The Delta State capital was thrown into shock on Monday after three young men lost their lives in a violent clash near ‘B’ Division, Asaba—an incident authorities now describe as a deliberate and lawless attack led by a prominent community chief.
The Police Command, in a statement released today, announced a full-scale manhunt for Chief Jerry Nkeeshe, the Owelle of Onicha-Olona, and members of an armed gang allegedly involved in the brutal killings.
According to the statement, Chief Nkeeshe reportedly led a group of vigilantes and suspected cultists—some startlingly dressed in Army camouflage—to a disputed parcel of land in Okwe along the Asaba–Onitsha Road, with a mission to enforce an unauthorized quit notice without a court order.
It stated that resistance from youths at the scene escalated the confrontation, with the armed group allegedly opening fire indiscriminately, adding that three youths sustained severe gunshot wounds and were later confirmed dead in the hospital.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, who condemned the attack as “reckless, unprovoked, and utterly unacceptable”, said tactical units, intelligence teams, and specialized investigators have been deployed to smoke out everyone involved—no matter their title or influence.
Residents of Onicha-Olona, Asaba, and neighboring communities have been urged to assist with credible information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects. The CP assured the public that normalcy has been restored, with sustained patrols and surveillance already underway to prevent further unrest.
NIM
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, encouraging citizens to report suspicious movements or sightings through its emergency line: 08036684974.
SP Bright Edafe, Police Public Relations Officer, signed the release, assuring that justice will be pursued relentlessly.
