Aides Of Delta State Deputy Governor Petitioned For Murder

In a shocking turn of events, a petition addressed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has accused aides of the Deputy Governor of Delta State and other influential individuals of involvement in murder, conspiracy, and incitement of violence in the Ewulu community of Aniocha South Local Government Area, Delta State.

The petition, filed by solicitors representing victims from the Ewulu community, details allegations of lawlessness, impunity, and cold-blooded murder reportedly orchestrated by a group led by Mr. Emeka Anukwu, popularly known as "Ikanda," who is identified as a Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Youth Mobilization attached to the Deputy Governor of Delta State.

Allegations of Terror and Murder

The document alleges that Mr. Anukwu, alongside other suspects, including Chiadiji Sunday ("Smooth"), Nwanji Thadeus ("JD"), Eseadi Darlinton ("Uwanekwu"), Awuta Alexander ("Nwaodogwu"), and others, have unleashed terror on the Ewulu community. On September 30, 2024, a particularly gruesome incident occurred where Mr. Anukwu was allegedly seen wielding an AK-47 rifle and fatally shooting the brother of one of the petitioners in broad daylight at the palace of the Obi of Ewulu. The attack left several others injured and receiving treatment.

In addition to the alleged murder, the suspects are accused of razing the palace of the Obi of Ewulu and several homes in a calculated attack that has left the community in turmoil.

Motivations Behind the Violence

According to the petitioners, the violence stems from disputes over illegal land sales to people high up in the government and misappropriation of communal funds. It is further alleged that the Obi of Ewulu and his secretary have been complicit in these activities, aiding the perpetrators to dispossess members of the community of their farmlands. The alleged involvement of  officials from the office of the Deputy Governor of Delta State, has also been highlighted as a critical factor enabling these crimes. Our reporter has also learnt that the same land grabbing of farmlands is playing out in Olodu Ogwashi-Uku community which is an area next to Ewulu community where thousands of hectares of land have been forcefully taken by these same individuals.

Impunity and a Climate of Fear

The petition accuses the suspects of boasting about their immunity due to their connections to high-ranking officials. This sense of impunity has created a pervasive atmosphere of fear and insecurity in the Ewulu community, with residents afraid to speak out or seek justice.

Call for Justice

The petitioners have called on the IGP who has since approved the petition to investigate these allegations thoroughly and prosecute those found culpable. They have urged the police to act swiftly to prevent further violence and ensure the restoration of peace and security in Ewulu. 

Community's Plea for Intervention

This case highlights a pressing need for accountability and justice in Delta State, particularly in curbing the misuse of power by individuals in positions of authority. With the community's fate hanging in the balance, all eyes are on the Inspector General of Police to ensure that justice is served and the rule of law upheld.