The Police Command in Enugu State says it has concluded the orderly room trial of.Insp. Joseph Ozonwanji, implicated in the murder of a musician, Chikezie Nwamba, popularly called “Igbo-Jah”.
The command’s Spokesman, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed this in a statement issued in Enugu and made available to newsmen on Monday.
Ndukwe stated that the inspector, who served in the Anti-cultism Tactical Squad of the command, was found culpable and handed down the maximum penalty of dismissal.
He further stated that the dismissal was immediately followed with his arraignment, in line with the Police Act and Regulations 2020.
“Accordingly, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 13 (covering Anambra and Enugu States’ Commands), approved the orderly room trial recommendations to dismiss and prosecute the inspector in court.
“Hence, he has been dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force and was today, October 28, arraigned at the Enugu East Magistrate’s Court for the offence of murder.
“The Chief Magistrate ordered the remand of the former officer in Enugu Correctional Custodial Centre and the transmission of the case-file to the Attorney General of Enugu State for further judicial action,” the statement added.
It also noted that the matter was adjourned to November 12.
Ndukwe further stated that the Commissioner of Police, Mr Kanayo Uzuegbu, extended his condolences to the family, friends and associates of the deceased.
According to him, the commissioner expressed gratitude to the government, people of Enugu State and the public for their support throughout the trial.
“The commissioner emphasised that the Nigeria Police Force remains a disciplined government agency.
“Under my leadership, the command will continue to hold all erring officers accountable for their actions,” he added.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Igbo-Jah, an Enugu-based traditional musician, was reportedly shot dead on October 25, while leaving the ATS premises “after a friendly visit”.