Tensions escalated in Omagwa, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, after a police officer fatally shot Chikuma Egbule, a native of the community. The incident, which occurred on February 8, 2025, led to immediate protests, with residents expressing outrage over the alleged extrajudicial killing.
In response to the shooting, protesters attempted to deposit Egbule’s body at the Omagwa Divisional Police Station but were met with resistance from officers on duty. Subsequently, demonstrators blocked the main road leading to the Port Harcourt International Airport and Owerri, causing significant traffic disruptions.
Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, confirmed the arrest of the officer involved and stated that the deceased’s body has been placed in a morgue. She assured the public that the Commissioner of Police is overseeing the situation, normalcy has been restored, and security measures are in place to prevent further unrest. An investigation into the incident is currently underway.
