Amid a rent increment dispute in Enugwu-Ukwu, Njikoka local government area of Anambra state, a middle-aged woman, Amaka Okonkwo, has been apprehended for allegedly pouring hot water mixed with pepper on a female tenant.

The victim, Imabong William, from Akwa Ibom, narrated that the incident occurred after the suspect insisted she vacates the apartment due to her inability to pay the newly increased rent following the expiration of the previous year’s lease.

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Imabong stated: “I asked her to give me some time to enable me to get a new place, but she refused. I was washing my clothes when she suddenly came from behind and poured hot water mixed with pepper on me.”

Ebere Okonkwo, the husband of the accused, denied his wife’s involvement in the incident, saying, “Although I was at home that day, I had no knowledge of my wife’s ill intentions towards our tenant.”

The Nation gathered that the suspect had expressed confidence in evading legal consequences.

Reacting to the incident, the commissioner of women and social welfare, Ify Obinabo stated that the victim is presently undergoing treatment at a Nawfia hospital, while the suspect is held at Nimo police station.

Obinabo who spoke through her media aide, Chidinma Ikeanyionwu expressed displeasure over the incident, promising to get justice for the victim.

She appreciated Enugwu-Ukwu Women for their timely intervention towards arresting the suspect, advising the public to always report all forms of crimes to appropriate channels for immediate intervention.

She said: “The state government will not take lightly anyone found culpable of assault of any kind.”

On her part, the women presidents general of the community, Lady Chiegbunam Nwosu and Florence Okoye thanked the government for responding to their call, stressing that the community was not in support of the dastardly act.

The group also visited Nimo police division where the DPO assured of transferring the case to the state CID for onward investigation and consequent peace and order in the community. (The Nation)

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