Dr. Matthew Uwuigbe, a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, died on Monday, October 5, 2026, in a hotel room in the Mosco area of Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State. According to reports, Uwuigbe engaged the services of a 21-year-old commercial sex worker, Angela Defa Jacob, before his death. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently unclear.
The Edo State Police Command has commenced an investigation into Uwuigbe's death and has arrested three persons in connection with the incident. The police spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed that the command received a report at about 8 pm on Monday that the lecturer had lodged at the hotel and engaged Jacob's services. Ikoedem stated that Jacob was asked by Uwuigbe to leave the hotel room to purchase water but returned to find him lifeless.
The police have detained the hotel owner, manager, and Jacob for questioning as detectives work to establish the circumstances surrounding Uwuigbe's death. The investigation aims to determine what transpired before the lecturer was found dead. Uwuigbe's remains have since been deposited at the Oriaifo Memorial Hospital Mortuary for preservation.
Ambrose Alli University has distanced itself from the incident, confirming that Uwuigbe was a member of its academic staff but stressing that the incident had no connection with the university or any official university activity. The university spokesperson, Otunba Aladenika, stated that the lecturer's death occurred outside the institution's premises and clarified that Jacob was not a student of the university.
The university management described the circumstances surrounding Uwuigbe's death as a private matter and emphasized that it should not be associated with the institution. This incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of individuals, particularly in the context of commercial sex work.
The case highlights the need for vigilance and caution in various aspects of life, including personal and professional settings. As the investigation continues, the police and other stakeholders will likely uncover more details about the incident.
The incident has sparked a range of reactions, with many calling for increased awareness and measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Key aspects of the case include the arrest of three persons, the university's distancing from the incident, and the ongoing investigation into Uwuigbe's death.
Key points
- The police have arrested three persons in connection with the incident, including the hotel owner, manager, and the commercial sex worker involved.
- Ambrose Alli University has distanced itself from the incident, confirming Uwuigbe as a staff member but stressing that the incident occurred outside university premises.
- The investigation into Uwuigbe's death is ongoing, with detectives working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.