The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested a 33-year-old man, Obinna Nwigwe, for allegedly shooting his friend, Andrew Philemon, after a heated argument at Najob Guest House in Bwari.
FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday, describing it as a troubling case of violent crime.
The shooting occurred on 26 December 2024, prompting a swift response from police officers following a distress call about gunfire. Upon arrival, they found 29-year-old Philemon critically injured from a gunshot wound. Nwigwe, armed with a pump-action rifle, claimed he acted in self-defence during the altercation.
“Police officers swiftly responded to the distress call and arrested Obinna Nwigwe at the scene. A subsequent search of his residence uncovered a startling cache of weapons,” Adeh stated.
The search revealed an arsenal that included five Dane guns, an English-made single-barrel gun, an AK-47 magazine loaded with 29 rounds of ammunition, four live cartridges, 17 spent cartridges, a bow and arrows, knives, a sword-stick, a toy gun, a taser, a bulletproof jacket, and several sets of police uniforms and boots.
SP Adeh reported that Philemon is currently receiving treatment at the National Hospital in Abuja, while Nwigwe remains in custody as investigations continue.
The FCT Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to combating violent crime and safeguarding residents.
“This case underscores the dangers of illegal firearm possession. The suspect will face the full weight of the law,” SP Adeh stated.
FCT Police Commissioner Tunji Disu emphasised the importance of community involvement in ensuring public safety.
“The security of our community depends on the active participation of all citizens. We urge residents to report any suspicious activities to the police,” Disu said.
This incident highlights the ongoing efforts of the FCT Police Command to dismantle criminal networks and ensure the safety of the Federal Capital Territory’s residents.
