The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, has expressed concern over what he described as the growing moral and social challenges confronting society, urging parents and other stakeholders to strengthen guidance and emotional support for young people.
Orutugu spoke while reacting to the death of a 25-year-old female student whose body was discovered in Onitsha on June 18. Police said preliminary findings suggest the incident may have been a case of suicide, adding that a handwritten note believed to have been left by the deceased was recovered at the scene and is now part of the ongoing investigation.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Commissioner stressed that investigators were still working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, cautioning against speculation until the investigation is concluded.
The police chief said the development underscores the need for stronger parental guidance, sound moral upbringing and improved emotional support systems for young people. He urged parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the emotional well-being, behavioural changes and social interactions of their children and wards, noting that effective communication within families remains critical in addressing many social challenges.
Orutugu also called on community leaders, educational institutions, faith-based organisations and civil society groups to intensify advocacy, mentorship and counselling programmes aimed at promoting responsible living, resilience and positive values among youths.
The Commissioner directed the immediate transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, for a thorough and discreet investigation. He reaffirmed the Anambra State Police Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property while collaborating with relevant stakeholders to address emerging social issues affecting public safety.
