ attack

By Praise Chinecherem

Former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ONICCIMA), Hon. Okey Akaneme is dead.

Akaneme’s death might not be unconnected to injuries sustained during revenue enforcement operation by agents of the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA).

Recall that Akaneme was reportedly attacked in his own home during what authorities claimed was a routine levy collection exercise.

Eyewitnesses say ASWAMA agents and armed policemen stormed his residence without prior notice and demanded payment.

A confrontation followed, during which Akaneme was assaulted—allegedly in the presence of his family—leaving him with a broken spine and paralyzed.

The civic leader and respected businessman passed away after battling the injury months after.

The death has sparked widespread outrage in the state and beyond with renewed calls for overhaul of State’s revenue enforcement structure, which many say has become a symbol of impunity and brutality.

“It is tragic and ironic. A man who helped build this city was destroyed by the same system he believed in,” said a close associate.

A former colleague said, “He believed government should protect, not harm. Now he’s gone, and silence from the authorities is deafening.”

Civil rights groups and residents have accused revenue task forces of harassment, extortion, and violence under the guise of tax collection.

A statement from a civic group in Onitsha read, “This is no longer just about levies. It’s about unchecked power, and a state apparatus that turns against its own people.

Late Akaneme was widely respected for his efforts to promote ethical business practices and strengthen the link between government and the private sector.

During his tenure at ONICCIMA, he was known for his dedication to orderly governance, fairness, and dialogue.

Social media has been flooded with hashtags such as #JusticeForOkey, #OnitshaSpeaks, and #EndBrutality, as the public demands answers and accountability.

Ozi Anieto in his post, titled, “The Fight is Now Over” said, “It is a pity how a man woke up healthy in his house one morning, only to receive visitors from a government agency and the police — a visit that would render his children fatherless and make his wife a widow.

“He will never again speak with his brothers or discuss any family matters. He is gone – just like that.

“He was a man who gave his time, energy, and heart to build this society. But that same society failed to protect him.

“May his spirit find peace in a place where betrayal and injustice can’t reach, a place where service is not punished and dignity is not trampled.

“But we who are still here must not stay silent.”

Meanwhile, Akaneme’s grieving family continues to seek justice. “He left his bed that morning healthy. He never walked again. Now he’s gone,” a relative said. “Who will be held responsible?”