“Man Who Cut Wife’s Hand Faces Murder Charge” — Court Remands Echeji, Transfers Case To DPP

Mr. Sunday Echeji, who allegedly cut off his wife’s hand, was arraigned before the Chief Magistrate Court 1 in Enugu on Friday. Echeji was charged with attempted murder under Section 275, Subsection A of the Criminal Code (Cap 30, Vol. 1, Revised Laws of Enugu State, 2004).

The incident, which occurred in Ugwuogede village, Ibagwa-Agu, Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State, has sparked widespread outrage across the state. Due to the severity of the charges, the Chief Magistrate Court transferred the case to the State Department of Public Prosecution (DPP), citing a lack of jurisdiction to try such serious offenses.

Echeji has been remanded at the Enugu State Correctional Centre pending the commencement of his trial at the State High Court.

The Office of the First Lady of Enugu State, led by Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, has been closely monitoring the case. In a public statement, Mrs. Mbah reiterated the administration’s commitment to ending violence against women and ensuring justice for survivors.

“This kind of violence will not be tolerated in our state. Rest assured, we will ensure that justice is served,” she declared. “So, think twice before you ever consider committing such a barbaric or inhuman act, or indeed any form of violence, because with this administration, you must face justice!”

Beyond this case, the Enugu State Government has intensified efforts to protect women and girls, strengthen legal frameworks, and support survivors of domestic violence. Stakeholders, including civil society organizations and law enforcement agencies, are collaborating to ensure that such cases set a strong precedent against all forms of violence.