Table of Contents
- Ultimatum Issued
- Potential Legal Action
- Response to Press Statement
- Client's Alibi
- Allegations of Reputation Damage
- Defamation Action Warning
- Concern for Client's Safety
- Call for Investigation
- Police Response
- Community Reaction
The Owelle of Onicha-Olona, Chief Jerry Nkewheshe, through his legal representative, Kelechi Nnadi, has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, and the state's Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, demanding the retraction of a statement made by the Command. The statement accused the traditional ruler of leading armed men who allegedly killed three youths in the Okwe community near Asaba.
Nnadi indicated that legal action is being contemplated against the Commissioner of Police and the PPRO should they fail to retract the statement.
Speaking to the media in Asaba on Wednesday, Nnadi Esq. stated that he was responding to a publication and press release issued by Mr. Edafe, which identified Chief Nkeweshe as a suspect in the incident stemming from a land dispute.
The lawyer emphasized that his client was neither in Okwe, Asaba, nor anywhere near the area on the day of the incident, noting that he had left to address health issues in Umunede.
He asserted that this recent development is yet another attempt to tarnish his client’s reputation.
“This is not the first time the Commissioner of Police has tried to damage my client’s image. I will not let this go unchallenged,” he declared.
“We intend to take action against the Commissioner of Police for defamation and for implicating my client in a manner that suggests he is criminally responsible and complicit,” he warned.
“We will formally request that he retract this publication within 14 days; failure to do so will result in a lawsuit against him and Bright Edafe, alongside other actions before the Police Service Commission.”
He expressed concern that the allegations could endanger his client’s life.
“Is this how to enforce law and order in a state? You go to the press and put a man’s life at risk. The families of the deceased may seek to harm him, accusing him of something he did not do.”
The lawyer urged journalists to investigate the actual ownership of the disputed land and verify claims independently, emphasizing that the matter is already under judicial consideration.
“There is absolutely no connection with the land. We are already in court regarding that issue. Let the Commissioner of Police apprehend the actual perpetrators.”
As of the time this report was filed, the Delta State Police Command had not provided a new response to the lawyer’s assertions.
The killings in Okwe have escalated tensions, prompting residents and stakeholders to demand a thorough investigation and the prosecution of those responsible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ultimatum given to the Delta State Commissioner of Police?
Chief Jerry Nkewheshe's legal counsel has given a 14-day ultimatum to withdraw a statement alleging his involvement in a violent incident.
What will happen if the statement is not retracted?
If the statement is not retracted, legal action for defamation will be initiated against the Commissioner of Police and the PPRO.
What concerns were raised regarding the allegations?
Concerns were raised that the allegations could jeopardize Chief Nkewheshe's safety, potentially putting him in harm's way from the families of the deceased.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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