Tricyclist Brutally Assaulted by Security Operatives in Awka for Overtaking Anambra Commissioner’s Convoy

A commercial tricycle (Keke) operator in Awka fell victim to brutal assault by local vigilante operatives affiliated with Hon Chikodi Anarah, the Anambra State Commissioner for Homeland Security. The victim’s colleagues, staging a protest in Awka, alleged that the tricyclist was subjected to merciless beating.

According to witnesses, the security operatives not only shattered the windshield of the tricycle but also punctured its tires with bullets. The incident unfolded when the tricyclist overtook the commissioner’s convoy in a tight corner to avoid a potential collision with an oncoming articulated vehicle.

The unnamed tricyclist, in a viral video narrating his ordeal, stated, “I had to take the action to overtake the commissioner’s vehicle to avoid a possible accident because of the incoming articulated vehicle in a very tight corner. I was surprised when the commissioner’s boys descended on me, rough-handled me, and shot at my Keke.”

This incident echoes a similar occurrence that took place just two months ago when security operatives attached to Ossy Onuko, an aide to Governor Soludo and Managing Director of Awka Capital Territory Development Agency, assaulted a GUO Motors driver for overtaking their convoy.

Protesters, expressing outrage, called the vigilante operatives’ actions unwarranted and unprovoked aggression. Sunday Okagu, one of the protesters, demanded the Anambra State Government ensure that firearms are entrusted only to individuals with proper mental capacity and professional training.

An anonymous protester remarked, “Vigilante operatives attached to Igba ka Igba Amanuke (the commissioner) usually behave like cultists on a rampage. This man did not do anything to warrant the kind of beating they have given to him.”

Calls are now intensifying for a thorough investigation into the conduct of the vigilante operatives and for measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the state.