Tension has gripped Bende Local Government Area of Abia State as hundreds of residents trooped to the streets on Friday, October 24, 2025, protesting the alleged extrajudicial killing of one Mr. Okorie Wisdom by a police officer.
Eyewitnesses said Wisdom was reportedly beaten to death by a police officer on Wednesday evening despite committing no offence — a development that has provoked outrage and widespread condemnation from the community.
Angry protesters, including youths, men, and women, marched to the Bende Police Station, demanding justice for the victim’s family and accountability from the police authorities. Videos circulating on social media showed large crowds surrounding the station, while armed police and military operatives were deployed to prevent an attack on the facility.
A resident identified as @Marvel10938107 on X (formerly Twitter) recounted how he had earlier warned police officers at the station about their alleged misconduct. Another user, @Nwikbaba_001, expressed anger over the incident, saying, “This is exactly why people no longer trust the police. How can those meant to protect lives be the same ones taking them?”
Similarly, @OlusegunBigfish, who tagged the Nigeria Police Force’s official handles, accused the police of indifference, stating that authorities “only respond when people protest.”
As of the time of this report, the Abia State Police Command has not issued any official statement regarding the incident.
Meanwhile, The People of Abia, a local civic group, condemned the killing, describing it as “an outrageous act of police brutality.” The organisation urged the state government and the Inspector-General of Police to ensure a full investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
This tragic event adds to growing public concern over persistent police brutality and human rights violations in Nigeria, especially across the South-East region. Many citizens and rights groups continue to call for sweeping reforms and greater accountability within the nation’s security agencies.
