Pastor Arrested Over Gruesome Murder of Four Siblings in Enugu State

Map of Enugu State

A pastor affiliated with a white garment church has reportedly been arrested in connection with the brutal killing of four siblings in Ibagwa-Aka, Igbo Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State. The victims—Kamsiyochukwu Ezema (7), Ezinne Ezema (6), Ujunwa Ezema (5), and Chinedu Ezema (2)—were allegedly murdered with a pestle, according to preliminary local reports.

While the name of the arrested suspect has not been disclosed, he is said to be a member of a Sabbath Church operating in the area. Other individuals believed to be involved in the killings are currently on the run, and law enforcement officers are actively pursuing them.

The motive behind the killings remains unclear, as the police have yet to release an official statement or findings from their ongoing investigation. However, sources familiar with the case described the crime scene as deeply disturbing and the circumstances surrounding the murder as shrouded in mystery.

Chairman of Igbo Eze South LGA, Mr. Ferdinand Ukwueze, confirmed the arrest during a visit to the bereaved family on Saturday. During the visit, he condemned the “heinous and senseless” act, expressing deep sorrow over the tragic loss.

“Our community was shaken by the tragic and heinous murder of four innocent children,” Ukwueze stated. “I am deeply saddened by this act of senseless violence and extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of the victims.”

Ukwueze, accompanied by officials from the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other local security agencies, visited both the crime scene and the premises linked to the incident. The compound, suspected to be used for unauthorized herbal medicine practices, informal psychiatric services, and questionable spiritual activities, was immediately sealed pending the outcome of the investigation.

He further pledged the full support of the local government in ensuring a thorough investigation and bringing the perpetrators to justice. “Law enforcement agencies have apprehended some key suspects in connection with the crime, while the search for others continues,” he said.

The council chairman also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security authorities. “We will continue to collaborate with security agencies to strengthen surveillance and prevent such grievous incidents from recurring,” he added.

The grieving parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chinonso Ezema, demanded justice for their children, calling on the authorities to investigate thoroughly and bring those responsible to book. “We want the police to ensure the culprit is brought to justice,” Mr. Ezema stated.

As of Sunday evening, the Enugu State Police Command had not issued an official statement, and attempts to reach the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, were unsuccessful.