The Enugu State Police Command has concluded the orderly room trial of Police Inspector Ozonwanji Joseph, who was implicated in the murder of popular Ogene musician, Chikezie Okezie Nwamba. The trial, which was conducted in accordance with the Police Act and Regulations 2020, found the Inspector culpable and recommended the maximum penalty of dismissal from the Nigeria Police Force.
According to a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 13, approved the trial recommendations and dismissed the Inspector from the Force. The Inspector was subsequently arraigned at the Enugu East Magistrate Court on October 28, 2024, for the offence of murder.
The Chief Magistrate ordered the remand of the former officer in the Enugu Correctional Custodial Centre and directed the transmission of the case file to the Attorney General of Enugu State for further judicial action. The trial has been adjourned to November 12, 2024.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, has extended his condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the deceased musician, expressing gratitude to the government, people of Enugu State, and the public for their support throughout the case. CP Kanayo reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force remains a disciplined government agency and assured that under his leadership, the Command will continue to hold all erring officers accountable for their actions.
This development demonstrates the commitment of the Enugu State Police Command to justice and accountability, and serves as a deterrent to erring officers.
“The public is hereby assured that justice will be served in all cases of misconduct and criminality.” He said.
In another development, the Nigeria Police have arraigned Police Inspector Joseph Ozonwanji for the murder of Okezie Mba, also known as Igbo-Jah. He was arraigned before a Chief Magistrate’s Court for unlawfully killing Igbo-Jah by firing him with an AK47 Riffle. The charge against him is punishable under Section 274(1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 30, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Enugu State of Nigeria, 2024. The case file has been transferred to the Attorney-General of the State, and the suspect has been remanded at the Enugu Correctional Centre.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh has assured that his office will prosecute the case expeditiously and diligently.
Additionally, Governor Peter Mbah has announced the award of scholarship up to university level to the three children of the deceased musician and will also take care of the health of his sick wife.
