Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Tension has gripped Port Harcourt following the alleged police shooting of 22-year-old Anthony Obodo, a fresh graduate of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT). On Monday, August 31, 2026, angry youths took to the streets, blocking the Agip Road by Ada-George junction, setting tyres ablaze, and bringing vehicular movement to a halt. The protesters are demanding justice and the prosecution of the police officer allegedly involved in the killing.
The incident that sparked the protests occurred on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at about 5 pm. According to eyewitness accounts, the trouble began at a junction when police officers, reportedly deployed to provide security at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) conference at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, flagged down Obodo. An altercation ensued between the driver and the officers. The Rivers State Police Command's spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, stated that there was a scuffle between the duo, which led to a gunshot. A bullet struck Obodo, killing him instantly. Two other passers-by were also injured in the incident.
The police have identified the alleged shooter as Corporal Alfred Louis. Following the shooting, an angry mob attacked Louis, who sustained multiple injuries. The police have confirmed that Corporal Louis and members of his team have been detained and are currently at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) pending investigation. The command has condemned the killing, describing the action as unacceptable and a deviation from professionalism in policing. The police assured the public that they would not shield any officer found guilty of unethical conduct.
However, the family of the deceased is demanding more than just a detention. Anthony’s father, Princewill Obodo, has made a grave allegation, claiming that the police officers were paid to kill his son. He also alleged that police authorities who visited the family's residence confirmed Anthony's innocence. The family is calling for a thorough investigation and justice.
The protest has drawn significant attention. The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, arrived at the scene on Monday and addressed the protesters, assuring them that justice would be served. He disclosed that the officers involved were in custody and that a meeting involving the family and the suspects would be held at the command headquarters. The command has promised that the investigation will be conducted in accordance with the law.
For the people of Port Harcourt, the death of Anthony Obodo is a grim reminder of the ongoing struggle against police brutality. As the investigation continues, the demand for justice remains loud and clear: the alleged killer must face the full weight of the law.
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