Rivers: How Pregnant Mother of Nine Killed Woman Over Stolen Plantains

In a shocking incident in Rivers State, 32-year-old Esther Godday, a pregnant mother of nine, has been arrested for the killing of Mrs. Imeran Idema over a stolen bunch of plantains. The altercation unfolded on January 28, 2024, when Esther attempted to pilfer the plantains from the plantation owned by Idema’s family.

According to Esther’s confession to the Rivers State police, a scuffle broke out between the two women during the theft, resulting in both parties sustaining injuries. Esther, now in custody, revealed, “She cut me, and I cut her.” The pregnant suspect justified her actions by claiming financial hardship, stating that her unemployed husband couldn’t adequately provide for their large family.

Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, emphasized the need for responsible decision-making, urging individuals to consider the consequences of their life choices. He particularly addressed heads of households, emphasizing the importance of procreating within one’s means.

Esther and her husband, Godday, entered into a traditional marriage in 2010 and have nine children together, with the tenth on the way as Esther was eight months pregnant at the time of her arrest. The husband’s prolonged unemployment and absence from home placed the burden of supporting the family solely on Esther, who admitted that none of their children were attending school.

On the fateful day, Esther ventured into town from their village of Agada in Abua, where residents rely primarily on farming. The village is surrounded by plantations managed by various family groups. Esther, seeking sustenance, discreetly entered a plantain plantation, triggering the unfortunate confrontation with Mrs. Imeran Idema.

The police sources detailed the sequence of events, revealing that Imeran confronted Esther during the theft, leading to a physical altercation. Esther suffered a deep cut on her right foot, while Imeran sustained significant injuries to her head and shoulder. Esther fled the scene, leaving behind the stolen plantains. Despite initially being released for medical attention, Esther was rearrested two days later upon learning of Imeran’s tragic demise.