Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has expressed sorrow over the tragic death of well-known Enugu musician Okezie Mba, also known as Igbo Jah.
According to a statement from DSP Daniel Ndukwe, Police Public Relations Officer for the Enugu State Command, the musician was reportedly leaving the Tactical Squad Headquarters following a friendly visit when, under circumstances still unclear, a police officer discharged his rifle, fatally wounding him.
The incident took place around 8:10 p.m. on October 25, 2024, at the Tactical Squad Headquarters. The officer, a member of the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the Enugu State Police Command, has since been arrested and detained.
In a statement on Saturday, Governor Mbah described the incident as “unfortunate.”
“The unfortunate death of popular Ogene musician, Igbo Jah
“I received with a deep sense of grief the untimely death of Okezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo Jah, under a very sad circumstance. It is a huge loss for us as Ndigbo in general and Ndi Enugu in particular.
“He was one of the Enugu and Igbo talents, who continued to popularise the Igbo culture through their Ogene music.
“I have been briefed by the police and I have equally ordered a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure justice for him, his family, and fans around the world.
“On behalf of Ndi Enugu, I also send my heartfelt condolences to his family and fans. May God grant his soul eternal repose,” the statement said.