A 30-year-old man, Oforbuike Damian, has been brought before a Magistrate's court in Abakaliki for allegedly killing his mother. The court proceedings indicate that Damian is accused of stabbing his aged mother, Mrs Onyema Damian, to death with a knife in the back. According to the Police Prosecutor, David Njoku, the incident occurred on March 19, 2026, at Ohatekwe village, Ukawu community in the Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The Police Prosecutor revealed that the defendant caused the death of his mother, which is punishable under Section 319 of the Criminal Code, Cap 33 Vol. 1, Laws of Ebonyi State, 2009. Damian, who was unrepresented in court, claimed that he killed his mother due to her refusal to bathe him. The Chief Magistrate, Chinedu Agama, has ordered that Damian be remanded in a correctional centre, citing the court's lack of jurisdiction to handle the matter.
The case file and exhibits have been forwarded to the Department of Public Prosecution for advice and further adjudication. The matter has been adjourned to April 9, 2026.
The incident highlights the alarming rate of domestic violence in Nigeria, particularly in the Ebonyi State. The fact that a 30-year-old man could take the life of his own mother raises serious concerns about the breakdown of family values and the need for effective intervention. The court's decision to remand the defendant in a correctional centre underscores the gravity of the crime. The adjournment of the case to April 9, 2026, will undoubtedly provide an opportunity for further investigation and prosecution. Ultimately, this case serves as a stark reminder of the need for Nigerians to take responsibility for protecting their loved ones and upholding the rule of law.
