A tragic incident has shaken residents of Umuizi in Ekeoba Ohuhu, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, where a 38-year-old officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service, identified as Chidiebere James, was allegedly stabbed to death by his wife following a domestic dispute.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, has thrown the quiet community into mourning. According to neighbours, the couple had been involved in a heated argument a day earlier over family issues, including the welfare of their sick child and alleged accusations of infidelity.
Sources within the community said tensions escalated after the wife reportedly confronted her husband over messages she allegedly discovered on his mobile phone.
Residents disclosed that family members and neighbours initially intervened on Sunday to calm the situation after the quarrel became intense.
However, the disagreement reportedly resumed late at night and degenerated into a physical struggle inside their residence. During the altercation, household items were said to have been thrown around, and both parties allegedly sustained minor injuries.
In the course of the fight, the wife allegedly grabbed a sharp object, said to be a pair of scissors, and stabbed the immigration officer multiple times. He was said to have collapsed shortly after sustaining the injuries. Alarmed by distress calls, neighbours rushed into the apartment and found him lying in a pool of blood.
He was immediately taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Umuahia, where doctors reportedly made efforts to stabilise him but later confirmed him dead.
The Abia State Police Command has confirmed the incident and taken the suspect into custody. Police authorities disclosed that the woman is currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department while investigations continue. The body of the deceased has been deposited in a morgue pending autopsy.
The shocking development has sparked renewed concerns over rising cases of domestic violence in the country, with community leaders calling for improved conflict resolution mechanisms and counseling support for couples experiencing marital challenges.
Family members described the late officer as a devoted father and dedicated public servant whose death has left a deep void among colleagues and loved ones. Police have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted and that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.
