We’ll Investigate Every Unnatural Death, Anambra CP to Parents of 17-Year-Old Apprentice Found Dead in Awka

Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikoye Orutugu

The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikoye Orutugu, has emphasized that the police have a statutory duty to investigate any case of unnatural death, regardless of whether the deceased’s family wishes to pursue the matter.

This statement comes in response to the case of 17-year-old Chikamso Ejiofor, an apprentice who was found dead under suspicious circumstances in a residential compound at Umuzocha, Awka.

According to a press release issued by the Anambra State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, the family of the deceased has submitted a formal letter and sworn an affidavit indicating their decision to withdraw from pursuing the case further. The family reportedly cited the late Chikamso’s alleged history of unruly behavior as part of their reasoning.

However, CP Orutugu, while acknowledging the family’s position, reiterated that the Command is obligated under the law to investigate all cases of unnatural death thoroughly. He stated that this ensures justice, transparency, and the protection of public interest.

“The Anambra State Police Command will continue a discreet and professional investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of the young apprentice,” “The case has been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, for a detailed review aimed at establishing the actual cause of death.”the CP stated.

According to the police statement, on October 5, 2025, at approximately 10:55 a.m., the Command received a distress report from a female resident who had returned from a church vigil only to discover the lifeless body of a young male lying in her compound.

Responding swiftly, operatives from the Central Police Station, Awka, visited the scene, took photographic evidence, and evacuated the victim to a nearby hospital, where he was confirmed dead by a medical doctor.

Further investigation led to the identification of the deceased as Chikamso Ejiofor, a 17-year-old apprentice. The police subsequently traced and notified his parents.

“The parents voluntarily informed the police of their decision not to pursue the matter, citing personal reasons and alleged behavioral issues of the deceased. Their position has been documented via a sworn affidavit and formal withdrawal letter,” it stated.

Despite this, CP Orutugu reaffirmed that the withdrawal of interest by the family does not preclude a full investigation. The Command insists that the nature of the case warrants professional scrutiny to determine whether foul play was involved or if other criminal elements were at play.

The police have urged members of the public with relevant information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.