The Ekiti State Police Command has confirmed that a 25-year-old woman, Kehinde Onizeokaraga, was allegedly killed by her husband, Sodiq Ibrahim, a meat seller, during what was meant to be a mediation meeting in Ado Ekiti. The incident occurred on Wednesday, September 10, after the couple's attempt to resolve marital disagreements degenerated into a fatal attack.
Details of the Fatal Attack
According to the deceased's cousin, Yussuf Lawrence, Kehinde was invited to the residence of her father's acquaintance on Wednesday morning, just as she was preparing to leave Ado Ekiti. She was unaware that her husband would also be present at the meeting, which was intended to reconcile the couple who had been living apart due to unresolved issues in their marriage.
"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. He added: "An attempt to resolve the couple's marital disagreement subsequently degenerated into the fatal attack."
The confrontation turned violent, with Ibrahim allegedly striking Kehinde repeatedly with a machete until she succumbed to her injuries. Her body has since been deposited in a mortuary.
Suspect at Large, Police Investigation Underway
After the attack, Ibrahim fled the scene and remained at large as of Thursday, September 10. Both the suspect and the deceased were originally from Kogi State. The Ekiti State Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, confirmed the incident and stated that Commissioner of Police Michael Falade has directed a thorough investigation to ensure the suspect is caught and prosecuted.
Lawrence also alleged that Ibrahim fled with Kehinde's mobile phone, which the family believes holds crucial evidence for the investigation. He noted that some individuals have already been taken into custody in connection with the matter, though he did not specify their identities or roles.
Family Appeals for Justice
The family has called on the police to intensify the search for Ibrahim. "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.
The Ekiti State Police Command has committed to carrying out a full investigation into the killing, with the Commissioner of Police ordering that all efforts be made to apprehend the suspect and bring him to justice.
