The Abia State Police Command has confirmed the beheading of an elderly man, Mr. Jacob Udo, and his wife, Mrs. Comfort Udo, in Bende Local Government Area of the state.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed this in a statement titled “Re: The Alleged Murder of a Couple in Bende,” on Thursday.
She said, “Yes, we received the report yesterday at Bende Divisional Headquarters.
“The crime scene has been visited, exhibits recovered, and the bodies deposited at the mortuary. Investigation is ongoing.”
Reports suggest that the couple, both traders, were murdered in their home in Etiti Ulo, Bende, on Tuesday night by unknown assailants.
Reacting, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency, condemned the gruesome act.
In a statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu expressed his sympathies to the victims’ families, calling the act “horrific and senseless.”
He also urged the state government and law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation to apprehend the perpetrators.
“The brutal murder of Mr. Jacob Udo and his wife is an affront to humanity. No grievance or dispute can justify such violence
“I urge the authorities to ensure that the culprits are brought to justice. We must all stand together against acts of violence and extremism while promoting tolerance and peaceful resolution of conflicts,” Kalu stated.
Kalu further called for calm and restraint among the community, cautioning against reprisal attacks.
“While we understand the pain and emotions surrounding this tragedy, we must avoid actions that will escalate tensions. Violence will only breed further division and suffering,” he added.