Family Demands Justice After Woman Allegedly Beaten to Death by Husband in Owerri
A tragic incident has shaken the community of Owerri in Imo State, as a 29-year-old woman, Olumma Chizoba Lucy Akataobi, lost her life allegedly due to domestic violence. The incident occurred around 11pm on Monday, February 2, leaving her family in deep anguish and calling for immediate justice.
Heartbreaking Details of the Alleged Assault
According to family members, Olumma was allegedly beaten to death by her husband, Kelechi Prince Okeke, a drug seller. The dispute reportedly stemmed from a financial matter involving N35,000 that a customer had paid into Kelechi's account. Olumma had requested the money to use for her business turnover the following day, but the situation escalated violently.
In a video shared online, Olumma's lifeless body is seen lying on the floor, with a male voice crying out her name in agony. A female voice in the background can be heard lamenting, "So, this girl has died." The footage has sparked widespread outrage on social media, highlighting the grim reality of domestic abuse.
Family's Emotional Plea for Justice
Ezinne Onyedikachi Brenda Akataobi, the sister of the deceased, has made a passionate appeal to Nigerians for help in securing justice. In a video posted on her Facebook account, she tearfully questioned, "Olumma, who did you leave your children for? Olumma, you allowed Kelechi to beat you to death. Olumma, who did you leave your two children for?"
Ezinne emphasized that her sister was not sick and had been active earlier that day. She narrated how Olumma had gone to Bush Market to buy goods for her business and had even made plans to return by 5am on Tuesday, February 3, to purchase vegetables. Tragically, she was killed before she could fulfill those plans.
Allegations of Deception and Past Warnings
Ezinne further claimed that after the alleged beating, Kelechi tried to cover up the crime by lying that Olumma was eating and suddenly started complaining of chest pains before she died. She expressed disbelief and anger, stating, "Kelechi, you'll prove it."
The family revealed that they had repeatedly warned Kelechi against beating Olumma and had always welcomed her back home. However, Olumma would often return to her husband, despite their pleas. Ezinne recalled telling her sister, "Olumma come back home, Olumma stay home, you're welcome at home, you're loved."
Current Developments and Call to Action
In an update, Ezinne confirmed that Kelechi is currently detained at the homicide department of the State CID in Owerri. The family continues to demand a thorough investigation and justice for Olumma, whose death they attribute solely to domestic violence.
This case underscores the urgent need for stronger measures against domestic abuse in Nigeria. As the family mourns their loss, they hope that their cries for justice will lead to meaningful action and prevent similar tragedies in the future.