A tragic incident unfolded in the early hours of Sunday morning on Onyia Uke Street, Fegge, in the Onitsha South Local Government Area of Anambra, leaving the community in shock.
A 21-year-old apprentice, identified as Chiemerie Anieke, is alleged to have fatally attacked his master, Mr. Ikechukwu Nwite, popularly known as “Turn by Turn,” following a heated argument over his late return home on Saturday night, Valentine’s Day.
According to sources on the scene, the confrontation began when Mr. Nwite, a trader at the Drug Market in Bridge Head, questioned Anieke over his tardiness.
The disagreement quickly escalated, culminating in a violent altercation during which the apprentice reportedly struck his master on the head with a pestle, inflicting fatal injuries.
Eyewitnesses recounted that neighbours, upon realising the severity of the attack, immediately intervened.
Despite their efforts, Mr. Nwite was confirmed dead at the scene and was subsequently evacuated to a nearby mortuary.
The violence did not end there, as reports indicate that Anieke allegedly turned on Mrs. Ogechukwu Nwite, the late trader’s wife, who also manages the business.
Neighbours rushed to her aid, preventing further harm, and she is currently receiving medical attention for her injuries.
Confirming the incident, the Anambra State Police Command disclosed that the suspect has been arrested and is in police custody.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer, stated that the pestle allegedly used in the attack had been recovered as evidence.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspect may have been provoked by the manner in which the late Ikechukwu admonished him for misconduct, including misappropriating shop funds, staying out late at night, and alleged drug use,” SP Ikenga said.
The police have transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka for a thorough investigation and potential prosecution.
Authorities have promised to provide further updates as the inquiry progresses.
The community in Fegge remains in shock, grappling with the violent death of a well-known trader and the disturbing circumstances surrounding the incident.
