The Anambra State Police Command has announced the reopening of investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Okechukwu Akaneme, a prominent Onitsha businessman and former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, who passed away on July 10, 2025.
This comes amid growing public concern and reports alleging that Mr. Akaneme sustained critical spinal injuries during an enforcement operation reportedly conducted by officials of the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA), allegedly accompanied by armed police personnel, on October 11, 2024.
In a statement issued on Friday, July 26, 2025, the Police Command expressed its condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the late Akaneme, describing him as a distinguished figure in Anambra’s business community and a contributor to the state’s socio-economic development.
While acknowledging that an initial inquiry had been conducted in 2024 following the incident, the Command disclosed that preliminary findings indicated that certain actions during the enforcement operation deviated from standard policing procedures. In light of Akaneme’s death, the matter has now been officially reopened.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, to revisit the case and undertake a comprehensive investigation into both the original operation and any subsequent developments.
“No officer of the Nigeria Police Force is above the law,” the statement emphasized. “Any personnel found to have acted unprofessionally or unlawfully will be held accountable through the appropriate disciplinary and legal processes.”
The Command also confirmed ongoing collaboration with relevant state agencies to ensure transparency and full cooperation in uncovering the truth behind the incident.
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu assured the public of the Command’s commitment to justice, human rights, and accountability.
He urged members of the public to remain calm and allow due process to take its course as investigations continue.