A tragic and disturbing incident has unfolded in Ebonyi State, where a 30-year-old man, Ofobuike Damian, has been arraigned for allegedly killing his elderly mother.
The suspect was brought before Magistrates’ Court 2 in Abakaliki on a charge of murder, following an incident that reportedly occurred on March 19 in Ohatekwe community, Ukawu, within Onicha Local Government Area.
According to the prosecution, led by Senior State Counsel David Njoku, Damian allegedly stabbed his mother, Onyema Damian, in the back with a knife, resulting in her death. The offence is said to be punishable under Section 319 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Ebonyi State, 2009.
The case has drawn widespread attention due to the suspect’s shocking explanation for the act. While addressing the court without legal representation, Damian pleaded guilty and claimed the incident was triggered by his mother’s refusal to bathe him.
“I don’t know what really happened, but I can remember that I killed her over her refusal to bathe me,” he reportedly told the court.
Presiding Chief Magistrate Chinedu Agama ruled that the Magistrates’ Court lacks jurisdiction to try murder cases. Consequently, he ordered that the defendant be remanded in a correctional facility.
The court also directed that the case file and all exhibits be forwarded to the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP) for further legal advice.
The matter has been adjourned until April 9 for mention, as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident continue.
Published by Ejoh Caleb
