Enugu Man Arrested for Murdering Cousin Who Reported Him for Sexual Abuse.
What began as a young woman’s courageous step to escape abuse has ended in what police are calling a “heartbreaking tragedy.” The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 51-year-old man, Emeka Emmanuel Nwangwu, for the alleged murder of his 19-year-old cousin, Loveth Uloma Nwangwu.
The arrest comes barely days after Loveth formally reported Nwangwu to the police, accusing him of sexual abuse, defilement, and threats to her life.
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Police spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, detailed a harrowing timeline of events. According to their records, Loveth’s ordeal began in 2019 when, at just 13 years old, she went to live with her older cousin after his wife passed away. For years, she reportedly suffered sexual abuse, was prevented from communicating with others, and lived under threat.
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In a bid for freedom, Loveth managed to flee to her family home in Enugu-Ezike late last month. Her respite was short-lived. Police say Nwangwu tracked her down, threatened her with a firearm, and forced her back to his residence in Ibeku-Opi, Nsukka. She escaped again and, on November 28, filed an official complaint at the Umabor Police Division.
The police issued a medical form for examination and called both families in. During this meeting, the suspect reportedly admitted to some of the allegations.
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“He sought forgiveness and promised to return the victim’s property,” the police statement noted.
Citing cultural and family ties, Loveth’s family initially chose not to press criminal charges, opting instead for a traditional resolution. This decision, however, could not prevent the final, violent act.
On Monday, December 1, while Loveth was receiving treatment at a pharmacy in Nsukka, the suspect forced his way inside. Witnesses and police say he attacked her, violently smashing her head against the floor. She was rushed to the hospital but did not survive.
Police operatives, assisted by a local Neighbourhood Watch Group, arrested Nwangwu at the scene. He is now in custody.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has strongly condemned the killing. “This is a cruel, inhuman, and utterly unacceptable act,” Giwa stated. “I assure the family and the public that the Command will leave no stone unturned. Justice must be served, and it will be served.”
He has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to handle the case and ensure it is sent to court quickly.
The body of Loveth Uloma Nwangwu has been placed in a mortuary for an autopsy as the investigation continues.
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