By Emmanuel Clement
Leaders of the Igbo-speaking community in Lagos have condemned the recent killing of an Igbo businessman Mr Charles Nwachukwu popular known as Akunwata and called on the Lagos State Government and security agencies to urgently intervene and prevent further attacks.
President-General of the Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos, Chief Sunday Udeh,decried the gruesome attack that occurred last Friday, where unidentified assailants reportedly invaded a shop at Ijagemo and brutally killed Mr. Charles, an incident that has heightened tension within the Igbo-speaking community.
He went further to call for calm and justice,while assuring the bereaved family that efforts are ongoing to ensure a thorough investigation into the incident, noting that the visit was not only to sympathise with the family but also to obtain accurate information surrounding the circumstances of the death.
Chief Sunday Udeh emphasised the importance of the leadership structure within the Igbo community in Lagos, particularly the institution of the Ezendigbo, established in 1998 to manage tensions and promote peaceful coexistence among ethnic groups.
He noted that before its creation, incidents of violence and destruction of property were more frequent between Igbos and other ethnic groups, especially the Yoruba, but added that the institution has helped to significantly reduce such crises through timely interventions.
Udeh appealed to the angry youths to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate the situation,noting that the police authorities are already aware of the incident and have commenced investigations aimed at bringing the perpetrators to justice.
He assured that the matter had been handed over to the Nigerian Police for a thorough and impartial investigation, stressing that the community would await the outcome to determine the true cause of death and allow the law to take its course.
Also speaking, the Obi Ndigbo of Ijagemo, Dr. Anthony Ukachukwu, expressed appreciation to the Igbo leadership for their swift response and support to the bereaved family. He described the deceased as a compassionate individual who contributed immensely to the welfare of people within the community.
Ukachukwu highlighted the deceased’s generosity, recalling how he once assisted a struggling woman and her three children by paying their bills during a difficult time. He stressed that true leadership is measured by service, sacrifice, and care for others rather than material wealth.
He urged unity among Igbo leaders and called for continued support for the bereaved family while praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased.
Speaking on behalf of Igbo youths in Lagos, Dr. Okechukwu Ozoemena condemned the killing, describing it as unacceptable and contrary to Igbo cultural values that place high importance on human life.
He warned against recurring violent incidents in Ijagemo and emphasised that youths would no longer tolerate such acts.
He called on security agencies, including the Inspector General of Police, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to ensure thorough investigations and prosecution of those responsible.
Lending his voice,the Ezendigbo of Ijegun/Ijeododo Community,Eze Ambassador Dr. C.C. Nwokedi, commended the leaders of the Igbo Speaking Community,the youth representatives, and security agencies for their prompt response to the incident.
He disclosed that five suspects had already been arrested and were assisting police investigations, while reaffirming his commitment to ensuring justice,urging community members to allow security agencies to carry out their duties without interference.
Responding on behalf of the family,Mr. Jonas,younger brother to the deceased, thanked the Igbo-speaking community for their support and called for justice.
He described the late Charles Nwachukwu as a committed community member with several unfinished projects aimed at improving the welfare of the people.
Mr Jonas appealed to relevant authorities, including the Inspector General of Police, and the Lagos State Government, to ensure justice is served, stressing that the family and community seek justice through peaceful means.
Investigator news reports that the death of Chief Charles Nwachukwu has raised so many eyebrows as the Igbos in Ijagemo community has questioned the Security agencies about the safety of their lives and property but the state government, security agency and the Eze Ndigbo of Ijegun/Ijedodo community has assured them, urging them to go about their normal business.