Protests have intensified in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, as family and friends of Anthony Obodo, a 22-year-old graduate of the University of Port Harcourt, demand justice following his fatal shooting by police. The incident occurred last Thursday at the Ada George-Agip Junction when police officers allegedly attempted to flag down Obodo's vehicle. Eyewitnesses report that he was pursued by officers who claimed he refused to stop, leading to one officer firing three shots at him, resulting in his death.

The police spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, confirmed that Corporal Alfred Louis is the officer implicated in the shooting. Following the incident, the officer was reportedly attacked by angry youths who seized his weapon, but he was later rescued by fellow officers. Agabe stated that the involved officers have been arrested and are under investigation.

On Tuesday, protests resumed at the site of the shooting, with demonstrators carrying placards that expressed their outrage and demanded accountability. Messages on the placards included, "We are not safe anymore, Anthony Obodo was a friend, brother and son. Give us Justice," and "The police can no longer protect us. They took Anthony’s life."

Charles Chukwu, a leader among the protesters, emphasized the community's demand for justice, stating, "We will not remain silent while the police officer responsible for Anthony’s death went unpunished." He called on the Rivers State Government, police authorities, and civil society organizations to intervene swiftly to ensure justice for the grieving family.

The protests reflect a growing frustration with police brutality in Nigeria, where citizens increasingly feel unsafe from those sworn to protect them. Chukwu further urged the police to publicly parade the officer responsible for the shooting, asserting that such transparency is crucial for restoring public trust.

Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, addressed the protesters, condemning the actions of the officers involved and assuring them that appropriate disciplinary measures are being taken. He stated, "The Police will never cover anybody. Since that day they have been arrested and handcuffed."

The father of the deceased, Mr. Princewill Obodo, expressed his devastation over his son's death, claiming that the officers had abandoned their duties to commit the act. He revealed that the officers involved had been deployed to provide security at the Nigerian Bar Association's Annual General Conference at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium and were supposed to report back by 7 PM.

I want justice for my son because my son is innocent. The Police Area Commander has confirmed that my son is innocent," Mr. Obodo stated, fighting back tears. He described the profound grief that has enveloped his family since the incident, saying, "I feel broken. I feel highly broken. My heart bleeds. The entire family is heartbroken. We’ve been crying.

As the protests continue, the community remains united in their call for justice, demanding accountability from the police and a commitment to end the cycle of violence against civilians.