Policeman Shoots Dead Popular Ogene Musician ‘Igbo Jah’ in Enugu

Popular Ogene musician Okezie Chikezie Mba, known as “Igbo Jah,” was shot and killed by a member of the Nigerian Police Force on October 25, 2024. The incident occurred at the Tactical Squad’s Headquarters in Enugu, shortly after the musician reportedly visited the unit.

This shooting comes on the heels of another alarming incident earlier this month, where police allegedly shot and killed a man named Smith Odinaka during a stop-and-search operation along the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.

According to reports, the shooting of Igbo Jah has been described as an “accidental discharge.” A social media user, Naija Trend, shared a video showing the musician’s lifeless body in a pool of blood, raising concerns over police conduct during public events. The user stated, “Popular Ogene Musician ‘Igbo Jah’ has tragically passed after being shot by an anti-cult police officer while performing in Enugu.”

The Enugu State Police Command has confirmed the incident and announced that the officer involved has been arrested and detained. Police spokesman Daniel Ndukwe stated that the shooting occurred around 8:10 p.m. as Igbo Jah was leaving the headquarters after a friendly visit. The circumstances leading up to the discharge of the officer’s rifle remain unclear.

Following the incident, the musician was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His body has since been taken to the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.

Commissioner of Police Kanayo Uzuegbu expressed condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Igbo Jah, calling the incident “unacceptable.” He assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State CID, to ensure accountability and justice for the victim.

“CP Uzuegbu urges the public to remain calm and cooperate with the police during this investigation, emphasizing that appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken against the officer and anyone else found culpable to serve as a deterrent,” Ndukwe added.