The Anambra State Government, through the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare, has ordered an investigation into the alleged murder of Mrs. Ogechukwu Okafor, who was reportedly killed by her husband, said to be a pastor, Mr. Elijah Emeka Ibeabuchi.
The incident, which took place on August 13, 2024, in the Nimo community of Njikoka Local Government Area, was brought to the ministry’s attention by the deceased’s family.
A press statement issued on Wednesday by Chidimma Ikeanyionwu, media aide to the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, detailed that the husband initially claimed Ogechukwu had died after falling from a four-storey building.
However, Ogechukwu’s family, led by her uncle, Mr. Samuel Onuorah, contested the account, revealing that upon inspecting her body at the mortuary, they discovered she had been stabbed in the neck and chest, contradicting the husband’s claims.
The statement further explained: “Mr. Samuel Onuorah, from Abatete community, who led the family to lay the complaint at the ministry, alleged that he got a call from her late niece’s husband that Ogechukwu fell from a four-storey building and died. However, upon visiting the mortuary, it became evident that she was killed with a knife, as the injuries on her body did not align with a fall.”
In response to the allegations, the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, Ify Obinabo, pledged that the Anambra State Government would thoroughly investigate the case. She urged all stakeholders, women’s groups, human rights activists, and the public to lend their support to ensure justice is served.
Commissioner Obinabo also emphasized the state’s commitment to the case, stating, “We will ensure that the late Ogechukwu receives justice, and I will personally inform the governor about the matter.”
The state government has vowed to leave no stone unturned in its pursuit of justice for the deceased, as the probe into the circumstances surrounding her death unfolds.