The New Year celebrations in Nnebugwu autonomous community, Oguta Local Government Area, Imo State, took a tragic turn when a 35-year-old man, Chima Okafor, was reportedly set ablaze by his kinsmen over accusations of stealing a pair of jeans valued at N25,000.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of January 1, 2025, has left the community in shock, with calls for justice from the victim’s family and residents.
Chima, who was attending a crossover service at a Cherubim church, was reportedly dragged out of the church by Obinna Obiekea, popularly known as Losky, along with his wife, Nwamaka and their two sons, Eloka and Chidubem.
The suspects allegedly beat him before setting him on fire in their compound.
The victim’s father, Mr. Uche Okafor, recounted the horrific incident while submitting a petition to the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Aboki Danjuma.
“My son was attending the crossover service when he was accused of stealing a pair of jeans. They dragged him out of the church, took him to their house, and attacked him with weapons before setting him on fire,” Okafor said.
Chima was rushed to the Congregation of the Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ Hospital in Mgbele, Oguta, where he succumbed to severe burns later that day.
The grieving father has called on Governor Hope Uzodimma and President Bola Tinubu to ensure that justice is served.
“The suspects, Obinna and Chidubem are in police custody, but Nwamaka and Eloka are still at large.
We urge the authorities to apprehend them and ensure that justice is done,” he pleaded.
The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Obinna
and Chidubem Obiekea with the case transferred to the homicide unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri.
A police source revealed that an autopsy would be conducted in the presence of witnesses to strengthen the case file before it is taken to court.
“The suspects were arrested in Oguta and transferred to the CID for further investigation. We will ensure all legal processes are followed to achieve justice,” the source added.
The Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, also assured the public that the Commissioner of Police has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident.
“We want to reassure the public that this case will be pursued to a logical conclusion. No stone will be left unturned in ensuring justice for the deceased,” Okoye stated.
