The Imo State Police Command has arrested a man, Obinna Obiekea, also known as Losky, and his son, Chidubem Obiekea, for allegedly setting their 35-year-old relative, Chima Okafor, on fire. The incident stemmed from accusations that Chima had stolen a pair of jeans worth N25,000.
The tragic event occurred in the early hours of New Year’s Day in Nnebugwu, Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State. Chima, who had been attending a crossover service at a Cherubim church, was reportedly dragged out of the church by Obinna, his wife Nwamaka, and their two sons, Eloka and Chidubem. The family allegedly assaulted him before setting him ablaze in their compound.
Narrating the incident, the victim’s father, Uche Okafor, revealed that Chima was attacked shortly after midnight. “They accused my son of stealing a pair of jeans. They dragged him away, beat him, and set him on fire,” Okafor said after filing a petition with the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma.
Chima was rushed to the Congregation of the Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ Hospital in Mgbele, Oguta, but succumbed to severe burns later that day.
The grieving father appealed to Governor Hope Uzodimma and President Bola Tinubu to intervene and ensure justice is served. He also disclosed that while Obinna and Chidubem are in custody, Nwamaka and Eloka remain at large.
A police source confirmed that the case has been transferred to the homicide unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Owerri. “An autopsy will be conducted in the presence of witnesses, and the case file will be prepared for court proceedings,” the source said.
Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, also confirmed the arrests and assured the public that the police are committed to a thorough investigation. “The Commissioner of Police has ordered a detailed investigation, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the suspects still at large. Justice will be served,” Okoye stated.
