By Deborah Nnamdi
The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 51-year-old man, Emmanuel Nwangwu, for allegedly murdering his 19-year-old maternal cousin, Loveth Uloma Nwangwu, after she reported him for years of sexual abuse, abduction, and threats.
The incident occurred at a pharmacy in Umuabor community, Nsukka Local Government Area, where Loveth had gone to seek medical attention.
According to police findings, Emmanuel, a member of the local Neighbourhood Watch, took custody of Loveth in 2019 after the death of his wife, convincing her parents that he would support her education. Instead, he allegedly subjected the teenager to persistent sexual abuse, isolated her from her family, and repeatedly threatened to kill her and her relatives if she attempted to escape.
Police spokesperson Daniel Ndukwe said Loveth eventually escaped to the Umuabor Police Station on November 28, where she reported a case of defilement, sexual abuse, abduction, and threat to life. He said the suspect had earlier forced her back to his home in Ibeku-Opi after threatening her with a firearm as she attempted to flee to her family in Enugu-Ezike.
“She later escaped again using a spare key and reported the incident to the police, who issued her a medical report for examination. The suspect and family were invited to the station, where he confessed, sought forgiveness, and promised to return her property. The family, citing personal ties, initially chose not to prosecute but opted for spiritual cleansing due to the incestuous and abominable act,” Ndukwe stated.
Tragically, the situation turned fatal. While receiving treatment at a pharmacy in Nsukka, Emmanuel allegedly stormed into the facility, assaulted Loveth, and repeatedly smashed her head against the floor. She was rushed to the hospital, where she was confirmed dead. Her remains have been deposited in a mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
Police rearrested the suspect immediately after the attack.
Commissioner of Police, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, strongly condemned the killing and assured that justice would be served. He has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure the case is charged to court without delay.
