The father of the late Anthony Obodo, Princewill Obodo, has alleged that police officers were paid to kill his son, calling for justice over his death.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, Princewill claimed that the officers allegedly involved in the incident were initially deployed to provide security at the Nigerian Bar Association conference held at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Elekahia, Port Harcourt, before they were later moved to the area where Anthony was killed.
He further alleged that police authorities who visited the family’s residence confirmed that Anthony was innocent.
Princewill said the family had been deeply traumatised by Anthony’s death and appealed for justice for his son.
Earlier on Monday, youths staged a protest at Agip Junction, Ada George, over the alleged killing. The protesters blocked parts of the road and reportedly set tyres ablaze, disrupting vehicular movement in the area.
The situation was later brought under control following the arrival of the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, and members of his management team.
Addressing the protesters, Adepoju appealed for calm and assured them that justice would be served, adding that officers found culpable in the incident would be brought to book.
The Commissioner’s assurance came amid growing calls from the family and residents for a thorough investigation into Anthony’s death.
