The Kogi State Police Command has acknowledged a lapse in the killing of Barrister Elias Ugwu last Friday, admitting that the Nsukka-based lawyer was mistakenly targeted. The tragic death of Barr Ugwu has plunged the people of Nsukka and the Nigerian Bar Association into deep mourning.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP. Williams Anya, the police mistakenly identified Barrister Ugwu as a member of an armed robbery gang that had raided banks the day before. The incident occurred in Anyigba, where Barrister Ugwu was present to negotiate the release of his kidnapped cousin.
The police clarified that a Tactical Team had been deployed to restore order after armed robbers had targeted three banks and police stations in Anyigba. Upon receiving reports of suspicious activity in a nearby village, the team approached a vehicle matching the description provided. Despite attempts to stop the vehicle, the driver evaded capture, prompting the police to fire shots at the tires, bringing the car to a halt.
Tragically, it was discovered that Barrister Elias Ugwu was among the occupants of the vehicle, and he sustained fatal injuries. The police statement highlighted that Barrister Ugwu and his companion were unaware of the bank robbery and had not reported their presence in the area, leading to suspicion of involvement in the criminal activity.
The Commissioner of Police expressed condolences to the family of the deceased, emphasizing that the incident could have been avoided if the occupants of the vehicle had complied with the police instructions to stop.
