Uniport graduate: Police officers were paid to kill my son – Father alleges
Shooting of University Graduate Leads to Protests in Port Harcourt
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Tensions escalated in Port Harcourt following the shooting death of 22-year-old Anthony Obodo, a recent graduate of the University of Port Harcourt. The incident has triggered protests and raised concerns regarding the circumstances of his death, prompting calls for justice from his family.
Obodo’s father, Princewill Obodo, accused the police officers involved in the shooting of being complicit in his son’s death. He alleged that the officers were initially assigned to provide security at the Nigerian Bar Association conference at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Elekahia, before being deployed to the area where his son was shot.
In an interview with journalists, Princewill Obodo stated that police officials who visited their home confirmed that Anthony was innocent. He expressed that the family is deeply traumatized and has demanded a thorough investigation.
On Monday, local youths protested at Agip Junction in the Ada George area, blocking parts of the road and igniting tires, which disrupted traffic. The unrest prompted a response from the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, who arrived at the scene to address the protesters.
Adepoju condemned the shooting and assured demonstrators that justice would be pursued. He confirmed that the officers allegedly involved are currently in police custody and that he has been in communication with Anthony’s father. A meeting is planned at the command headquarters, involving both the family and the accused officers.
The shooting incident reportedly occurred around 5 p.m. last Thursday when Anthony allegedly failed to stop his vehicle after being signaled by police. An eyewitness reported that an officer fired at the vehicle, striking Obodo and causing him to lose control, resulting in a collision with three individuals.
As investigations continue, the community remains on edge, seeking accountability and resolution in the wake of this tragic event.
