The Imo State Police Command has detained Mr. Obinna Obiekea, known as Losky, and his son, Chidubem Obiekea, for allegedly setting their 35-year-old relative, Chima Okafor, on fire following accusations of stealing a pair of jeans worth N25,000.
The incident occurred in the early hours of New Year’s Day in Nnebugwu, Oguta Local Government Area, Imo State. Chima was dragged from a Cherubim church where he was attending a crossover service, assaulted, and set alight by the suspects.
The victim’s father, Mr. Uche Okafor, recounted the tragic event, saying his son was attacked by Obiekea, his wife Nwamaka, and their sons Eloka and Chidubem shortly after midnight. Okafor explained that his son was accused of stealing the jeans, dragged to their compound, and burned after being beaten with weapons.
Chima was rushed to the Congregation of the Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ Hospital in Mgbele, Oguta, but sadly died from his injuries later that day.
Mr. Okafor has called on authorities, including Governor Hope Uzodimma and President Bola Tinubu, to ensure justice for his son. In his petition, he noted that Obinna and Chidubem are in police custody, but Eloka and Nwamaka remain at large.
A police source confirmed the case had been transferred to the homicide section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Owerri for further investigation. An autopsy will be conducted, and preparations for court proceedings are underway.
The Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, confirmed the arrests and assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway, with the aim of ensuring justice for the victim.
