Senator  Austin Akobundu representing Abia Central Senatorial District on Thursday called for a thorough investigation into  the alleged murder of a constituent by Naval personnel at Umunkpeyi checkpoint in Mbawsi, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, Abia State.

"My attention has been drawn to a viral video on the social media depicting the death of a young and vibrant man allegedly in the hands of Naval Officers at a checkpoint. This is a tragedy that has shaken all of us to our core and thrown his family and loved ones into grief and mourning', the Senator stated in a statement which also decried the unfortunate incident


Akobundu, who further expressed deep shock over the incident, condoled the family over  their loss. He noted the efforts of  the elder brother of the deceased, Elder Chikezie Orji, who bravely documented the incident on video, by capturing the heart-wrenching moments, including the sight of his brother's lifeless body, in a bid to seek justice for his sibling.

 Akobundu affirmed that his office will not turn a blind eye to such injustice, pain, and suffering visited on the family and indeed the people of Umunkpeyi and will take necessary steps to unravel what led to the unfortunate incident and ensure that justice  done.

The Senator, a retired officer of the Nigerian Army further assured the people that he has initiated discussions with the military authorities to ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

He therefore urged the immediate family and people of  Umunkpeyi Mbawsi, Isiala Ngwa North, to remain calm and law-abiding and cooperates with him in seeking a  peaceful solution and demand for  justice through lawful means


Dailyledger.ng.com reports that the Director of Naval Information, Rear Admiral Ayo-Vaughan, has confirmed  the shooting of Majo Nwogu said to be a motorcycle rider by  an unnamed naval officer, stationed at the Naval College of Administration and Finance, Owerri-Nta, Abia State, adding that  investigations are underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding Nwogu’s death.

“On Thursday 15 February, 2024, at about 04:50 pm, a case theft of a tricycle was reported.  Mr Majo was invited for questioning by his own personnel deployed at Umukpeyi-Nvosi, Abia state checkpoint.

“In the course of apprehending him, there was an altercation and while struggling with the rifle of the personnel a round was released.

“Immediately, efforts were made to evacuate him to a hospital where he was reported dead on arrival.

“The personnel is a rating of Nigerian Navy College of Accounts and Finance Owerri-Nta deployed on internal security duties at the checkpoint which is part of own aid to civil authority in Abia state

The general public is requested to note that investigations are ongoing to unravel the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident", he stated