The Anambra State Government has launched an investigation into the alleged assault of Okey Akaneme, a former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, by officials of the state’s Waste Management Agency (ASWAMA) and police officers.
The state’s Commissioner for Environment, Felix Odumegwu, confirmed the investigation when contacted by our correspondent on Monday. He emphasized that the government does not tolerate assault in any form, adding that preliminary findings suggest ASWAMA officials may not be responsible for the incident.
“The Anambra State Government does not condone any form of assault or extortion. If any government official is found guilty, they will face the appropriate consequences,” Odumegwu stated. “We are committed to uncovering the truth of this unfortunate incident, but first, we must prioritize the victim’s medical condition and ensure his health needs are addressed.”
Akaneme was reportedly attacked on October 11 at his home on Obi Lane, America Quarters, Onitsha, after ASWAMA officials, accompanied by two policemen from the Onitsha Central Police Station, allegedly arrived at his residence over unpaid sanitation fees. Witnesses claimed that Akaneme was physically assaulted, leaving him with severe spinal injuries.
A close associate of Akaneme, Okechukwu Ani, described the incident, saying, “The team arrived early in the morning, demanding his arrest. Akaneme, still in his sleepwear, requested time to prepare, but they allegedly forced their way into his home.”
Akaneme was initially rushed to Holy Rosary Specialist Hospital in Onitsha before being transferred to Nnamdi Azikiwe Teaching Hospital in Nnewi, where doctors confirmed that his spinal cord had been 65% damaged. He was later moved to the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital in Enugu for advanced treatment.
The incident, which was widely shared on social media, has generated significant public outrage. Residents and human rights organizations have criticized the state government for its initial silence on the matter and are calling for accountability.
However, Commissioner Odumegwu reiterated that the state government is focused on ensuring Akaneme receives the best possible care.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Police Command has not yet issued an official statement on the incident. The command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, declined to comment, but a senior officer confirmed that the case has been referred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Awka for further investigation.
