Tension is rising in Port Harcourt after the fatal shooting of 22-year-old University of Port Harcourt graduate, Anthony Obodo, allegedly by police officers.
The incident has sparked protests and demands for justice from his family and community.
Anthony’s father, Princewill Obodo, accused the officers of being paid to kill his son. He told journalists that the policemen were initially deployed to provide security at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) conference in Elekahia but were later moved to the area where his son was shot.
Obodo further claimed that police authorities who visited his home admitted Anthony was innocent.
He called for a thorough investigation, saying the family had been left traumatised by the tragedy.On Monday, youths staged protests at Agip Junction, Ada George, blocking roads and setting tyres ablaze.
The unrest was calmed after Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, arrived at the scene.
Adepoju condemned the shooting, assured protesters that justice would be served, and confirmed that the officers involved were already in custody.
The commissioner said he had spoken with Anthony’s father and promised a meeting between the family and the suspects at police headquarters.
Eyewitnesses reported that the incident occurred last Thursday around 5 pm when Anthony allegedly failed to stop after being flagged down by police.
One officer reportedly opened fire, hitting him. Anthony then lost control of his vehicle, which struck three people.
The case has intensified calls for accountability in Nigeria’s policing system, with residents demanding swift justice for Anthony Obodo.
