The Enugu State Police Command yesterday arraigned Police Inspector Joseph Ozonwanji, formerly of the Anti-Cultism Police Squad, for the alleged murder of famous Igbo Ogene musician Okezie Mba, also known as “Igbo-Jah.”
The musician was killed last weekend, sparking a public outcry. Inspector Ozonwanji’s arraignment followed his dismissal, which was approved by the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police Zone 13, Godwin Aghaulor, after an internal trial.
According to court documents (Case CME/614/2024), the charge read: “That you, Ozonwanji Joseph, on October 25, 2024, at about 2010 hrs at the Anti-Cultism Police Squad, Goshen Estate, Enugu, did unlawfully kill one Okezie Chikezie Nwamba by shooting him with an AK-47 rifle, causing his death, and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 274(1) of the Criminal Code, Enugu State.”
Chief Administrative Magistrate Ngozi Edeani ordered that the case file be transferred to the Enugu State Attorney General’s office and that Ozonwanji be remanded at the Enugu Correctional Centre. Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer DSP Daniel Ndukwe noted the arraignment as part of the state government and police’s commitment to ensure justice in the case.
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Dr. Kingsley Udeh confirmed his office would prioritise the case, highlighting the governor’s directive for a swift and diligent prosecution. He emphasised that Governor Peter Mbah was committed to securing justice for all parties involved.
Meanwhile, Governor Mbah awarded scholarships up to the university level to Mba’s three children and pledged to cover medical expenses for his ailing widow.
Ngozi Enih, Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, announced these measures during a condolence visit to the late musician’s family, joined by Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Dame Ugochi Maadueke and Enugu North LGA Chairman Hon. Ibenaku Onoh.
