The Proprietor of Treasure Jireh Group of Schools, Engr. Izibeya Sorgwe, has raised the alarm over an alleged threat to his life by a police officer identified as ASP Ekeh, attached to the Zonal Command, Zone 16, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
Sorgwe, who spoke to journalists, alleged that the officer had been sending him threatening messages following a dispute arising from a land transaction involving one Mrs. Nwabueze Chinenye Maureen.
According to him, he sold a parcel of land to Mrs. Maureen for ₦5 million, but about five days after the transaction, she informed him that she was no longer interested in purchasing the property and requested a refund of the money she had paid.
He stated that the transaction was witnessed by the buyer’s legal representative, Barr. Peter, whom he identified as the Secretary of the Bayelsa State Baptist Conference of the Nigerian Baptist Convention. He added that two property agents, Mr. Barugu Onizibe and Mr. Rufus Ogio, also participated in facilitating the transaction.
The school proprietor explained that he immediately refunded ₦4 million to the buyer and promised to pay the outstanding ₦1 million balance.
He further disclosed that he later paid an additional ₦250,000, reducing the outstanding balance to ₦750,000, while assuring the buyer that the remaining amount would be settled.
Sorgwe, however, alleged that despite the partial refund and his commitment to pay the balance, Mrs. Maureen reported the matter to the police with the intention of using law enforcement to compel immediate payment.
He accused ASP Ekeh of abandoning neutrality and instead issuing what he described as threatening and intimidating messages.
According to Sorgwe, some of the messages allegedly sent by the officer read: “I blame myself, I gave myself all the insult. Remember, a stubborn grass cutter rests in the stomach of a bird.” Another message allegedly stated: “I hope you will not deny this your statement tomorrow. Take note, too personal.”
The proprietor described the messages as disturbing and said they had heightened fears for his personal safety.
He maintained that the matter was purely civil in nature and should not be turned into a criminal issue through intimidation or harassment.
Sorgwe said he has briefed his lawyers on the development and is considering appropriate legal steps to safeguard his rights and ensure his safety.
He noted that he is a card carrying member of Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) adding that he is member of League of Characters Club and would not indulge in fraudulent activities to tarnish his hard earned reputation.
He appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 16, and other relevant authorities to investigate the conduct of the officer and ensure that due process is followed.
As of the time of filing this report, ASP Ekeh and the Bayelsa State Police Command had not issued any official response to the allegations.
Editor’s Note: The allegations contained in this report are those of Engr. Izibeya Sorgwe. The police officer and other parties mentioned are entitled to respond, and their comments will be published when received.
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