Anambra youths protest killing of 26-year-old, demand probe

The streets of Awka, Anambra State, became a scene of profound grief and anger as hundreds of youths from Mgbakwu community marched to the Government House, carrying the body of Chinyeaka Ike, a 26-year-old man allegedly killed by the Special Anti-Touting Squad (SASA).

“

We want the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to be aware of this development and tell us what to do because this is too much.

This tragic incident has ignited outrage, with residents accusing state enforcement agencies of repeated harassment and resorting to extrajudicial actions. Ike, the sole son of his parents and recently married with a child on the way, was reportedly pursued and shot by SASA operatives who were indiscriminately apprehending young people in the area. The community's pain is palpable, amplified by the loss of a promising young life and the fear that such brutality instills.

“

This innocent soul that just died is a promising youth who was hardworking. What have we done to SASA and other agencies?

The protesters' placards, bearing messages like “End persistent intimidation and violence by state task forces,” clearly articulate their demand for accountability. They implore Governor Chukwuma Soludo to address this grave issue, emphasizing that they voted for him and expect protection, not terror, from the very agencies meant to ensure safety. The community leader, Chimaobi Egwu, has also highlighted a disturbing pattern, referencing a similar incident less than a year ago, suggesting that these abuses are not isolated events but systemic failures within the state's security apparatus. The call is for an urgent review of these agencies' operations to prevent further loss of innocent lives and ensure law enforcement acts within legal and human rights boundaries.

“

We don’t want to take the law into our hands; that is why we are here to complain to the governor.