Outrage in Anambra as Youths Protest Alleged Killing of 26-Year-Old, Demand Urgent Probe
Hundreds of angry youths from Mgbakwu Community in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State have staged a massive protest over the alleged killing of a 26-year-old man, Chinyeaka Ike, reportedly shot by operatives of the State’s Special Anti-Touting Squad (SASA).
Global Mirror News gathered that the incident, said to have occurred around 8pm on Thursday, has triggered widespread outrage across the community, with residents accusing security operatives of persistent harassment, brutality, and extrajudicial actions.
The deceased, described as the only son of his parents, was said to have recently married, with his wife expecting their first child next month—an emotional detail that further intensified public anger.
In a dramatic display of grief and protest, youths and other residents marched from Mgbakwu to the Anambra State Government House in Awka on Friday, carrying Ike’s lifeless body alongside green leaves and placards bearing inscriptions such as, “End persistent intimidation and violence by state task forces.”
Speaking during the protest, the youths’ spokesperson, Arinze Nwoye, alleged that SASA operatives stormed the area and began arresting young people indiscriminately, prompting some, including the deceased, to flee.
According to him, Ike was chased, shot, and later killed under what he described as “brutal and unjustified circumstances.”
“We want Governor Chukwuma Soludo to be aware of this. This is becoming unbearable. The young man killed was hardworking and innocent. We are law-abiding citizens; we don’t want to resort to self-help, which is why we are here,” Nwoye said.
He further called for the immediate disbandment or removal of SASA from the Mgbakwu community, insisting that residents no longer feel safe.
A Community leader, Chimaobi Egwu, also condemned the incident, sharing video evidence online and accusing enforcement agencies of operating beyond their legal mandate. In a formal petition to the state government and security agencies, Egwu described the actions of such groups as a growing source of fear and instability.
He referenced a similar incident involving a local security outfit, Udogachi group, less than a year ago, suggesting a troubling pattern of alleged abuse by enforcement Agencies in the Area.
Other residents echoed these concerns, alleging that multiple security outfits frequently carry out raids that disrupt daily activities and create an atmosphere of tension and fear.
The protesters urged the State Government to urgently review the operations of all enforcement bodies, stressing that law enforcement must be guided by the rule of law and respect for fundamental human rights.
Responding to the demonstrators, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Ben Nwankwo, described the incident as unfortunate and extended condolences to the victim’s family.
“This is a deeply sad development. The Governor is not happy about this. He has directed the police and the Department of State Services to immediately investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident,” Nwankwo said.
He appealed for calm among the protesters, assuring them that justice would be pursued and urging them not to take the law into their own hands.
Also addressing the crowd, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and disclosed that Government officials would engage representatives of the protesting youths to seek a resolution.
Global Mirror News understands that tensions remain high in the community, with residents closely watching the government’s next steps as calls for accountability and justice continue to mount.
