The Commissioner of Police (CP) in Ebonyi State, Anthonia Adaku Uche-Anya, has strongly condemned the recent assaults on a journalist and two teenage girls in the state. The incidents, involving police officers and members of the public, have sparked public outcry and demands for accountability and justice.
Chinedu Ngwuta, CEO of the Abakaliki-based online television station, Direct Reporters, was attacked by a policeman attached to the wife of the state governor, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru. The assault occurred after a road walk organized by the First Lady.
During the attack, Ngwuta’s camera was destroyed, and he sustained injuries that required hospitalization. Speaking on the matter during a courtesy visit from the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the Police Command headquarters in Abakaliki, CP Uche-Anya expressed deep regret over the incident.
“I was not aware of this journalist’s issue until now. Police officers are employed to protect lives and properties, not to assault citizens,” she stated, vowing that the case would not be swept under the carpet.
The CP also decried the inhumane treatment of two teenage girls in Ngbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area, who were stripped and severely flogged for allegedly stealing a chicken. She described the act as barbaric and revealed that the suspects are in police custody.
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“These are secondary school girls who were mercilessly beaten and humiliated for stealing a chicken. Meanwhile, people who commit heinous crimes are not treated this way. We are working to ensure justice is served, and the suspects will be prosecuted,” Uche-Anya emphasized.
The CP urged witnesses and the families of the victims to come forward to provide evidence in court, assuring them of their safety and support during the legal process.
CP Uche-Anya reassured the public of a secure and peaceful yuletide season in Ebonyi State, urging citizens to report criminal activities to the police for prompt action. She also reiterated the importance of journalists and the police working as partners to ensure effective policing and public safety.
Comrade Uchenna Inya, Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, praised the Commissioner for the professionalism and order she has brought to the Ebonyi State Police Command. He called for continued collaboration between the press and the police for mutual respect and partnership in progress.
“The peace we enjoy in Ebonyi today is largely due to your leadership,” Inya said, urging police officers to see journalists as allies rather than adversaries.
