By Tony Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed that it has reopened investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Okechukwu Akaneme, a prominent Onitsha businessman and former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the police acknowledged the growing public concern over Mr. Akaneme’s death.
According to the statement, reports allege that Mr. Akaneme sustained serious spinal injuries on October 11, 2024, during an enforcement operation reportedly carried out by officials of the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA), allegedly accompanied by armed police officers. He was said to have battled complications from the injuries until his death on July 10, 2025.
“The Command expresses its deepest condolences to the family, friends and associates of the late Mr. Akaneme, and acknowledges his immense contributions to the socio-economic development of Anambra State,” the statement read.
Ikenga disclosed that an internal inquiry was previously initiated after the 2024 incident, and preliminary findings suggested that certain actions during the enforcement fell short of police standard operating procedures.
“With the unfortunate passing of Mr. Akaneme, this matter is hereby reopened. The Commissioner of Police has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, to immediately review the case file and conduct a thorough investigation into the incident of October 11, 2024, as well as any subsequent actions or inactions by individuals or agencies allegedly involved,” the statement continued.
The Command reiterated that no officer of the Nigeria Police Force is above the law and assured that any personnel found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary and legal action.
“The police also confirmed that they are working with relevant state agencies to ensure full cooperation in unraveling the truth.”
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc, minps, PhD, assured the public of the Command’s commitment to justice, accountability and the protection of human rights, vowing to leave no stone unturned in the renewed investigation.
