Murder of only son triggers protest in Anambra
Youths of Mgbakwu community in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State have protested the alleged killing of a 26-year-old man identified as Chinyeaka Ike by operatives of the
Youths of Mgbakwu community in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State have protested the alleged killing of a 26-year-old man identified as Chinyeaka Ike by operatives of the state’s Special Anti-Touting Squad (SASA).
The incident ignited outrage among residents—particularly youths—who accuse enforcement agencies of repeated harassment and extrajudicial actions.
In a show of anger, hundreds of youths marched from Mgbakwu to the State Government House in Awka, a distance of about four kilometres, carrying the remains of the deceased alongside placards and green leaves.
They demanded an end to what they described as persistent intimidation and violence by state task forces.
The deceased, said to be the only son of his parents, was recently married, with his wife expecting their first child next month.
According to the youths’ spokesperson, Arinze Nwoye, operatives of SASA stormed the area and began apprehending young people indiscriminately.
He alleged that Ike and another youth attempted to flee but were pursued, with Ike reportedly shot and later killed under brutal circumstances.
“This innocent soul that just died is a promising youth that is hard working, what have we done to SASA and other agencies?
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“We don’t want to take laws into our hands, that’s why we are here to complain to the governor. We voted for him both in first and second tenure, we don’t want SASA again in the Mgbakwu community,” he said.
Other community members echoed similar concerns, alleging that multiple security outfits—including SASA frequently conduct raids that disrupt daily life and create an atmosphere of tension.
Another resident, Micheal Obidigwe, referenced a previous incident in 2025 where a woman was allegedly killed during a security operation, further fueling accusations of unchecked force.
“This is becoming too much. Every time they will be coming to carry our youths for nothing. What is our offence? Udogachi will come. SASA will come. SPACS will come. All the youths will be running and hiding every time," he decried.
The protesters called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to urgently review the activities of enforcement agencies in the state to save them from extrajudicial killings.
They stressed that law enforcement must operate within the bounds of justice and respect for human rights.
