Anambra Launches Investigation into Alleged Assault of Former Chamber of Commerce President
The Anambra State Government has initiated an investigation into the alleged assault of Okey Akaneme, the former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture. Akaneme was reportedly attacked by officials of the state Waste Management Agency (ASWAMA) and police officers.
Felix Odumegwu, the state Commissioner for Environment, confirmed the investigation when contacted on Monday. He emphasized that the government does not tolerate any form of assault, though initial findings suggest that ASWAMA officials may not be directly responsible for the incident.
“The Anambra State Government does not condone assault or any form of misconduct by government agents,” Odumegwu stated. “If any official is found guilty, they will face appropriate consequences. We are committed to uncovering the truth of this unfortunate event, but our immediate priority is to ensure the victim’s health is addressed.”
Akaneme was allegedly assaulted on October 11 at his home in Onitsha after ASWAMA officials, accompanied by two policemen from Onitsha Central Police Station, reportedly arrived to confront him over unpaid sanitation fees. Witnesses said the former chamber president was attacked, resulting in severe spinal injuries.
A close associate of Akaneme, Okechukwu Ani, recounted the incident, saying, “The team arrived at his home early that morning, demanding his arrest. Akaneme, still in his sleepwear, requested time to prepare, but they forcibly entered. As neighbours intervened to stop the assault, it became clear that Akaneme had sustained life-threatening injuries. The officials then dropped him on the ground near his door, unable to move, with a broken neck and other severe injuries.”
Akaneme was rushed to Holy Rosary Specialist Hospital in Onitsha before being transferred to Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital in Nnewi. Medical reports confirmed that his spinal cord had been damaged by 65%. He has since been moved to the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital in Enugu for advanced care.
The incident, widely circulated on social media, has sparked outrage among residents and human rights groups, many of whom have condemned the government’s initial silence and called for accountability.
Odumegwu, however, reassured that the government is focused on Akaneme's well-being. "Our first priority has been to reach the victim and understand his health status. He has reported the matter to the police, and investigations are ongoing. The ASWAMA waste manager has also been trying to contact the victim, but has not been successful," he added.
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