Gunmen suspected to be assassins have killed Barr. Ifeanyi Iloakasi, an Anambra-based lawyer and President General of Aguleri community, along with his client on Wednesday while they were returning from a court session.
The attack occurred at the Nanka/Agulu boundary in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, where the assailants ambushed and shot the victims. According to reports, the lawyer's client attempted to escape by jumping out of the red Toyota Camry driven by Iloakasi but was pursued and shot dead by the attackers.
Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the incident, with Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu personally visiting the crime scene at Egbebelu village, Nanka, on Thursday morning. Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga revealed that a third victim survived the attack and is currently receiving medical treatment.
"Preliminary investigations suggest that the victims were attacked while returning from the court session, having been trailed and double-crossed by the assailants operating on a motorcycle," Ikenga stated. "The survivor has been debriefed by the police and has provided crucial information that is aiding ongoing investigations and manhunt operations."
Sources close to the matter indicated that the attack might be connected to a recent court case where Barr. Iloakasi had secured the release of an accused person in a pending murder case at High Court II, Ekwulobia. This legal victory reportedly may have angered opponents, leading to what many believe was a targeted assassination.
"The bodies of the deceased have been recovered and positively identified by their respective families. A red Toyota Camry vehicle, believed to belong to one of the deceased, was recovered from the scene," the police spokesperson added.
CP Orutugu has ordered an intensive investigation into the incident and deployed tactical and intelligence teams to track down the perpetrators. The police have assured the public that they are working diligently to ensure justice is served in this case.
The murder of Barr. Iloakasi, who was not only a legal practitioner but also a community leader, has sent shockwaves through Aguleri community and the legal fraternity in Anambra State.
