Mrs. Beatrice Ekweremadu, wife of former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has been released from prison in the United Kingdom and returned to Nigeria on Tuesday. A source, who preferred to remain anonymous, confirmed the news to PUNCH Online, adding that she is currently in Abuja.
Community Celebration in Mpu
Her return has sparked jubilation in her family house in the Mpu community of Aninri Local Government Area, Enugu State. According to Mr. Benjamin Chijioke, the President of Mpu Town Union Federated, the entire community is celebrating the release. He described Beatrice’s return as a huge relief for the people of Mpu, expressing gratitude for her safe return while praying for the swift return of her husband, Senator Ike Ekweremadu.
“Our joy as Mpu people knows no bounds,” Chijioke said. “It is a great day for us. Since morning, it has been jubilation and celebration in all the villages.” He added that those who had benefitted from the Ekweremadu family’s philanthropy were particularly emotional, as the family’s absence had left a significant void.
Prayers for Ike Ekweremadu’s Return
Chijioke further emphasized the community’s collective hope that God would intervene to bring Senator Ike Ekweremadu back home soon. He highlighted the profound impact of the couple’s absence, noting that it had been a huge setback for the community.
Ogbuka Edwin, the councillor of Mpu Ward, also expressed his joy over Beatrice’s return, describing the day as almost like a public holiday. He acknowledged that the absence of both Ekweremadu and his wife had left a significant gap in the community. “We are not going to relent in our prayers until our hero and leader joins his family, and we are trusting what God can do,” he said, adding that it was a day of celebration for the entire community.
Background
Beatrice Ekweremadu, her husband Senator Ike Ekweremadu, and one Obinna Obeta were sentenced in 2023 by a UK court for their involvement in an organ-trafficking plot. Beatrice received a five-year prison sentence, while the others received varying jail terms. The Ekweremadu family’s ordeal has been a source of concern for their community, but Beatrice’s release has provided a moment of joy and hope for her family and supporters.
