The death of popular skit maker, Chidike Emmanuel, has sparked controversy and outrage on social media. Emmanuel was reportedly killed by suspected herdsmen in Abuja on Saturday, according to a netizen, Loveline Imaobong, who raised an alarm and shared a photo of the victim in a mortuary.
Lovelines Imaobong claimed that Emmanuel was among six persons attacked by herdsmen and that his family members were being sought. She posted on her ‘X’ account, “The guy in the picture is lying lifeless in the mortuary. He was attacked by Fulani men. Any lead to his family members would be appreciated. They should please go to Mpape’s new police station, Berger Quarry. Please repost till it gets to them. Six of us were attacked and he died in the process. We’re currently looking for information about any of his family members,” she wrote.
Lovelines Imaobong gave more update. She wrote, ”His closest relative in Abuja has reached out and visited the police station. The police are putting in efforts to make sure the perpetrators are apprehended. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this.”
However, another netizen, UrglyGramm, debunked this claim, stating that Emmanuel had no family in Abuja and that the police had not received any visit from his family members.
The controversy surrounding Emmanuel’s death has sparked a social media campaign with the hashtag #JusticeForChidi#, with many calling for justice and clarity on the circumstances surrounding his death. Netizens have expressed sadness and shock, with some describing the controversy as “appalling” and calling for closure for the family and friends of the deceased.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, could not be reached for comment, and the police have not issued an official statement on the matter.
Meanwhile, tributes have poured in for Emmanuel, with many describing him as a talented and promising young man. His death has sparked a wave of emotions as many call for an end to violence and senseless killings in the country.
An ‘X’ user called Daisy tweeting as #Adaherself wrote, ” I’m sorry Nigeria happened to you. I’m sorry Abuja happened to you Chidi. You only left Lagos to Abuja for solace, quite unfortunate it was truncated. Had it been you knew, you would have just remained in Lagos. Damn!! This one hurts.”
Our hearts go out to the family and friends of late Chidike Emmanuel.