
28/05/2025
Man Arraigned for Alleged Murder, Drinking of Uncle’s Blood in Ebonyi
A 40-year-old man, Mr. Emmanuel Nwedu, has been brought before Magistrates’ Court 11 in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, for allegedly murdering his uncle and reportedly drinking his blood.
The defendant is facing one count of murder, but his plea was not taken during the court proceedings held on Tuesday. He appeared in court without legal representation.
According to the Senior State Counsel, Mr. Emmanuel Alo, the alleged crime occurred on 24th May at Ugboenyim in Ebonyi Local Government Area of the state. The prosecution stated that the defendant, Mr. Nwedu, struck the victim, Mr. Godwin Nwedu (his uncle), on the forehead with a stick, which led to his death.
The counsel emphasized that the offence is punishable under Section 329(1) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 33, Volume 1, Laws of Ebonyi State 2009.
Following the submission of the original case file, Mr. Alo requested that the accused be remanded at the Federal Correctional Centre in Abakaliki pending further legal action.
Chief Magistrate Chinedu Agama granted the request and issued an order for the defendant’s remand in custody. He also directed that the matter be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for further action.
The case was subsequently adjourned to 11th June for a report on the DPP’s review and compliance.
Legal Analysis:
The charge of murder falls under Section 329(1) of the Criminal Code applicable in Ebonyi State, which carries severe penalties, including life imprisonment or death, depending on judicial findings.
As a Magistrates' Court lacks jurisdiction to try capital offences like murder, the case is being transferred to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for review and possible arraignment before the High Court, which has proper jurisdiction.
The alleged act of drinking the deceased’s blood, while not formally included in the charge at this stage, could significantly influence the perception of the crime and may lead to additional or aggravated charges upon further investigation.
The absence of legal representation for the defendant at this point may raise concerns about access to fair legal process, and legal aid may be necessary going forward.
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