A 25-year-old woman, Kehinde Onizeokaraga, was allegedly hacked to death by her estranged husband, Sodiq Ibrahim, during a peace meeting in Ado Ekiti. The suspect fled after the attack and is now being hunted by the police. The Ekiti State Police Command has ordered a full investigation into the incident.
Attack During Reconciliation Meeting
The incident occurred on Wednesday in Ado Ekiti, the state capital. According to reports, the couple, both from Kogi State, had been experiencing serious marital problems for some time. The issues reportedly became so severe that Kehinde had moved out of their matrimonial home.
A source familiar with the case said the suspect had been trying to reconcile with his wife, but she was not comfortable with the idea. The source stated, "I am aware they had issues in the marriage to the extent that the lady had left the man's house due to some irreconcilable differences. But recently, there were efforts by the suspect to resolve the issue with her, which the deceased was not comfortable with."
Fatal Escalation
During the peace meeting, Ibrahim allegedly brought out a machete and attacked Kehinde several times, leaving her with fatal injuries. After the attack, the suspect reportedly fled the scene and has remained on the run, while the victim's body was deposited at a mortuary.
Kehinde's cousin, Yussuf Lawrence, said Kehinde had no idea her husband would be present when she was invited to the meeting. "While Kehinde was preparing to leave Ado Ekiti, she was invited to the residence of her father's friend, who they said wanted to see her. Kehinde went to the residence on Wednesday morning, unaware that her husband would also be present," Lawrence said. "An attempt to resolve the couple's marital disagreement subsequently degenerated into the fatal attack."
Investigation and Manhunt
Lawrence also claimed that some people had already been arrested to assist with the investigation, although the main suspect was still at large. He further alleged that Ibrahim fled with Kehinde's mobile phone, which the family believes could contain useful information for investigators.
"We want Sadiq (Ibrahim) to be found and arrested. We want justice for Kehinde. Her parents are in pain, and my family is in serious agony. She didn't deserve this," Lawrence said.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ekiti State Command, Sunday Abutu, said the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, had directed that a full investigation be carried out. "The Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, has ordered a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure that the perpetrator is apprehended and brought to justice," Abutu said.
Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspect, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing are ongoing. The tragic incident is the latest in a series of reported cases of domestic violence in Nigeria, with rights groups repeatedly calling for early intervention in abusive relationships and stronger protection for victims.
