The Anambra State Government has launched an investigation into the alleged brutal assault of Okey Akaneme, the former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (OCCIMA), by officials of the Anambra State Waste Management Agency (ASWAMA) and police officers.

The state’s Commissioner for Environment, Felix Odumegwu, confirmed the investigation on Monday, stating that while the government does not condone any form of assault, initial findings suggest that ASWAMA officials may not have been directly responsible for the attack.

“We do not tolerate assault or touting in any form, and any government official found guilty will face appropriate consequences,” Odumegwu said. “However, our first priority is the victim’s health. We are working to ensure that Akaneme receives the medical attention he needs.”

The Attack

According to reports, the incident occurred on October 11, 2024, at Akaneme’s residence on Obi Lane, America Quarters in Onitsha. It is alleged that ASWAMA officials, accompanied by two police officers from the Onitsha Central Police Station, arrived at Akaneme’s home to enforce the payment of unpaid sanitation fees. Witnesses say the situation escalated when the officials attempted to arrest Akaneme.

A close associate of the victim, Okechukwu Ani, recounted the details of the attack: “The team arrived at Akaneme’s home early in the morning, demanding his arrest. Akaneme, still in his sleepwear, requested time to get ready, but they forcibly entered his home. As neighbours pleaded with the team to leave him alone, they reportedly inflicted severe injuries on him. Eventually, they dropped his body near the door of his apartment, and he was unable to move, suffering broken bones and a damaged neck.”

Akaneme was rushed to the Holy Rosary Specialist Hospital in Onitsha and later transferred to Nnamdi Azikiwe Teaching Hospital in Nnewi, where doctors confirmed that his spinal cord was 65% damaged. He has since been moved to the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital in Enugu for further care.

Public Outcry and Government Response

The incident, which was widely shared on social media, has sparked public outrage, with many residents and human rights organizations condemning the attack and calling for accountability from both ASWAMA and the police.

However, Commissioner Odumegwu emphasized that the Anambra State Government is focused on the well-being of the victim and is committed to resolving the matter. “We have been trying to reach the victim to better understand his health condition and determine how we can assist. The victim has already reported the incident to the police, and investigations are ongoing. The ASWAMA manager has also attempted to contact him, but we have yet to receive a response,” he added.

Police Involvement

While the Anambra State Police Command has not yet issued an official statement on the matter, a senior police officer confirmed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Awka for further investigation.

The spokesperson for the Anambra State Police, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, declined to comment on the case when contacted by reporters.

Conclusion

The assault on Okey Akaneme has drawn widespread condemnation, and as the investigation continues, many await answers on whether any government official will be held accountable for the brutal treatment of the former chamber of commerce president. The Anambra State Government has reiterated its commitment to uncovering the truth behind the incident while ensuring the victim’s medical needs are addressed.