The Enugu State Police Command has confirmed the death of Ikechukwu Oloto, a prominent politician from Nsukka Local Government Area, popularly known as “Okanga Mo.” The 53-year-old was found with deep suspected machete cuts to his head and stomach inside his residence at Odenigbo, Nsukka, on the evening of Thursday, September 17, 2026.
Police spokesperson SP Daniel Ndukwe confirmed the incident on Friday, September 18, 2026, stating that officers were alerted at around 5:45 p.m. on September 17 that a man had been found in a pool of blood at the residence. Operatives promptly responded and discovered Oloto with severe injuries.
Police Confirm Death and Launch Manhunt
According to Ndukwe, operatives rushed Oloto to a nearby hospital, where an attending doctor pronounced him dead. His remains were subsequently moved to a mortuary for preservation and an autopsy. The police have launched a manhunt for the person or persons responsible for the attack, though no arrests have been announced.
Ndukwe said: "Investigation is ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding the murder of Ikechukwu Oloto, male, about 53 years old, in Nsukka. The police received a report on September 17, 2026, at about 5:45 p.m., that he had been found in a pool of blood in his residence. Operatives promptly responded and found him with deep suspected machete cuts to his head and stomach."
Political Context and Unclear Motive
The killing comes ahead of the 2027 general elections, drawing attention to the persistent threat of violence against politicians in Nigeria. Multiple sources familiar with the incident said Oloto was killed during the assault, though the exact sequence of events and the motive behind the attack remain unclear.
Unverified claims circulating on social media suggested a knife was also used, though Ndukwe's official account referred specifically to suspected machete wounds. The police have not named any suspect or indicated whether the killing was linked to Oloto's political activities. Ndukwe said investigators are working to piece together the full circumstances surrounding his death.
Oloto's Profile and Previous Incidents
Oloto was a known figure in Nsukka political circles. His death has been reported by The Punch and PM News, among other outlets. A photo of the slain politician has also emerged on social media, shared via an X post.
This incident follows a similar attack earlier reported by Legit.ng, in which gunmen killed the youth leader of the APC in Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State. The victim, Lucky Idoko, hailed from Unadu, a community in the council area. The police are continuing their investigation into Oloto's death, with no further details released at this time.
