Tension in Anambra as Youths Protest Death of 38-Year-Old Man, Drop Corpse at Alleged Killers’ Gate

Tension gripped the Nimo community in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State as angry youths took to the streets to protest the death of a 38-year-old man, Mr. Ifeanyi Odibelu. The protesters, dressed in black and carrying leaves and banners, marched across the town bearing the corpse of the deceased. In a dramatic turn, they reportedly dropped his body at the residence of those they allege are responsible for his death. Shops across the community remained shut during the protest.

Mr. Odibelu, a known member of the Nimo youth community, had been missing for several days. According to Mr. Chijioke Ezedinachi, a youth member who spoke during the protest, Ifeanyi was last seen before being allegedly picked up by the Nigerian Police Force, following the instigation of some community members, including individuals within the traditional leadership. He was reportedly detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka without any formal charges. Protesters claim that after days in detention, he was released under suspicious circumstances and died shortly after on Sunday.

The deceased’s sister, Ukamaka Odibelu, described the emotional toll of the tragedy, recalling how she had tried to reach her brother by phone only to find his line switched off. She later learned he had been taken from his workplace at Ezi Elias, where he worked as a motorcycle rider. After frantic searches through several police stations, the family discovered he was in custody in Awka and reportedly gravely ill. His condition deteriorated shortly after his release, leading to his death.