The Imo State chapter of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) has condemned in totality the gruesome murder of a lawyer, Chinedu Nwowu Esq. in Orlu.
The killing, which occurred on Wednesday, January 22, at Mgbidi, has sparked widespread controversies and fear across the state.
According to a statement from the Imo State NBA chairman, Chris Ihentuge and made available to the Press, the murder is “heinous and gruesome”.
He said: “I condemn in the strongest terms the heinous and gruesome murder of Chinedu Nwowu, Esq., who was tragically shot dead by yet-to-be-identified assailants.
“I have reached out to the Chairman of the NBA Orlu Branch, and we will also engage other Branch Chairmen as we collectively decry this horrific incident and demand accountability.
“I call on the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, to launch a thorough investigation and ensure that the perpetrators of this barbaric act are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice”, the statement read.
“On behalf of the Nigerian Bar Association, Owerri Branch, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the members of the Oru/Oguta Lawyers Forum.
“May you find strength to endure this devastating loss with courage and fortitude”, he stated.
According to a source, the Chairman of the NBA Orlu Branch, Ben Amukamara, expressed the association’s sadness over the incident
“He noted that the legal community in Imo State is in deep sorrow over the growing insecurity, which has now claimed the life of one of them..
“The NBA has called for swift justice and increased security to ensure the safety of its members.
“The incident has further heightened tensions in Imo State, with residents and professionals alike calling for an end to the violence plaguing the region,” he added.
Reports indicate that Nwowu, a well-known lawyer, was ambushed and shot by unidentified gunmen in his hometown.
Sources revealed that the assailants intercepted his vehicle and opened fire, killing him instantly.
The motive for this heinous act remains unclear, leaving the legal community and residents in shock.