Police inspector bags death sentence for murder in Delta

In a landmark decision, the Delta State High Court in Asaba convicted Police Inspector Ubi Ebri to death for the murder of Mr. Ibeh Onyeka, a telephone repairer and vendor.

The event occurred on April 5, 2023, during a stop-and-search operation on the Ugbolu-Asaba Road.

The tragic event sparked widespread outrage and protests in the city, with youths taking to the streets to demand justice for the slain Onyeka.

During the trial, the prosecution, led by E.H. Edema, a Director in the Ministry of Justice, presented evidence that Inspector Ebri was part of the police patrol team conducting the stop-and-search operation. Onyeka and his wife were driving from Ugbolu to Asaba when they were stopped by the police.

Without provocation, Inspector Ebri opened fire on the vehicle, fatally wounding Onyeka with a bullet to the head. Fortunately, Onyeka’s wife, who was in the front seat, was unharmed.

Justice C.D. Diai, who presided over the case, found Inspector Ebri guilty of murder and sentenced him to death.

This ruling is seen as a significant step towards accountability and justice, highlighting the consequences of police brutality and misuse of power. The community and the family of the deceased have expressed relief and a sense of justice following the court’s decision.

(Vanguard)