Tension continues to rise in Obollo Afor, Enugu State, as a large group of angry youths from the community have stormed the Obollo Afor Police Division in protest against police brutality. The protestors, armed with banners and placards, are calling for the immediate dismissal of Inspector Dumiri of the Nsukka Area Command. The demonstration follows the tragic death of Nnaemeka Ugwu, a young man from the area, who passed away after being subjected to excessive force by the police.
The demonstrators are demanding justice for Ugwu and are steadfast in their call for urgent police reforms, greater accountability, and an end to the culture of brutality and intimidation that has marred the local police force. As they gather outside the police division, the youth have vowed to continue their protest until their demands are met.
The protest was organized in response to the events of February 6, 2025, when Ugwu, a law-abiding citizen from Umuezejor, Obollo Afor, was arrested during a raid by the police at a patent medicine store on New Makurdi Road. Ugwu was accused by the police of being involved in the sale of illicit drugs. According to reports, the police, led by Inspector Dumiri, subjected Ugwu to harsh treatment during interrogation, which ultimately led to his death.
This tragic incident has drawn widespread condemnation from local activists, including the Orba Youth Advocacy Executives (OYA), who have been vocal in their demand for justice. In a statement, OYA expressed deep concern over the police's actions and called for an independent investigation into the death of Ugwu. They have also demanded that Inspector Dumiri be held accountable for his role in the incident.
In solidarity with OYA, thousands of youths from Obollo Afor have rallied together to express their outrage over the police brutality that claimed the life of one of their own. As the protest continues, the demonstrators are preparing to submit a formal petition to the authorities, demanding immediate reforms and the removal of corrupt officers who engage in abusive practices.
The petition, which has already gained thousands of signatures, calls for the implementation of comprehensive police reforms, increased accountability for officers, and a complete overhaul of the police culture in the region. The protesters are resolute in their determination to bring about change and to ensure that no other community member suffers the same fate as Ugwu.
OYA and other local groups have made it clear that this protest is not just about one individual's tragic death, but about the larger, ongoing issue of police brutality in the region. They are calling for an end to the systemic abuse of power by law enforcement officers and are demanding that the police be held accountable for their actions.
