Husband Detained in Owerri Over Wife's Tragic Death After Financial Argument
A husband has been taken into custody by authorities in Imo State following the death of his wife, which allegedly stemmed from a violent dispute over a relatively small sum of money. The incident has shocked the local community and raised serious questions about domestic conflicts and financial tensions within marriages.
Details of the Alleged Incident and Arrest
Kelechi Prince Okeke, a resident of Ngor-Okpala in Imo State, is currently being held at the homicide department of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri. He is accused of involvement in the death of his wife, Olumma Chizoba Lucy Akataobi, who originally hailed from Abia State. The tragic event reportedly occurred on Monday, February 2, after what began as a simple request for money escalated into a fatal confrontation.
According to initial reports, the conflict arose when Olumma asked her husband for N35,000 that a customer had paid into his bank account. The money was intended for her business, which she operated at the Relief Market in Imo State. The customer had attempted to transfer the payment directly to Olumma's account, but when the transaction failed, she provided her husband's account details as an alternative. After the husband confirmed receipt of the funds, Olumma returned home and requested the money to reinvest in her business, allegedly triggering a heated argument that turned physical.
Conflicting Accounts and Family Outcry
The circumstances surrounding Olumma's death remain under investigation, with conflicting narratives emerging from different parties. Kelechi has reportedly claimed that his wife was eating when she suddenly complained of chest pains, screamed "my chest, my chest," vomited, and subsequently passed away. He maintains that he was not responsible for her death.
However, Olumma's family strongly disputes this version of events. Her sister, Ezinne Akataobi, has publicly stated that the N35,000 payment was the direct cause of the altercation that led to her sister's demise. The family alleges that Kelechi's actions were violent and intentional, and they are now demanding justice for Olumma. In emotional statements, family members revealed that they had repeatedly urged Olumma to leave her husband and return home, emphasizing that she was loved and supported by her relatives. Despite packing her belongings on multiple occasions, she always ended up returning to her marital home, a pattern that has now ended in tragedy.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Reaction
Authorities in Owerri have taken charge of the case, with the homicide department actively investigating the matter to determine the exact cause of death and establish culpability. Photographs circulating online show Kelechi with his hands cuffed behind his back, indicating his current status in custody. The involvement of law enforcement underscores the seriousness with which this case is being treated, particularly given the sensitive nature of domestic violence allegations.
The incident has sparked widespread discussion about the pressures of financial management within households, the escalation of domestic disputes, and the need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms. As the investigation continues, the community awaits further developments, hoping for clarity and justice in this heartbreaking situation. The case serves as a stark reminder of how seemingly minor disagreements can have devastating consequences when not handled with care and respect.
