A 35-year-old man has been accused of killing his girlfriend following a dispute over alleged infidelity in a community in Cross River State, an incident that has triggered anger among residents demanding justice.
The tragic event reportedly happened in the early hours of Saturday, around 6:00 a.m., at a farm in Nwang Village, Ekajuk community, located in Ogoja Local Government Area. The suspect, identified as Malime Ejor, is alleged to have attacked his 26-year-old girlfriend, Moshie Igu.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the disturbance drew the attention of people nearby, but they arrived too late to stop what had already begun.
“We heard the commotion and noise and we rushed to the scene, but we were unable to prevent the situation because he was already using a machete on her.”
According to the source, the altercation was said to have started after the man accused his partner of being unfaithful. The argument reportedly escalated into violence, leading to the fatal attack.
“We could not do anything. We were able to hold him. Our youths caught him and later handed him over to security operatives,” he added.
The spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force in Cross River State, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the incident on Sunday, stating that an investigation is already underway and assuring the public that justice will be pursued.
“The suspect is currently in custody, and a full investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the police spokesperson stated.
He further explained that officers responded quickly after receiving the report and took the suspect into custody, preventing him from being harmed by an angry crowd.
“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives promptly visited the scene. The suspect was apprehended and rescued from an attempted mob action by angry youths. He is currently in police custody for his safety and ongoing investigation.”
Eitokpah also noted that arrangements were still being made regarding the victim’s remains, while the case would be transferred for further investigation.
“The victim’s remains are yet to be deposited at the General Hospital Mortuary, Ogoja, as necessary arrangements are being concluded. Meanwhile, the case is being prepared for transfer to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet and thorough investigation”, he explained.