The FCT Police Command has apprehended a 33-year-old man, Obinna Nwigwe, for allegedly shooting his friend, Andrew Philemon, following a heated argument at Najob Guest House in Bwari.
FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday, describing it as a concerning case of violent crime.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on 26 December 2024, when police officers responded to a distress call about gunfire. Upon arriving at the scene, they found 29-year-old Philemon critically injured from a gunshot wound. Nwigwe, armed with a pump-action rifle, claimed the shooting was in self-defence after the argument escalated.
“Police officers swiftly responded to the distress call and arrested Obinna Nwigwe at the scene. A search of his residence later revealed a shocking cache of weapons,” Adeh stated.
The search led to the discovery of an arsenal, including five Dane guns, an English-made single-barrel gun, an AK-47 magazine loaded with 29 rounds of 7.62 live ammunition, four live cartridges, 17 spent cartridges, a bow and arrows, various knives, a sword-stick, a toy gun, a taser, a bulletproof jacket, and several sets of police uniforms and boots.
SP Josephine Adeh further stated that Andrew Philemon is currently receiving treatment at the National Hospital in Abuja, while Obinna Nwigwe remains in custody as investigations continue.
The FCT Police Command reiterated its commitment to tackling violent crime and ensuring the safety of residents.
“This case highlights the need for vigilance and the dangers of illegal firearm possession. The suspect will face the full weight of the law,” SP Adeh stated.
Authorities have called on residents to report any suspicious activities to support ongoing efforts to combat crime.
FCT Police Commissioner, Tunji Disu, highlighted the vital role of community involvement in ensuring the safety and security of the area.
“The safety and security of our community rely on the active participation of all citizens. We urge everyone to report any suspicious activities to the police,” Disu said.
These efforts underline the ongoing dedication of the FCT Police Command to safeguarding lives, dismantling criminal networks, and ensuring public safety across the Federal Capital Territory.