In a deeply distressing event that has left the community of Nnewichi in mourning, three young siblings were brutally murdered in their home on Saturday. The victims, identified as Ejezie Chikaima Daviana (9), Ejezie Chimziterem Dominica (7), and Edozie Chimdilim David (5), were reportedly attacked by unknown assailants while having their meal. The attackers not only took their lives but also concealed their bodies inside a deep freezer within the residence.
Parents’ Whereabouts During the Tragedy
At the time of this heinous act, the children’s mother, Mrs. Chikazor Ejezie—a dedicated lecturer and nurse—had left home to attend an examination. Their father, Mr. Ejezie Udochukwu, was away in Edo State due to work commitments. Upon returning home, Mrs. Ejezie was alarmed to find the house unusually open, a stark deviation from her children’s habitual practice of securing the door in her absence.
The Gruesome Discovery
After an exhaustive search that included nearby areas and their local church, where the children often served as altar attendants, the lifeless bodies of the siblings were discovered inside the deep freezer. The scene suggested a sudden interruption, with plates of food left as if abandoned in haste. This discovery has not only devastated the family but has also sent shockwaves throughout the community.
Father’s Agonizing Account
Mr. Udochukwu, overwhelmed with grief, recounted the harrowing experience: “My wife told me after searching for the kids by herself and a search party, without success, in despair, the deep freezer was opened and behold, the dead bodies of the kids were there.” He further described the unsettling scene, noting, “The kids were eating when the assailants stormed the house at about noon, as there were traces of food in plates that were like forcefully abandoned.” The profound loss of his three children under such tragic circumstances has left him utterly devastated.
Community’s Call for Justice
The residents of Nnewichi are grappling with the horror of this event. Many are in disbelief that such brutality could occur in their midst. Community leaders and neighbors are fervently calling for a thorough investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice. The collective grief is palpable, with many expressing concerns about the safety of their own families.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the incident. The Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Itam, has ordered an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the murders. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for an in-depth probe. Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated, “The bodies have been recovered, and the CP has transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for thorough investigation. More details will be shared later.” The authorities are urging anyone with pertinent information to come forward to aid in the investigation.
A Community in Mourning
The tragic loss of these young lives has cast a somber shadow over Nnewichi. Schools, local businesses, and community groups have organized vigils and memorials to honor the memory of the slain children. The incident has also sparked discussions about community safety, with many advocating for increased security measures and community vigilance to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Related Incidents in the Region
This heartbreaking event is not isolated. In recent times, Anambra State has witnessed other tragic incidents involving children. For instance, in August 2024, a mother and her four children died from suspected food poisoning in the Abubor Nnewichi community. The victims, identified as Onyinye (mother) and her children, Miracle, Dominion, Amanda, and Kosi, reportedly died after consuming their dinner. The exact cause of their deaths remains under investigation, but it has raised concerns about food safety and the need for public awareness in the region.
Community’s Plea for Enhanced Security
In light of these tragedies, residents are calling on state and local authorities to bolster security measures. There is a growing demand for regular police patrols, community watch programs, and public awareness campaigns to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, especially children. The community believes that proactive measures are essential to prevent such heinous acts and to restore a sense of security among the populace.
Conclusion
The brutal murder of the three siblings in Nnewichi is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that communities face. As the investigation unfolds, the collective hope is that justice will be served swiftly, and that measures will be implemented to prevent such tragedies in the future. The thoughts and prayers of many are with the grieving family during this unimaginably difficult time.
