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Anambra Police Vows to Punish Officers involved in Akaneme’s Death

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By Praise Chinecherem

Police in Anambra state have commenced investigation into circumstances leading to the death of Mr. Okechukwu Akaneme, former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce.

State Command Spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga in a statement said previous internal inquiry surrounding the circumstances of the injury sustained by Akaneme in October last year suggested that the actions of some individuals involved in the attack fell outside the standard operating procedures of law enforcement personnel.

He however the Command had to reopen the matter following the victims death, insisting that any personnel found to have acted unprofessionally or unlawfully in the discharge of their duties would face appropriate disciplinary and legal measures.

The statement reads, “The Anambra State Police Command is aware of a disturbing narrative currently circulating across public platforms concerning the death of Mr. Okechukwu Akaneme, a respected figure in the Onitsha business community and former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce.

“According to reports, the late Mr. Akaneme allegedly sustained life-threatening injuries following an enforcement operation purportedly carried out by personnel of the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA), allegedly accompanied by armed police officers, on 11th October 2024.

“It is further alleged that this operation, in the course of enforcing waste management compliance, resulted in Mr. Akaneme suffering spinal injuries from which he never fully recovered ultimately leading to his reported demise on 10th July 2025.

“The Command expresses its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Mr. Akaneme and recognizes his significant contributions to the state’s socio-economic development.

“In response to the allegations, the Command acknowledges that an internal inquiry was previously initiated surrounding the circumstances of the injury sustained by Mr. Akaneme in October 2024.

“Preliminary findings at the time suggested that the actions of some individuals involved in the said enforcement operation fell outside the standard operating procedures of law enforcement personnel.

“However, with the unfortunate passing of Mr. Akaneme, the Command considers this matter reopened and has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, to immediately review the case file and conduct a comprehensive investigation into the events of October 11, 2024, and any subsequent actions or inactions by individuals or agencies allegedly involved.

“The Command wishes to reaffirm that no officer of the Nigeria Police Force is above the law, and any personnel found to have acted unprofessionally or unlawfully in the discharge of their duties will face appropriate disciplinary and legal measures.

“The Command is also in touch with relevant state agencies to ensure full cooperation in unraveling the truth behind this matter.

“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc minps PhD, assures members of the public that the Command remains committed to upholding justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights, and will leave no stone unturned in this renewed investigation.”

Late Mr Okechukwu Akaneme

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