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By Sunny A. David, Awka
A former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ONICCIMA), Hon. Okey Akaneme, has died following injuries sustained during a violent encounter with agents of the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA).
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred at Akaneme’s residence during what officials described as a routine levy collection exercise.
ASWAMA agents, accompanied by armed police officers, allegedly stormed the home without prior notice. A confrontation ensued, during which Akaneme was reportedly assaulted in front of his family and the attack left him paralyzed with a broken spine.
After months of battling complications from his injuries, Akaneme passed away, sparking widespread anger and condemnation across Anambra State and beyond.
“It’s a tragic irony,” said a longtime associate. “Okey was a man who dedicated his life to improving this city. He believed in governance and dialogue and was ultimately failed by the very system he trusted.”
His death has reignited public outcry over the conduct of State revenue enforcement agencies, which many accuse of unchecked brutality, extortion, and abuse of power.
“This isn’t just about levies anymore,” said a civic group based in Onitsha. “It’s about impunity. The State’s enforcement machinery has become a threat to its own citizens.”
Akaneme was widely respected for his integrity and commitment to ethical business practices. During his tenure at ONICCIMA, he worked to build bridges between the public and private sectors, advocating for fairness and responsible governance.
“He believed government should protect its people, not harm them,” said a former colleague. “Now he’s gone and the silence from authorities is both painful and telling.”
Social media has erupted with calls for justice using hashtags like #JusticeForOkey, #OnitshaSpeaks, and #EndBrutality, as citizens demand accountability and reform.
Akaneme’s family remains devastated, seeking answers and justice. “He left the house healthy that morning,” a relative recounted. “He never walked again. Now he’s gone. Who will answer for this?”
The incident has renewed demands for a complete overhaul of revenue enforcement structures across Anambra State, amid broader concerns over human rights and governance.
As the State mourns the loss of a respected leader, one question echoes across communities: When will public institutions stop turning against the very people they are meant to serve?
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