In Enugu State, former police inspector Joseph Ozonwanji has been charged with the murder of popular Igbo Ogene musician, Okezie Nwamba, known as Igbo-Jah.
Igbofacts reports that the arraignment took place on Monday at the Enugu East Magistrate Court before Chief Magistrate Ngozi Edeani.
Ozonwanji, previously with the Anti-Cultism Police Squad, was dismissed following an internal police investigation that led to his trial, approved by Assistant Inspector General of Police Godwin Aghaulor of Zone 13.
He now faces a murder charge for allegedly fatally shooting Nwamba with an AK-47 rifle on October 25, 2024, an offense that could carry significant penalties under Enugu State law.
Ozonwanji’s prosecution is being led by the Officer-in-Charge of the Enugu State Police Command, SP Justice Attah, and Emmanuel Ajogwu.
During Monday’s court session, the single charge of murder, under Section 274(1) of the Enugu State Criminal Code, was read to Ozonwanji in his preferred language.
Magistrate Edeani ordered that the case file be referred to the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP) and remanded Ozonwanji to the Enugu Maximum Correctional Centre.
Police Public Relations Officer for Enugu State, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, briefed reporters after the court appearance, reaffirming the Enugu State Government and police’s commitment to ensuring justice.
“It is important to inform our people that the Chief Magistrate has listened to the charge brought against the dismissed police officer and has asked that the case file be transmitted to the Attorney General of Enugu State to proceed from there and advise accordingly for the next line of action.
“This is one trial we want to see happen. We are talking about a human life. Policemen generally have that responsibility to protect lives, but if, for whatever reason, any police officer misuses his firearm, the liability is on the person.
“That is exactly what has happened today. You could see the Enugu State Government and the police command in the state have done everything possible to ensure that justice prevails in this case. Today’s proceedings reflect the seriousness of this case, and we are determined to see justice served,” he said.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, stated that his office will review the case file promptly to advice on further actions.
