Abia State Government has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation into the untimely demise of Emmanuel Onyeomereneche, a Cadet Officer from Abia State, who was discovered lifeless in the swimming pool of Hotel Royal Damgrate, Umuahia recently.
Speaking to the residents of Okwuta-Ibeku, Umuahia North LGA, who gathered to express their concerns regarding the deceased, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander Macdonald Uba (Rtd.), assured that a comprehensive inquiry would be conducted to uncover the circumstances surrounding the death. He emphasized that anyone found responsible would be held accountable.
Navy Commander Uba, expressing his condolences to the bereaved family and the entire Okwuta-Ibeku community, labeled the incident as regrettable. He promised to escalate the matter to the Governor and praised the peaceful conduct of the demonstrators, urging them to maintain lawfulness while assuring them of transparency in the investigation process.
“It is regrettable that a promising cadet officer of the Nigeria Defence Academy met his demise in such circumstances at Damgrate. We understand the investment the federal government puts into training each cadet officer.
“We have heard your grievances and will bring them to the attention of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Abia State. Though we cannot change what has transpired, we will ensure a thorough investigation is conducted to uncover any wrongdoing.
“This incident has had far-reaching implications. We will leave no stone unturned in our investigation, and justice will prevail. I empathize with your feelings as a former cadet officer myself, and I understand the impact on the village if such a tragedy occurred.
“I urge you to remain peaceful as we await the outcome of the investigation, including the unfortunate passing of the hotel manager. We will delve into all aspects of this matter and provide you with updates.”
During their earlier addresses, representatives from the Okwuta-Isieke Autonomous Community, the deceased’s family, and community leaders expressed disbelief over Emmanuel Onyeomereneche’s demise, questioning how a trained naval officer could drown in a seemingly ordinary swimming pool. They raised concerns about the involvement of a friend, Valentine Okpechi, and the hotel management, attributing negligence to the tragedy. They mourned the loss of their son, emphasizing its impact on the community.
The demonstrators, clad in black attire and carrying placards, somberly marched through the streets of Umuahia, chanting mournful songs.
