The Delta State Police Command has arrested a 36-year-old woman following a violent domestic incident in Ughelli that resulted in the death of her husband and left two other women critically injured. The case, which unfolded after a reported marital quarrel, has drawn renewed attention to domestic violence, anger management, and community safety in Nigeria.
Police identified the suspect as Ovie-Ogor, a resident of Ughelli, Delta State. Her husband, known simply as Famous, was confirmed dead after sustaining multiple machete wounds. Two female neighbours who were later attacked in separate encounters are currently receiving critical medical care.
Incident and Arrest
According to the Delta State Police Command, the incident began during a disagreement between the suspect and her husband. During the altercation, she allegedly used a machete to inflict five cuts on him. After the attack, the suspect reportedly sent her child to call a nearby female neighbour. When the neighbour entered the house, she was also attacked with the machete.
The violence did not end there. Police said the suspect later picked up a hammer and, accompanied by her two children, went to another house on the same street. She allegedly deceived another woman into stepping out by claiming her 12-year-old son was being beaten by his father. As the woman prepared to assist, she was struck on the head with the hammer.
Her screams reportedly alerted neighbours, who intervened, restrained the suspect, recovered the weapon, and rushed the injured woman to hospital. Despite medical efforts, the husband was pronounced dead, while the two women remain in critical condition.
What We Know So Far
The police confirmed the following details:
- The suspect, a 36-year-old woman from Ughelli, was arrested by officers of the Delta State Police Command.
- The deceased, identified as the suspect’s husband, died from multiple machete injuries.
- Two female neighbours were attacked in separate incidents involving a machete and a hammer and are currently hospitalised in critical condition.
- Community members intervened during the second attack, preventing further harm.
- The suspect is in police custody, and a full investigation is ongoing.
The incident was disclosed by the police spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, who provided details of the attacks and the immediate response by neighbours and law enforcement.
Suspect’s Account and Police Response
During preliminary questioning, the suspect told investigators that anger drove her actions. She claimed her husband had not formally paid her dowry, despite the couple living together and having three children aged 12, six, and four. She acknowledged striking her husband multiple times and described the other women she attacked as her enemies.
She also expressed remorse, stating that she felt bad about what happened and did not know the whereabouts of her children at the time of the interview.
SP Edafe used the incident to reiterate the dangers of unchecked anger. He noted that the police command had recently issued public advisories urging citizens to manage their temper, citing several deaths recorded earlier in the year linked to violent disputes. He described it as particularly tragic that this incident was reported shortly after those warnings were shared.
Broader Context: Domestic Violence and Public Safety
Domestic disputes escalating into fatal violence remain a persistent concern across Nigeria. Economic pressure, unresolved marital issues, and limited access to conflict-resolution support often contribute to volatile household environments. Law enforcement agencies and civil society organisations have repeatedly called for early intervention, counselling, and community awareness to prevent such outcomes.
The Ughelli incident also underscores the risk posed to bystanders during domestic crises, as neighbours who attempt to help can become unintended victims.
What Happens Next
Police authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing. The suspect is expected to be charged once inquiries are concluded and medical reports from the surviving victims are obtained. Child welfare agencies may also become involved to determine the care and protection of the couple’s children.
As the case proceeds, authorities are again urging the public to seek lawful and peaceful means of resolving disputes and to report early signs of domestic violence to prevent further loss of life.
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