Enugu Police Arrest Man for Murder of 19-Year-Old Cousin Following Prior Abuse Reports

Enugu Police Arrest Man for Murder of 19-Year-Old Cousin Following Prior Abuse Reports

The Enugu State Police Command has arrested 51-year-old Emeka Emmanuel Nwangwu, a security man and member of the Neighbourhood Security Watch Group, for the brutal murder of his 19-year-old maternal cousin, Loveth Uloma Nwangwu, in Nsukka.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the victim had previously reported cases of defilement, sexual abuse, abduction, and threat to life to Umabor Police Station on November 28, 2025, alleging she had been living with the suspect since age 13 following the death of his wife. She claimed Nwangwu restricted her communication with family and subjected her to ongoing sexual abuse.

Attempts by the victim to escape to her family home were reportedly met with threats involving a firearm, forcing her back to the suspect’s residence in Ibeku-Opi, Nsukka LGA, where she was confined. Using a spare key, she eventually escaped and filed a police complaint. A medical report was issued, and both the suspect and his family were invited to the station, where he confessed and sought forgiveness. The victim’s family initially opted for spiritual resolution due to personal ties.

READ ALSO:

• Omoyele Sowore Pleads Not Guilty to DSS Cybercrime Allegations
• DHQ Clarifies Katsina Border Clash as Nigeria, Niger Strengthen Security Cooperation
• BREAKING: Tinubu Appoints General Christopher Musa as New Minister of Defence

Tragically, while the victim was receiving treatment at a pharmacy in Nsukka, Nwangwu allegedly forced his way in, assaulted her, and struck her head repeatedly, resulting in fatal injuries. She was taken to the hospital, where her death was confirmed. The suspect was subsequently rearrested and is now in police custody.

Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, condemned the crime and the inhumane manner in which it was committed. He assured the public that justice will be served and directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (State CID) to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure the suspect is charged to court promptly.

The case highlights serious concerns over sexual abuse, incest, and gender-based violence in Enugu State, prompting authorities to reiterate their commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens.

Enugu Police Arrest Man for Murder of 19-Year-Old Cousin Following Prior Abuse Reports