Police Brutality: Gov. Otu orders arrest of officer over death of 23-year-old in Cross River

By David Odama

The Cross River State Government has condemned in strong terms what it described as a “brazen act of lawlessness and abuse of authority” following the death of 23-year-old Onyekachi Moses in Calabar.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, the government lamented that Onyekachi, who sustained severe injuries allegedly from the reckless conduct of a police officer, died after battling for days in the hospital.

Governor Bassey Otu, according to the statement, has directed the immediate arrest and investigation of the officer responsible.

“His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has mandated the Commissioner of Police to effect the immediate arrest of the implicated officer and ensure a thorough investigation into this grievous misconduct,” the statement read. “Impunity has no sanctuary under this administration.”

The government further described the killing as a violation of human dignity and a betrayal of the principles of justice and security that uphold civil order.

“Those entrusted with protecting lives cannot become purveyors of fear and tragedy,” the release emphasized.

Governor Otu warned that any security agent who betrays the trust and responsibility of safeguarding lives will face the full weight of the law. “Let it be known unequivocally: this government will not shield any agent of the state who undermines justice,” he declared.

The state government also extended condolences to the bereaved family, assuring them of justice. “Our hearts are with the family of late Onyekachi in this painful hour. The Cross River State Government stands firmly with you and assures that justice will not be delayed nor denied,” the statement said.

The release further urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that the administration is committed to transparency and accountability. “We urge our people to remain peaceful and confident in our collective resolve to seek truth and enforce justice,” it added.

The government pledged to honour the memory of the deceased through decisive action and accountability.

“This government shall not relent until the assurance is clear that such impunity will never again be tolerated on our soil,” the statement stressed.

Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the sanctity of life, the rule of law, and his people-first philosophy.