The tranquil farming community of Ilewo Orile in Abeokuta North, Ogun State, was shaken to its core on Wednesday following the brutal murder of 29-year-old Mrs. Gloria Peter Ajine. The hardworking mother of one was attacked while harvesting vegetables on her farm, leaving her family and community devastated.

A Tragic Day on the Farm

Gloria had gone to her farm that afternoon to gather vegetables in preparation for the market day on January 16. Tragically, she never returned home. Hours later, her lifeless body was discovered in a pool of blood, the victim of an apparent cold-blooded attack.

Her grieving husband, Mr. Peter Ajine, shared his anguish:
“Gloria was the light of our family. She went to the farm to gather food for us, for our son, for the market. Who would do this to her? My heart is shattered.”

Born into the Ochong family in Adum East Ito, Obi Local Government Area of Benue State, Gloria was married into the Ajine family of Abofutu Ikponyire. She and her husband had relocated to Ogun State with their young child to build a better life. Her untimely death has left a deep void in their lives.

Family’s Plea for Justice

Holding his one-year-old child, Peter made an emotional plea to authorities:
“I have lost my wife, my partner, and my best friend. Our son has lost his mother. We are calling on the government, on the police, and on everyone to help us find those who did this. Gloria’s life cannot end like this, without justice.”

Peter described Gloria as a hardworking and loving woman who had no known enemies. “She was full of dreams for her family. To think that she died in such a horrific way is unbearable,” he lamented.

Community Shocked by Gruesome Crime

Residents of Ilewo Orile expressed shock and fear following the murder, calling for urgent action to prevent further violence. Neighbors who knew Gloria spoke fondly of her diligence and kindness.

“This is a tragedy,” said Mrs. Rukayat Oladimeji, a neighbor. “Gloria was always smiling, always working hard. We cannot believe someone would take her life like this.”

Another resident, Mr. Gbenga Adewale, voiced concerns about safety:
“We are afraid. If this could happen to her, it could happen to anyone. The police need to act fast to ensure the safety of everyone in this area.”

Civil Society Organisations Condemn the Attack

Two civil rights organisations, the Human Rights Advocacy Watch Campaign (HRAWC) and the All Nigerian Women League (NWJL), released a joint statement condemning the murder.

“This brutal killing of Mrs. Gloria Peter Ajine is not just an attack on one family but an attack on our collective humanity,” the statement read. “It is heartbreaking that a woman working to provide for her family was cut down in such a horrific manner.”

The organisations called for an immediate and thorough investigation by the Ogun State Police Command, urging authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly. They highlighted the insecurity faced by vulnerable Nigerians, particularly women in rural areas, as a pressing concern that must be addressed.

Police Investigation Underway

When contacted, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, acknowledged the incident and pledged to gather more details. As of press time, no additional updates had been provided.

The Ajine and Ochong families, alongside civil society organisations, have appealed to the government and human rights bodies for support in their quest for justice. They stressed the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable to deter such acts of violence in the future.

“This murder is a tragedy not just for our family but for society as a whole,” the family said in a statement. “We call on the Ogun State Police Command to intensify efforts in investigating this case and ensuring that the killers are brought to book.”

A Call for Action

Gloria’s death has brought attention to the vulnerability of rural women and the urgent need for improved security measures in farming communities. As her family and community mourn, they remain resolute in their demand for justice, hoping that her tragic story will spur authorities to act decisively to protect others.