UNIPORT Graduate: Father Alleges Policemen Left NBA Duty Post Before Son’s Killing

The family and friends of 22-year-old University of Port Harcourt graduate, Anthony Obodo, have continued to demand justice following his alleged killing by policemen in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The incident occurred at the Ada George-Agip Junction, where Obodo was reportedly driving a private vehicle when policemen at a checkpoint allegedly flagged him down for failing to stop. According to reports, the officers chased the vehicle, after which one of them allegedly fired three shots in Obodo’s direction. One of the bullets reportedly struck him while he was inside the vehicle, and he was later pronounced dead at a hospital.

The incident has sparked protests by members of the deceased’s family, friends and other concerned residents. During the demonstrations, protesters called on the Rivers State Government, police authorities and other relevant institutions to ensure that the circumstances surrounding Obodo’s death are thoroughly investigated. They also demanded that the officer alleged to have fired the fatal shot be held accountable if found responsible.

The Rivers State Police Command has identified the alleged shooter as Corporal Alfred Louis and stated that he, alongside other officers involved in the incident, had been arrested and detained. The police also said that youths attacked Louis following the shooting and took his rifle, although other police operatives later rescued him and recovered the weapon. The State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, appealed for calm and assured the protesters that the police would not protect any officer found culpable.

However, Obodo’s father, Princewill Obodo, has raised further concerns about the circumstances leading to the incident. He alleged that the policemen involved had been deployed to provide security at the Nigerian Bar Association’s Annual General Conference at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Elekahia, Port Harcourt. According to the father, the officers were expected to remain at their assigned duty post and return by 7pm, but allegedly left the conference venue before the incident occurred.

The grieving father said he was informed by the Divisional Police Officer that the officers had left their assigned duty post. He further stated that both the Police Area Commander and the relevant DPO had confirmed to the family that his son was innocent. He is therefore calling for a full investigation and justice for his son, while urging Nigerians and the relevant authorities to ensure that the matter is not overlooked.

The case has continued to generate public concern, particularly over questions surrounding police conduct, accountability and the circumstances that led to the death of the young graduate. With the officers reportedly in custody, attention is now focused on the investigation and whatever legal or disciplinary action may follow. The family maintains that Anthony deserves justice and wants the authorities to provide clear answers about what happened on the day of his death.