Port Harcourt police shooting of Uniport graduate sparks protests

Tensions have risen in Port Harcourt following the fatal police shooting of Anthony Obodo, a 22-year-old graduate of the University of Port Harcourt. The incident occurred last Thursday around 5 pm when officers allegedly opened fire on Obodo’s vehicle after he failed to stop at a junction.

Obodo’s father, Princewill Obodo, has accused the officers of being paid to kill his son. He noted that the officers had previously been deployed for security at a Nigerian Bar Association conference before being moved to the area where the shooting occurred. The family is calling for a thorough investigation, stating that authorities had previously confirmed Anthony’s innocence.

The killing sparked protests by local youths at Agip Junction, Ada George, involving road blockades and the burning of tires. Rivers State Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju intervened to restore order, condemning the incident and confirming that the officers involved are currently in custody. Adepoju has promised that justice will be served and has arranged a meeting between the family and the suspects at the command headquarters.