By Odogwu Emeka Odogwu and Isaac Ojo, Awka
Security operatives in Uga community, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, have arrested a suspect, Chima Ofoeke, over the alleged murder of his 23-year-old former girlfriend, Mmesoma Umeorini.
The suspect, who is reportedly from Ebonyi State, allegedly confessed during interrogation to strangling the victim with her clothes in his room before putting her body in a bag and dumping it in a bush.
He reportedly attributed the killing to the breakdown of their relationship.
Following his arrest, Ofoeke allegedly led security operatives to the location where the victim’s remains were discovered and recovered.
The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Nnanna Oji Ama, said he had directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Awka, for further investigation.
Ama also ordered a comprehensive and diligent investigation to ensure that justice was served.
Reacting to the incident, the Ebonyi Town Union Association in Anambra State condemned the killing, reportedly carried out by a man from Ebonyi State following the breakdown of his relationship with the victim.
The President-General of the association, Amb. Moses Igwe, expressed condolences to the bereaved family and the entire Uga community, stressing that no disappointment or rejection could justify taking another person’s life.
Igwe called on the relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible were brought to justice.
He also appealed for calm amid anger and protests in Uga, urging residents not to blame the wider Ebonyi community for the alleged actions of one individual.
“We acknowledge the anger and protests across Uga Community and sincerely appeal for calm. We urge the people of Uga to distinguish the alleged actions of one individual from the wider Ebonyi population living peacefully in Anambra State.
“An entire community should not be made to suffer for the alleged crime of one individual,” he said.
Igwe reaffirmed the association’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, respect for host communities and the rule of law, urging residents to choose dialogue over hostility and justice over revenge.
