A Spiritualist allegedly murdered four children of the same family in Igbo Eze South, Enugu State, over the weekend. The Guardian learnt that the victims were Kamsiyochukwu Ezema (seven), Ezine Ezema (six), Ujunwa Ezema (five), and Chinedu Ezema (two).

They were reportedly killed with a pestle by a pastor of a Sabbath church in the area, whose name has been withheld. The motives behind the killings remain unclear, but sources said the compound was used for unauthorised herbal medicine practices, informal psychiatric services, and other spiritual activities.

The chairman of Igbo Eze South Local Council, Ferdinand Ugwueze, has ordered the sealing of the compound where the crime occurred. Ugwueze, who visited the family with security operatives yesterday, expressed outrage over the murders and vowed that justice would be served.

He said: “Our community was shaken by the tragic and heinous murder of four innocent children in Ibagwa-Aka, Igbo Eze South Local Council. I am deeply saddened by this act of senseless violence and extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of the victims.

“Following preliminary investigations, law enforcement agencies have apprehended some key suspects in connection with the crime, while still searching for others yet at large.

“We are fully committed to supporting the ongoing investigation and ensuring that justice is served.

“We ask for the continued cooperation of law abiding members of the public, civil society organisations, as we urge anyone with relevant security information to exercise the liberty of assisting law enforcement authorities with the same, as confidentiality is always guaranteed.”

The devastated parents, Chinonso Ezema and Loveth Ezema, who were away during the incident, are demanding justice. The father said, “We want the police to thoroughly investigate this and ensure the culprit is brought to book.”

Meanwhile, a young girl, Chisom Ayogu, has died following a beating she reportedly received from her ex-boyfriend, Ogbonna, in Nsukka Local Council of Enugu State.

It was learnt that Chisom, who was about to get married, had gone to share the news of her forthcoming marriage with Ogbonna at his residence on New Anglican Road, Nsukka.

Chisom, who hailed from Amufie community in Igbo-Eze North Local Council, visited Ogbonna to inform him about her wedding plans. However, the visit took a tragic turn after a disagreement led to Ogbonna assaulting her violently for reasons that are yet to be determined.

A resident of the area, who spoke anonymously, said Chisom was already unconscious by the time help arrived. She was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

The source added that Ogbonna, from Igogoro community in Igbo-Eze North Local Council, has been arrested by the police for interrogation.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in Enugu State, Daniel Ndukwe, said he was “yet to be briefed on the matter.”