Police corporal ‘shoots dead’ Abia businessman over ‘refusal to offer bribe’

Emmanuel Okocha, a businessman, was allegedly shot dead on Wednesday by a police officer.

The incident took place along the Aba-Owerri road in Abia state.

The police officers were said to have stopped Okocha’s vehicle and allegedly demanded a bribe from him after they inspected his vehicle papers.

Okocha was said to have refused to grant the request and he entered his car to continue his journey.

Displeased with the deceased’s refusal, one of the police officers allegedly pulled the trigger and shot Okocha.

In a statement on Saturday, Maureen Chinaka, Abia police spokesperson, identified the police officer as Obagi Njok, a corporal.

Chinaka said Njok has been arrested and appropriate disciplinary actions have commenced.

The Abia police spokesperson sympathised with the deceased’s family, saying the command condemns any form of unprofessionalism.

“The officer has been apprehended, and necessary disciplinary procedures have been initiated,” the statement reads.

“Appropriate disciplinary actions and sanctions will be effected soonest, and he will face the full course of appropriate administrative and legal consequences.

“In this regard, representatives of the bereaved family and stakeholders will be carried along as the proceedings progress.

“The Abia state police command states without prevarication that the incident is unfortunate, and regrettable.

“The command uses this medium to publicly commiserate with the family, friends, and well-wishers of the deceased.”