A 30-year-old man, Okpara Chibuike Emmanuel, has confessed to allegedly killing his girlfriend, Chinyere Rosemary Ugwu, in Enugu. Emmanuel made the confession during an interview with Enugu State Police spokesman, SP Daniel Ndukwe. The incident reportedly occurred around midnight on September 19, 2026. Emmanuel claimed that he had told Ugwu he could treat people living with hepatitis C, HIV, and syphilis, which sparked an argument.
According to Emmanuel, Ugwu accused him of infecting her with HIV, leading to a physical confrontation. During the struggle, Ugwu allegedly attacked him with a pestle. Emmanuel claimed that he took the weapon from her and struck her, causing her to collapse. He further admitted using a machete on her wrist, head, and neck. The suspect said he then locked the toilet and master bedroom and wrapped Ugwu's body in a black nylon bag, placing it inside the toilet.
Neighbours detected a foul smell coming from the apartment and broke into the house, finding Ugwu's decomposing remains. Emmanuel said he was devastated by what happened and claimed that he attempted to contact a neighbour for help. He also admitted damaging Ugwu's Samsung phone, fearing someone could use it to trace his location. Ugwu had switched off her iPhone after complaining that the device was faulty.
Emmanuel and Ugwu had met on Facebook in 2023, and their relationship resumed after she returned to Enugu in 2026. He claimed that he intended to marry her and had discussed the relationship with her mother. The suspect suggested that a substance may have influenced his behaviour during the incident and later asked for forgiveness and mercy.
Police identified Ugwu as a Medical Laboratory Science graduate of the Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu, who had recently completed her National Youth Service Corps programme. The command said Ugwu's parents and siblings had met with the Commissioner of Police, who also interviewed the suspect. The Commissioner directed investigators to conclude the case and charge Emmanuel to court.
The police advised members of the public, particularly young women, to keep trusted people informed about their whereabouts when going out. The command had earlier reported that neighbours discovered Ugwu's decomposing body after noticing an offensive smell from the apartment. Police said officers arrested Emmanuel after rescuing him from an angry mob.
The case highlights the dangers of disputes in relationships and the need for victims to seek help. Emmanuel's actions have been condemned, and he will face trial for his alleged crime. Key points include: Emmanuel's false claims of being able to treat HIV and other diseases; the violent argument that led to Ugwu's death; and the police's advice to the public on keeping trusted individuals informed about their safety.
Key points
- The suspect, Okpara Chibuike Emmanuel, falsely claimed he could treat HIV and other diseases, leading to a fatal dispute with his girlfriend.
- The police have concluded their investigation and will charge Emmanuel to court.
- The incident highlights the need for victims of relationship disputes to seek help from trusted individuals or authorities.
