Delta Court Sentences Man to Death for Ritual Killing of Twins

Delta State High Court in Asaba has sentenced Onuwa Ijie to death and Nwanozie Uzor to 14 years imprisonment for their roles in the gruesome murder of twin boys, Chidalu and Chigozie Agwunobi.

Presided over by Justice Onome Marshal-Umukoro, the court delivered its verdict following a rigorous prosecution led by Deputy Director Paula Akpoguma from the Ministry of Justice. The case, which unfolded tragically on March 5, 2020, saw the defendants lure the seven-year-old boys to a remote location in Oko-Ogbele Community. There, they mutilated the children, removing their genitals, eyes, tongues, and hands, which were swiftly taken to a native doctor in Aguleri, Anambra State.

During the trial, five witnesses provided compelling testimony, crucial in proving the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt. The court emphasized the significance of the confessional statement by the first defendant, Onuwa Ijie, which reportedly instigated the grisly act by introducing the idea of ritualistic murder to Nwanozie Uzor.

Justice Marshal-Umukoro underscored the importance of police testimony in such cases, dismissing any notion of hearsay and reaffirming its admissibility in court. The ruling marks a decisive victory for justice in a case that has shocked the nation and highlighted the scourge of ritual killings.

Following the verdict, Deputy Director Paula Akpoguma expressed gratitude for the court’s adherence to justice, emphasizing its role in upholding societal values and the rule of law.