Friends and Colleagues Mourn as Gunmen Kill Imo Lawyer, Police Begin Investigation
The Imo State legal community and residents of Mgbidi are in deep mourning following the tragic death of a prominent lawyer, Chinedu Nwowu, who was shot and killed by unknown gunmen in the early evening hours of Wednesday, January 22, 2025. Nwowu, a respected member of the legal profession based in the state, was gunned down in the Oru West Local Government Area, leaving behind colleagues, friends, and family members who are struggling to come to terms with the brutal murder.
The incident occurred around 7:00 PM when Nwowu was driving along the Mgbidi highway. Eyewitnesses reported that the lawyer’s vehicle was suddenly overtaken in a dangerous maneuver by another car, which then blocked his path. According to one source, who witnessed the event unfold, the gunmen swiftly exited their vehicle, approached Nwowu’s car, and forcibly dragged him from his vehicle.
“We just saw a car overtake the man’s car dangerously, and right before our eyes, the boys carrying guns jumped out and stopped the man’s car. They pulled him out, and in a flash, they shot him several times. It all happened so fast, and before we knew it, they got back into their car and sped off. We were all lying flat on the ground for fear of our lives, watching helplessly as the attack unfolded,” the source said, clearly shaken by the terrifying ordeal.
The attack, which lasted less than five minutes, left the local witnesses in a state of shock. After the gunmen fled the scene, some onlookers immediately rushed to Nwowu’s aid, transporting him to a nearby hospital in an attempt to save his life. Unfortunately, the lawyer was pronounced dead upon arrival at the facility, and despite the efforts of medical personnel, his injuries were too severe.
The news of his death has since sent ripples of grief throughout the legal community and beyond, with many expressing disbelief and horror over the brutal nature of the attack. Henry Okoye, the spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, confirmed the incident on Thursday, January 23, 2025. In a statement, Okoye assured the public that the police were doing everything in their power to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
“We can confirm the murder of Mr. Chinedu Nwowu, a respected lawyer, in the Mgbidi area. This is a tragic event, and we are committed to bringing the responsible individuals to justice. Our officers are already investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, and we will ensure that the perpetrators face the full wrath of the law,” Okoye said.
As the police investigation continues, the murder of Nwowu has sent shockwaves through the legal community in Imo State. In response to the tragedy, all courts in Mgbidi, Oguta, and Omumma areas have suspended their sessions for the day on Thursday, January 23, in a show of solidarity and respect for the slain lawyer. This unprecedented move underscores the immense impact of Nwowu’s death on his colleagues and the local judicial system.
Source: LIB
