Imo women protest alleged police brutality

In a powerful display of unity and defiance, over 500 women took to the streets of Mmahu community on Monday, protesting against what they describe as rampant police brutality in the oil-rich Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area. The women, holding placards with slogans such as “Police brutality must stop,” “Kill and Bury, stop killing innocent souls,” and “Our pastor must be released,” called for immediate intervention from state and federal authorities, including the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

The protest highlights serious allegations against a police team led by Inspector Chika Okeabatta, notoriously nicknamed ‘Kill and Bury’. According to the protesters’ spokesperson, Mrs. Anwulika Omogo, Inspector Okeabatta, a former member of the disbanded SARS unit, has allegedly recruited a militia group that terrorizes the community, arresting, and killing residents on baseless charges.

One of the protest’s pivotal moments was the arrest and illegal detention of Pastor Noble Omogo, the community’s President-General, at a makeshift cell in the former NDDC hospital in Mmahu. Mrs. Omogo claimed that Inspector Okeabatta openly defies superior officers, proclaiming himself the ‘police Traditional Ruler of Egbema’.

“Egbema is a peaceful oil-producing community, and we demand the government’s intervention before our children are forced into retaliation,” Mrs. Omogo urged. Mrs. Love Nzeoma echoed this sentiment, expressing fears of a violent backlash reminiscent of conflicts in Delta State.

As the community’s patience wears thin, the women’s peaceful protest stands as a fervent plea for justice and protection. The police spokesman in Imo, ASP Henry Okoye, has yet to comment on the situation, pending a report from the Area Commander of Ohaji/Egbema.

This unfolding drama in Imo State draws national attention to the ongoing struggle against police brutality in Nigeria, as communities like Ohaji/Egbema demand accountability and reform.