Crime

Anambra Family Members Arrested for Beating 75-Year-Old Father Over Firewood Dispute

Published by Tope Fakinlede on September 5th, 2024.

Anambra Family Members Arrested for Beating 75-Year-Old Father Over Firewood Dispute

Esther Obidigwe, her daughter Ozioma Obidigwe, and her son Obuka Obidigwe have been arrested by Anambra State’s Ministry of Women and Social Welfare. The charges stem from allegations that they assaulted their 75-year-old father, Mr. Romanus Obidigwe.

Chidinma Ikeanyionwu, media aide to the Commissioner for Women Affairs, reported that the arrest came after Mr. Obidigwe, a retired senior civil servant, lodged a complaint about ongoing abuse. The recent incident was sparked by Ozioma’s unauthorized sale of his firewood.

According to Mr. Obidigwe, when he confronted Ozioma about the sale, she, along with Esther and Obuka, allegedly attacked him. They reportedly bound him, beat him with a rod, and cut off his food supply. He also accused Obuka of fraudulently accessing his retirement benefits from the local government.

Mr. Obidigwe revealed that he had been enduring a non-consensual marriage since 2000 to maintain family peace, and that a neighbor had to step in to stop the recent violence. Following this, the family is said to have locked him out of his home.

Obuka has denied any involvement in the assault, while Esther has admitted to the abuse. Ozioma claims her actions were a reaction to her father’s treatment of her.

Hon. Ify Obinabo, Commissioner for Women Affairs, condemned the abuse and pledged to ensure that Mr. Obidigwe receives justice. The three suspects have been transferred to the police for further investigation and legal action.