Anambra probes alleged assault on ex-chamber of commerce boss

The Anambra State Government has commenced an investigation into the alleged brutalisation of a former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, Okey Akaneme, by officials of the state Waste Management Agency and police officers.

The state Commissioner for Environment, Felix Odumegwu, confirmed the probe when contacted by our correspondent on Monday, adding that while the government does not condone assault, preliminary findings suggested that ASWAMA officials may not be responsible.

“The Anambra state government does not condone assault or touting of any kind and if any government agent is found culpable, he will face the consequences.

“We must unravel the unfortunate incident but first and foremost, we must know the medical condition of the victim and rescue health first if any,” Odumegwu stated.

Akaneme was reportedly attacked on October 11 at his residence on Obi Lane, America Quarters, Onitsha, after ASWAMA officials, accompanied by two policemen from Onitsha Central Police Station, allegedly stormed his home over unpaid sanitation fees.

Witnesses said Akaneme was manhandled, leaving him with severe spinal injuries.

A close associate, Okechukwu Ani, narrating the ordeal said, “The tteam entered Akaneme’s home early that morning, demanding his arrest. Akaneme, still in his sleepwear, asked for time to get ready, but the team allegedly forced their way in.