Elijah Emeka Ibeabuchi, a pastor based in Anambra, has been accused of fatally stabbing his wife, Ogechukwu Okafor.
According to Tribune Online, the tragic incident unfolded on August 13, 2024, and was reported to the State Ministry of Women and Social Welfare by the deceased’s family over the weekend amid concerns about irregularities and threats from the suspected husband.
Mr. Samuel Onuorah, an uncle of Ogechukwu from Abatete, recounted receiving a call from Ibeabuchi, who claimed that Ogechukwu had fallen from a four-story building and died.
Pursuing justice at the office of the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mr. Onuorah revealed that they uncovered evidence suggesting the young woman had not fallen but had been brutally murdered. Medical examinations revealed multiple stab wounds to her neck and chest inflicted by Elijah.
The family’s suspicions were confirmed after visiting the mortuary where Ibeabuchi had deposited Ogechukwu’s body; they observed clear signs indicating she had not fallen.
Additionally, the family alleged that Mr. Ibeabuchi was attempting to use their newborn baby for ritualistic purposes. During a violent struggle over the child, he allegedly stabbed Ogechukwu and also inflicted wounds on her hand.
The family has called on the state government to intervene and ensure justice for their beloved daughter.
In response, Honourable Ify Obinabo, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, has appealed to stakeholders, women’s groups, human rights activists, and social media users to join the government in securing justice for Ogechukwu. She urged people to raise their voices in this matter and assured that she would inform the governor’s wife, who she believes will personally advocate for justice for the deceased.
