A tragic incident unfolded along the Umuezegwu-Mbawsi road in the Isiala-Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State as a yet-to-be-identified naval officer reportedly shot and killed a man identified as Majo Nwogu.
The fatal encounter occurred when Nwogu, riding his motorcycle, refused to halt at a naval checkpoint.
According to eyewitness accounts, Nwogu’s refusal to stop infuriated one of the naval personnel, leading to a fatal shot being fired into his back. Despite efforts to rush him to the hospital, Nwogu succumbed to his injuries before medical attention could be administered.
Conflicting narratives have emerged regarding the circumstances of the shooting. While the Navy claims Nwogu was implicated in a tricycle theft and was shot during an altercation while being apprehended, locals allege that he was killed simply for not complying with the demand to disembark and walk through the checkpoint.
The naval personnel reportedly fled the scene following the shooting, leaving bystanders to transport Nwogu’s body to a nearby mortuary. Rear Admiral Ayo-Vaughan, Director of Naval Information, confirmed the incident, asserting that investigations are underway to ascertain the full details of what transpired.
This tragic incident has sparked outrage among residents, highlighting concerns over the conduct of security forces at checkpoints and the need for accountability in such encounters.
