Mentally Ill Mother and Daughter Axe Grandmother to Death in Nsukka Over Alleged Missing Money

Tragedy struck the Ezema Nru community in Nsukka Local Government Area when a 70-year-old grandmother, Mama Oliver, was brutally killed by her daughter and granddaughter. The suspects, identified as Loretta Asadu and her daughter Chikamso, were arrested by the Enugu State Police Command following the attack.

Eyewitnesses reported that the incident occurred after Mama Oliver complained of hunger. Loretta’s son, Abumchukwu, had reportedly stepped out to buy food for his grandmother. Before leaving, he tied Loretta’s hands as she became increasingly agitated. While he was away, Chikamso, who is also reportedly battling mental health challenges, untied her mother.

Neighbours recounted that both women then dragged Mama Oliver behind the house and attacked her with a machete and an axe. Residents rushed to the scene after hearing commotion, describing the aftermath as horrifying.

“I have been crying. Loretta has some mental problems and was even said to have kidney issues before. They butchered the woman’s head. The deceased was a very peaceful person,” said Ifeanyi, a neighbour who witnessed the scene.

Mama Oliver had relocated from Umabor-Ehalumona to live with her daughter, assisting in managing her mental health at home. Although Enugu State hosts specialized facilities for psychiatric care, including the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, UNTH Ituku-Ozalla, and ESUT-TH Parklane, the family reportedly opted for home care.

The Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed the arrests and said investigations are ongoing. The victim’s body has been deposited at a mortuary in Nsukka.