Anita Ogona
Tension ran high in the bustling streets of Enugu Metropolis today as hundreds of protesters took to the streets, expressing outrage over the police killing of local musician Igbo Jah, whose real name is Chinedu Okoro.
Known for his infectious energy and songs that celebrated Igbo culture and unity, Igbo Jah had become a beloved figure in the community. News of his untimely death sparked anger and frustration among fans, friends, and family, who demanded accountability and justice.
Eyewitnesses recount that the incident began as a routine stop but quickly escalated when Igbo Jah reportedly questioned the officers about their treatment of local residents. According to sources close to the musician, he had always been outspoken against police brutality in his music, often calling for peace, respect, and a reformed approach to policing.
around mid-morning, crowds began to gather in key areas of Enugu, marching with signs, chanting Igbo Jah’s lyrics, and singing his songs as an act of defiance and tribute. Protesters carried banners calling for justice and waving placards that demanded an end to police violence. The protest grew larger as news spread, and other communities joined in, uniting fans of the musician with those who shared his calls for reform.
we gathered that a male Police Inspector serving in the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the Enugu State Police Command has been arrested and detained for the alleged murder of a male traditional Ogene musician, Okezie Chikezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah.
Our correspondent reports that the incident occurred around 8:10 p.m. on October 25, 2024, at the Tactical Squad’s Headquarters.
The deceased musician was reportedly leaving the Squad’s Headquarters after a friendly visit when for reasons yet to be ascertained, the police officer fired his rifle, hitting the victim.
According to the command’s spokesman, DSP, Daniel Ndukwe, “he was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor. His body has been deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State CID to conduct a full-scale investigation that will facilitate prompt and appropriate disciplinary actions against the police officer.
He empathizes and consoles the victim’s family, friends, and associates, describing the unfortunate incident as unacceptable. The commissioner therefore, assured that the police officer and anyone else found culpable will be sanctioned in line with the law to serve as a deterrent.
“CP Kanayo urges everyone connected to the victim to remain calm and cooperate with the police to ensure that justice is served.
Meanwhile the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has mourned the untimely death of Ogene musician, Chikezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah, ordering a thorough investigation into the sad development.
The youthful musician was reportedly shot by a police officer on his departure from the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad office after what the police described as a “friendly visit”.Reacting to the development on Saturday, Mbah took to his social media handles to condole with the deceased’s family, stressing that he had ordered a full investigation into the matter.
“I received the news with a deep sense of grief the untimely death of Okezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo Jah, under a very sad circumstance. It is a huge loss for us as Ndigbo in general and Ndi Enugu in particular.
“He was one of the Enugu and Igbo talents, who continued to popularise the Igbo culture through their ogene music.
“I have been briefed by the police and I have equally ordered a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure justice for him, his family, and fans around the world.
“On behalf of Ndi Enugu, I also send my heartfelt condolences to his family and fans. May God grant his soul eternal repose,” the governor wrote.
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