Former Managing Director of the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Chief (Dr.) Uche Nworah, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Hon. Okey Akaneme, a former President of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ONICCIMA), who recently passed away under distressing circumstances.
In a heartfelt post on his verified Facebook page, Dr. Nworah paid tribute to Akaneme, describing his death as a painful loss to Anambra State and the wider business community. Akaneme, known for his active contributions to commercial development in Onitsha and beyond, reportedly died following a violent encounter with operatives of ASWAMA (Anambra State Waste Management Agency) and police officers during a revenue enforcement operation.
According to reports shared by associates, including a widely circulated post by Ozi Anieto, Akaneme sustained severe spinal injuries during the altercation at his residence, which left him paralysed. He eventually succumbed to complications from the injuries.
Dr. Nworah, in his tribute, decried the tragic end of a man who had given so much to his community. “Okey Akaneme was not just a business leader but a patriotic son of Anambra who served with integrity and commitment. His death is a sad reminder of how those who serve the public are sometimes failed by the very system they supported,” he wrote.
Nworah joined others in calling for justice and accountability, urging the state authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure such tragedies are never repeated. He extended condolences to Akaneme’s family, friends, and colleagues, praying that God grants them strength during this difficult time.
“Okey’s death must not be in vain. His spirit deserves justice,” he added.
As tributes continue to pour in from the Onitsha business community and beyond, the circumstances surrounding Akaneme’s death have sparked renewed calls for restraint, professionalism, and reform in revenue enforcement processes across the state.
