By Karen James
Famous Nigerian Human rights activist and National Convener of the Recover Nigeria Project (RNP), Comrade Osita Obi, has called for an investigation into the role of the immediate past Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Obono Nnaghe Itam, in the escape of two suspects linked to the murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, the lawmaker representing Onitsha North One Constituency.
Speaking during a press conference in Awka on Friday, Obi urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Police Service Commission (PSC) to summon CP Itam for questioning. He criticized Itam for allegedly failing to brief his successor, CP Orutugu Ikioye, on the case before leaving office, suggesting a deliberate attempt to cover up the matter.
“The escape of the killers of Hon. Justice Azuka was supervised by the former commissioner of police, CP Obono Nnaghe Itam. We are wondering why he failed to brief the incoming CP about such a sensitive case before his departure,” Obi stated.
“It was a well-planned deal to give the suspects the opportunity to escape. He should be investigated, retired immediately, and not rewarded with a bigger role in Abuja. He must be brought back to Anambra to account for the havoc he wreaked on the state’s security structure.”
Obi further alleged that corruption within the Anambra State Police Command is fueled by certain government officials who have compromised themselves. According to him, criminal activities, including kidnappings and killings, could not thrive in the state without the involvement of top-ranking officials.
“The escape was in connivance with some big men in Anambra State. We are calling on Governor Soludo to look inward and weed out corrupt officials within his administration,” he said.
Obi also recounted his own experience with government interference, describing how some officials influenced the outcome of a case where he was attacked by suspected cultists at Ekwueme Square.
“I was attacked, and while government officials initially took me to the hospital, those same officials later ensured that the suspects were not tried for attempted murder. The police were pressured, and instead of facing serious charges, the suspects were merely charged with assault,” Obi revealed.
The activist called for a total reform of the Anambra State Police Command, arguing that officers who have spent decades in the state should be transferred to prevent undue influence and corruption.
“A policeman who has stayed in Anambra for more than 30 years—what is he still doing here? It is things like that which cause compromise in the police force,” he argued.
Obi urged the people of Anambra to support the new Commissioner of Police, CP Orutugu Ikioye, in his efforts to restore security in the state.
“We just have a new commissioner, and we need to give him a chance to do his work. We will continue to monitor him and step in when necessary,” he added.
Concluding his remarks, Obi reiterated his demand for Governor Soludo to scrutinize his cabinet members, warning that some of them were complicit in the rising insecurity in the state.
“I strongly believe that some government officials are aware of the kidnappings, killings, and criminal activities in Anambra. The governor must review his team and ensure that those who are aiding criminals are removed from office,” he said.
Obi’s statements add to the growing public outcry over the worsening security situation in Anambra State, with many residents demanding urgent government intervention and police reforms.
