Anambra man kills lover’s son over objections to relationship

A man identified as Gozie has been accused of killing his lover’s only son in Anambra State after ongoing disputes over their relationship.

The incident occurred on Sunday night, March 15, 2026, in Uli community, Ihiala Local Government Area.

The victim, a man in his twenties, was reportedly attacked inside his room following repeated disagreements with his mother’s partner, who had been visiting and staying at their residence.

Residents said tensions had been building for some time, with frequent arguments between both men. According to accounts gathered by neighbours, the disagreement centred on the suspect’s regular presence in the home.

A resident who gave his name as Somto said suspicion arose after occupants of the compound were not seen for several days. He noted that unusual sounds had been heard on the night of the incident, prompting concern among neighbours.

He explained that when residents eventually entered the compound, they found the victim dead in his room, with severe machete injuries. The discovery drew attention across the area, leading youths to search for both the suspect and the victim’s mother, who had already left.

The case was reported to the police, and the remains of the deceased were taken to a morgue.

A video circulating on social media showed youths moving the corpse through parts of the community while calling for justice.

Further accounts indicate that the victim’s mother had returned to Uli after the death of her husband, who was from a neighbouring Egbu community. The son was said to have opposed her relationship with Gozie, warning him on several occasions.

Another resident, Nnamdi Ozoememam, said the dispute escalated over time as the suspect began staying overnight at the home, which intensified the conflict with the victim.

He alleged that the attack occurred while the victim was asleep, after which the suspect fled with the woman.

The development triggered anger among youths from Egbu community, who reportedly retaliated by attacking the suspect’s family compound and setting buildings on fire.

A community elder, who spoke anonymously, condemned both the killing and the retaliatory destruction, urging restraint and adherence to lawful processes.

Police sources in Ihiala confirmed that the matter is under investigation and will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department. They added that the suspect and the woman are currently at large, while efforts continue to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.