The Enugu State Police Command has charged a 46-year-old man, Livinus Okoh, before the Enugu East Magistrate Court for allegedly killing his wife, Onyinyechi Okoh, at their residence in Amuri, Nkanu West Local Government Area.
According to the charge sheet made available to reporters on Thursday, Okoh reportedly struck his wife on the lower jaw with an axe, causing her death on October 8, 2025.
Police prosecutors, C.O. Ugwu Esq. and A.C. Amalu Esq., accused Okoh of committing an offence contrary to Section 274 (1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 30, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Enugu State of Nigeria.
Presiding Magistrate Uche Jideofor ruled that the court lacked the jurisdiction to grant bail and ordered Okoh’s remand at the correctional centre pending legal advice from the Enugu State Ministry of Justice. The case was adjourned to December 17, 2025.
Meanwhile, the Enugu State Government has condemned the killing, describing it as “a grave reminder of the persistent and unacceptable menace of Gender-Based Violence in our society.”
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, the government urged the judiciary to ensure swift justice while reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy on domestic violence.
The statement also extended condolences to the victim’s family and urged residents to report all forms of abuse and violence.
“Violence against women, in any form, is a gross violation of human rights and is contrary to the values of equality, respect, and dignity that we uphold as a people,” Mrs. Enih said.
The state government further reiterated its commitment to collaborate with law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and civil society groups to curb domestic violence and ensure offenders are held accountable.
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