Igbo Jah Beloved Ogene Artist Killed by Police in Enugu

Tragic Death of Beloved Ogene Artist Igbo Jah (Okezie Chikezie Mba) by Police in Enugu Sparks Outrage

iexclusivenews – Traditional Ogene music sensation Igbo Jah, whose mesmerizing performances captivated audiences across Nigeria, met a tragic end on Friday evening when a police officer’s bullet cut short his promising career.

The incident, which occurred at the Tactical Squad’s Headquarters in Enugu, has sparked widespread outrage and demands for justice.

A Night That Ended in Tragedy

The victim, officially identified as Okezie Chikezie Mba but widely known by his stage name Igbo Jah, was reportedly leaving the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad’s Headquarters after what was described as a friendly visit when the fatal shooting occurred around 8:10 p.m. on October 25, 2024.

The incident, initially labeled as an “accidental discharge,” has raised serious questions about police conduct and safety protocols.

This tragic incident follows a disturbing pattern of police-related shootings in the region. Just two weeks prior, another individual, Smith Odinaka, lost his life during a routine stop-and-search operation along the Enugu-Port-Harcourt Expressway.

The perpetrators of that incident remain at large, adding to growing public concern about police accountability.

Swift Police Response and Investigation

The Enugu State Police Command, through its spokesman Daniel Ndukwe, has confirmed that immediate action has been taken.

The police officer responsible for the shooting has been arrested and detained pending investigation.

Commissioner of Police Kanayo Uzuegbu has ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State CID to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident.

In an official statement, Commissioner Uzuegbu expressed deep empathy for the victim’s family and described the incident as “unacceptable.”

He assured the public that appropriate sanctions would be imposed on the responsible officer and any other individuals found culpable in the investigation.

Governor Mba’s Condolence message

The unfortunate death of popular Ogene mucian, Igbo Jah I received with a deep sense of grief the untimely death of Okezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo Jah, under a very sad circumstance. It is a huge loss for us as Ndigbo in general and Ndi Enugu in particular.

He was one of the Enugu and Igbo talents, who continued to popularise the Igbo culture through their Ogene music. I have been briefed by the police and I have equally ordered a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure justice for him, his family, and fans around the world. On behalf of Ndi Enugu, I also send my heartfelt condolences to his family and fans. May God grant his soul eternal repose.

Community Impact and Cultural Loss

Igbo Jah’s death represents not just the loss of a talented musician but a significant blow to Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

As an Ogene artist, he played a crucial role in preserving and promoting traditional music, making his untimely death particularly impactful for the cultural community.

The incident has reignited discussions about police reform in Nigeria. Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), have been flooded with tributes to the late musician and calls for justice.

The hashtag #JusticeForIgboJah has gained significant traction, with many demanding transparency in the investigation process.

Moving Forward

The police commissioner has urged the community, particularly those connected to Igbo Jah, to remain calm while the investigation proceeds. The victim’s body has been deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy, which will form a crucial part of the investigation.

This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges in law enforcement practices and the urgent need for comprehensive reform to prevent similar incidents in the future. As the investigation unfolds, many hope that justice will be served not only for Igbo Jah but as a precedent for preventing future tragedies.

The legacy of Igbo Jah, a master of Ogene music, will undoubtedly live on through his contributions to Nigeria’s rich musical heritage, even as the circumstances of his death prompt serious discussions about police accountability and public safety.