Escape of lawmaker killers: Human rights activist urges IG, PSC to order ex-Anambra CP Itam to explain his role

Maduako Igbokwe I Friday, February 21, 2025

 

AWKA, Anambra – An Anambra State-based human rights activist, Comrade Osita Obi, has called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Police Service Commission (PSC) to summon the immediate past Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, to explain why those arrested in connection with the kidnapping and killing of State Lawmaker Justice Azuka escaped.

Obi, who is the convener of the Recover Nigeria Project, made the call on Thursday in Awka, Anambra State, while reacting to the escape of the suspects involved in the kidnapping and killing of the Anambra State lawmaker.

“The immediate past Commissioner of Police in Anambra, Itam, must be ordered to come and explain what happened, his role in the entire process that has brought the police into great disrepute. The people of Anambra State want to know how arrested criminals could escape from police custody. He should also explain to Ndi Anambra why the police went to arrest a crime kingpin, and yet those suspects who claim the kingpin is their sponsor were not handcuffed. Those officers on the mission owe Ndi Anambra an explanation,” he stated.

He also expressed sadness over the failure of the former CP, Itam, to brief the new CP, Orutugu Ikioye, about the developments when he was leaving office.

Sadly, Obi stated that the corruption in the state police is being fueled by some government officials who have compromised themselves. According to him, criminal activities in the state would not be possible without the connivance of some top government officials.

He also narrated how some government officials influenced the outcome of his case with some people who attacked him at Ekwueme Square.

“I was attacked by some suspected cultists at Ekwueme Square. Government officials rushed me to the hospital, but those same officials did everything to ensure that the suspects were not tried. The police initially said they should be tried for attempted murder, but with the influence of those government officials—whom, unknowingly to me, I was blocking their revenue windows—those in the government even called one of the police officers to know his interest in the case. After all was said and done, the suspects were charged with assault, not attempted murder,” he said.

He, however, called on the governor to review and rejig those working within his administration, alleging that some of them are part of the problem in the state.

“I firmly believe that some government officials are aware of the kidnappings, killings, and criminal activities in the state. The governor should review some officials within his administration. Crime in the state cannot continue without the active knowledge of those in government,” he added.

Obi also called on the governor to provide full support to the new CP in clearing the mess created by the previous CP, noting that the new CP should now be given the necessary support to work.
He further called for the complete overhaul of the state police formation and security architecture for more effective policing.