Over 500 indigenes of 20 villages in Awka community, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra state on Wednesday protested spate of cultism and killings of their kinsmen.
The protesters, comprising men, women and youths marched round the Awka capital city with placards, accusing some senior officers in the Police Command of aiding and abetting bribery and corruption in the area.
While some women appeared nude, some youths carried a mock coffin signifying burial of the accused officers, issuing concerned authorities 7-day ultimatum to remove the indicted personnel.
Some of the placards read, “Cultists are killing our people”, “Remove bad eggs from Police”, “Nigeria Police deserve better not director of crime”, “DC causing Insecurity in Awka”, “Say no bribery and corruption”, among others.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Chief Richard Onuorah said the communities would no longer tolerate incessant killings and maiming of their people.
“We’re crying our eyes out everyday because of cult related killings in the community. There’s fear everywhere. We can’t go out and come back in peace.
“People are dying everyday. We won’t keep quiet and watch this man’s inhumanity to man to continue. It is time to put a stop to it,” he said.
Also speaking, chairman of Ezinano Community, Tochukwu Nwokoye expressed optimism that the protest would bring an end to the unrest in Awka.
He called for return of a private security outfit in the area, saying they were comfortable with its mode of operation.
Reacting, Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga commended peaceful disposition of the protesters, assuring thorough investigation of the allegations.
He also appreciated people of the area for their support and cooperation, especially in providing information to the police.
He said, “There has been killings and cult related incidences in Awka. We’re calling on the families of the victims to come forward with formal report.
“We’ve arrested notorious killer fingered and confessed to be among those that killed four persons, including a private security operatives. Since that arrest, there has been relative peace here
“We didn’t achieve that feat alone. The people of Awka have been very supportive and cooperative. I must commend them because it’s through their information that we were able to track the suspects.
“As for the complaints brought to us, we’ll look into it and do proper investigation. Those officers their names were mentioned are very experienced officers. But they will be investigated.”
