IGBOZURUOKE MEDIA

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has called on the Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu to take over the investigation of Igbokwe Prince Matthew Onyekaozuru, the Vice Chairman of Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area in Imo State, following his arrest for alleged carjacking in Lagos.

In a petition dated April 8, 2026, and addressed to the Inspector-General of Police at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, the civil society organisation said it had received “credible but deeply troubling information” regarding the arrest of the local government official by operatives of the Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Police Force.

According to RULAAC, Onyekaozuru was apprehended for alleged offences including carjacking and vehicle vandalism in the Festac area of Lagos State. 

The organisation also cited reports that the suspect was paraded by police operatives, including a tactical unit deployed around the Ladipo Market vicinity.

“We have received credible but deeply troubling information regarding the arrest of one Igbokwe Prince Matthew Onyekaozuru… in connection with alleged offences including car snatching and vehicle vandalisation,” the petition signed by organization’s executive director Okechukwu Nwanguma stated.

The group further noted that the arrest followed a press briefing on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, by the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Olayiwola Fatai, outlining recent operational successes, including arrests linked to vehicle theft syndicates and vandalism.

RULAAC, however, raised concerns about the suspect’s status and alleged past conduct, stating that he is reportedly the current elected Vice Chairman of Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA and had allegedly been linked to previous violent crimes in Imo State.

“We have received disturbing allegations that in previous instances, the suspect escaped accountability despite arrest, raising critical questions about possible political interference, compromise of investigations, and systemic failure of accountability mechanisms,” the organisation said.

The advocacy group warned of a potential repeat of what it described as impunity if the investigation is not handled independently.

“Given the gravity of these allegations, there are credible concerns that the suspect may once again evade justice if the current investigation is not handled with strict professionalism, transparency, and independence,” RULAAC added.

The organisation also expressed concern about the broader implications of the case, noting that it could undermine public trust in governance.

“This case highlights a troubling pattern: the potential infiltration of political office by individuals alleged to be linked with serious criminal activity. Such developments undermine public trust and pose risks to democratic governance and the rule of law,” the petition read.

RULAAC called on the Inspector-General of Police to take specific actions, including ensuring an impartial investigation, reviewing prior cases involving the suspect, and probing any officers who may have facilitated alleged previous evasion of justice.

“RULAAC respectfully calls on your office to ensure that the ongoing investigation is conducted professionally, impartially, and without interference, and that the suspect is prosecuted if credible evidence is established,” it stated.

The organisation maintained that the credibility of the Nigeria Police Force depends on consistent enforcement of the law regardless of status, adding that the case presents an opportunity to reinforce public confidence in policing and accountability. (Sahara Reporters)