Anambra-based pastor, Mr. Elijah Emeka Ibeabuchi, has allegedly stabbed his wife, the late Ogechukwu Okafor, to death in the state.
The incident, which occurred on August 13, 2024, was reported to the State Ministry of Women and Social Welfare by the deceased’s family over the weekend, following irregularities and threats from the alleged husband
Mr Samuel Onuorah, an uncle of the deceased from Abatete, alleged that he received a call from the late niece’s husband, claiming that Ogechukwu had fallen from a four-story building and died.
Seeking justice at the office of the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mr Onuorah noted that they discovered that their daughter did not fall but was instead killed with a knife, with multiple stab wounds to her neck and chest inflicted by Elijah.
He revealed that their doubts were dispelled after they visited the mortuary where the husband had deposited their daughter’s body, and saw evidence that she had not fallen from any building.
The deceased’s family also alleged that Mr. Ibeabuchi intended to use their newborn baby for ritual purposes. During a struggle over the baby with the wife, he reportedly stabbed her and also scraped her palm.
They have urged the state government to intervene and ensure justice for their deceased daughter.
In response, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Honourable Ify Obinabo, called on stakeholders, women’s groups, human rights activists, and social media users to support the government in ensuring that Ogechukwu receives justice.
She urged everyone to lend their voices to the matter and assured that she would notify the wife of the governor, whom she believes will take up the case personally and ensure justice for the deceased.