Police arrest 12 suspects linked to Anambra comedian's murder

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested at least 12 people over the killing of a well-known comedian and town crier, Isaac Nwosu, also known as “Aiza Nwosu”. This also includes other cult-related killings in Awka, the state capital.

The command denied claims that its officers took ₦600,000 to release Nwosu Jennifer, who is said to be a sister of one of the suspects.

SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesman for the command, made this clear during a press conference at the command's headquarters in Awka on Wednesday.

Ikenga stated that Jennifer's arrest and her later release were part of an ongoing investigation into the murder. He dismissed the allegations as false and challenged anyone claiming extortion or corruption against the police to provide solid evidence.

This clarification came after the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre raised concerns about Jennifer's safety after her return to the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu. This was amidst a dispute over an alleged ₦600,000 payment for her earlier release.

RULAAC released a statement on Tuesday saying Nwosu contacted them on September 6. She alleged that she had been arrested on August 31 and held for four days because the police were looking for her brother, who was wanted for a murder case.

She also claimed that ₦600,000 was paid on September 3 for her “administrative bail”, but no receipt was given. According to her, her phone was taken without a proper seizure form or property receipt.

The group claimed that the Commissioner of Police told them that Jennifer denied, in front of her lawyer, that ₦600,000 was ever asked for or taken from her.

RULAAC said this contradicted her earlier written statement to them. They also claimed that Nwosu had been rearrested and demanded to know where she was, her legal status, and her access to a lawyer and family. They warned they would take the matter to relevant police oversight and human rights bodies if these issues were not addressed.

In response to these claims, Ikenga said the command was aware of the concerns raised by RULAAC and had responded. He said, “Let me begin by thanking civil society organisations, human rights groups, and the media for their ongoing interest in policing, especially in promoting accountability and respect for human rights.

“The Command welcomes genuine scrutiny of its activities. But we are here today to clarify allegations around the arrest and release of Miss Jennifer Nwosu, especially the claim that ₦600,000 was paid for her release.

“Let me make this clear: the Anambra State Police Command did not ask for or take ₦600,000 or any amount as a condition for Miss Nwosu’s release.

“The Command is investigating a cult-related murder in Awka. As part of this investigation, the police are looking into individuals and circumstances that may help identify the killers and locate the main suspect who is still on the run.

“During questioning, which included her lawyer, Miss Nwosu denied talking to the suspect for over five years. However, police found evidence that she communicated with the suspect on the night of the incident. This included messages about the victim's death and warnings that the police were closing in on him.”

He explained that these were valid investigative matters the police had to clarify. Jennifer was released after agreeing to help investigators find the suspect who is still at large.

Ikenga said her release was linked to the ongoing investigation and the need to use every legal means to bring the main suspect to justice.

“The command has arrested at least 12 people in connection with the killing of Isaac Nwosu, also known as ‘Aiza Nwosu’, and other cult-related killings in Awka.

“RULAAC raised concerns, and we have addressed those. The police will not be distracted by claims of collecting money for release.

“The Command is aware of Section 83 of the Criminal Code of Anambra State, which talks about liability for anyone who helps after a crime.

“The Administration of Criminal Justice Law gives the legal framework for bail and criminal cases. The police will keep doing their job within the law and will take necessary steps if more investigation is needed.

“The command wants to make it clear that no ₦600,000 was demanded or collected for Miss Nwosu’s release. Her arrest was due to the ongoing investigation into a cult-related murder in Awka.

“Investigators found her communication with the suspect relevant to the case. She was released after agreeing to help police find the suspect.

“The investigation is still ongoing. The command is committed to accountability, professionalism, and respect for human rights.

“We welcome scrutiny, but we urge those making allegations of extortion or misconduct to support their claims with real evidence.

“As the law says, he who alleges must prove. The Anambra State Police Command will continue to pursue this investigation fairly and without bias, aiming to ensure justice is served.