The serene Ibagwa-Ani community in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State was thrown into shock and disbelief after a gruesome act of domestic violence unfolded on Sunday, January 26, 2025. A 33-year-old man, Sunday Echege, was arrested by the Enugu State Police Command for allegedly severing his wife’s left wrist with a machete over suspicions of infidelity.
The victim, identified as Chinonso Echege, is currently receiving medical treatment for her injuries. According to the police, the crime was committed at the couple’s residence in Ibagwa-Agu Farm Settlement. Concerned members of the community who witnessed or learned of the horrific act promptly alerted the authorities, leading to Echege’s arrest and the recovery of the weapon used in the attack.
Speaking on the matter, the spokesperson for the Enugu State Police Command, SP Daniel Ndukwe, stated, “Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspect, who has confessed to the crime, claimed he acted out of suspicion that his wife was involved in extramarital affairs. The machete used in committing the crime has been recovered and will be presented as evidence in court.”
SP Ndukwe further confirmed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for an expedited and thorough investigation. He added, “The suspect will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of investigations, and justice will take its course.”
The Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, expressed his outrage over the incident and assured the public of the command’s commitment to justice. In a statement, he directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the CID to ensure the suspect faces the full wrath of the law. CP Uzuegbu also emphasized the importance of peaceful conflict resolution among couples, urging, “Differences should be resolved through love, understanding, and legal means, rather than resorting to violent criminal acts that destroy lives and families.”
This tragic incident has reignited conversations about the prevalence of domestic violence in Nigerian communities. Advocacy groups and human rights activists have called for stricter enforcement of laws protecting vulnerable individuals, particularly women, in abusive relationships.
As the investigation unfolds, the community of Ibagwa-Ani grapples with the trauma of the incident, while many continue to question how such an act of brutality could stem from mere suspicion.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for societal education on managing conflicts and the severe consequences of domestic violence. Authorities and stakeholders are urged to intensify efforts to ensure such heinous crimes are not only prosecuted but also prevented through awareness campaigns and community support systems.
This is a developing story, and more details are expected to emerge as the police conclude their investigation.
PIONEER NEWS 