A 23-year-old nursing student in Anambra State has been found dead in her off-campus hostel in Alor, a community in Idemili South Local Government Area. The victim, identified as Vivian Chilaka, was an ND II student at the College of Nursing Sciences, Alor. Her body was discovered on 14 June.
Scene of the Incident
A video clip recorded at the scene showed a small bloodstained knife in front of her room, a few steps from where her body lay. Within the compound, household items such as pots appeared slightly squeezed, indicating a struggle. A bloodstained stick was also found leaning against a wall. Unidentified individuals assessing the situation suggested the victim was attacked. “See where she is lying lifeless. She clearly struggled unsuccessfully for her life,” said one person wearing a white cassock.
Allegations Against Landlord
Residents claimed the victim was found dead amid prolonged intense pressure from her landlord, who allegedly sought a romantic relationship with her. However, PREMIUM TIMES could not independently verify this claim. The incident comes barely three weeks after another nursing student was found dead in her hostel room in Umulogho, Imo State.
Police Confirmation
Police spokesperson in Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga, a superintendent of police, confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday. He said the case is likely a murder. “Police operatives who visited the scene observed a deep cut on the deceased’s thigh, other visible marks of violence on her body and blood stains around the scene, suggesting that she may have been murdered,” he said.
Mr Ikenga stated that the landlord of the premises has been arrested and is being interrogated as part of ongoing investigations. “The body of the deceased has been deposited in a hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy,” he added.
Investigation Ordered
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, has ordered officers to expedite the investigation. Mr Orutugu gave the order after the case was transferred from the Nnobi Divisional Police Headquarters to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Awka, for “a comprehensive and discreet investigation.” The commissioner vowed that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted and reassured the public of the police's commitment to justice. He urged residents with “useful information” to come forward and assist the police.
