By Omonigho Macaulay
In a grisly and heartbreaking event that has sent shockwaves through the serene community of Idekan Farm Settlement in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, a man named Matthew James brutally killed his 55-year-old wife, Etim Mary. This horrifying incident, fuelled by suspicions of an extramarital affair, has left residents grappling with disbelief and fear.
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The Tragic Event Unfolds
It was a seemingly ordinary Sunday evening, around 8:00 p.m., when the tranquil atmosphere of Idekan Farm Settlement was shattered by the chilling actions of Matthew James. According to PUNCH Metro, James, consumed by jealousy and suspicion, attacked his wife with a machete, leading to her gruesome death.
Eyewitnesses recounted the horrifying details of the crime. James, convinced that his wife was involved in an extramarital affair with another man from their community, allegedly confronted her with fatal consequences.
Blood Covenant and Betrayal
The narrative took a darker turn when it was revealed that the couple had entered into a blood covenant, pledging to never betray each other. This antiquated and ominous pact, often symbolizing unbreakable trust and fidelity, became the catalyst for the tragic end of Etim Mary.
An anonymous eyewitness disclosed, “They had a blood covenant that they would not leave each other. He suspected the wife was having an extramarital affair. The woman had been married before she met James. He married her when the woman was already ageing. She had grown-up children before James married her.”
Despite the alleged infidelity, James’s reaction was nothing short of monstrous. Returning home one morning armed with a machete, he reportedly attacked Mary, delivering fatal blows that left her lifeless. He did not attempt to flee but instead stood beside her body, drenched in her blood, until the authorities arrived.
Police Intervention and Investigation
The Ogun State Police Command quickly intervened, apprehending James at the scene. The spokesperson for the command, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the incident, detailing the brutal nature of the attack. “She was found lying in the pool of her blood just in front of the house about 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. She had deep cuts on her forehead, shoulders, and other parts of her body. The husband was found with the blood-soaked machete he was believed to have used to commit the crime,” Odutola stated.
Mary was rushed to a general hospital in Ijebu-Igbo by concerned residents, but it was too late. The attending doctor pronounced her dead upon arrival. Her body has since been moved to the Alayangbe Private Mortuary in Oke-Agbo, Ijebu-Igbo, for an autopsy, which will provide further insights into the gruesome attack.
A Community in Mourning
The Idekan Farm Settlement community is now enveloped in grief and shock. The brutal nature of the crime has left residents terrified and questioning the safety of their peaceful neighborhood. Community leaders and residents are calling for justice, hoping that the legal system will swiftly and severely punish James for his heinous act.
One resident expressed the collective sentiment, “This is a tragedy that has befallen our community. We are in shock and deep mourning. We never imagined such a brutal act could happen here. We hope justice will be served.”
A Disturbing Pattern
This incident is not an isolated case. Earlier in April, a similar tragedy occurred in Ekiti, where a man named Dare Onipede allegedly killed his wife, Arinola, during a dispute over accusations of infidelity. Onipede reportedly stabbed his wife to death, leaving their three children motherless. These recurring incidents highlight a disturbing trend of domestic violence and lethal confrontations over suspected infidelity in Nigeria.
The Role of Blood Covenants in Marital Relationships
The concept of blood covenants, as seen in the tragic case of James and Mary, is deeply rooted in some cultural beliefs. These covenants are often viewed as ultimate symbols of trust and commitment. However, when jealousy and suspicion infiltrate such relationships, the consequences can be dire.
Cultural and legal experts are calling for greater awareness and education about the dangers of such practices. Dr. Akinlade Olorunfemi, a sociologist, explains, “Blood covenants are archaic practices that have no place in modern society. They often lead to tragic outcomes when one party perceives a betrayal. Education and legal reforms are necessary to eradicate these harmful practices.”
Addressing Domestic Violence
Domestic violence remains a pervasive issue in Nigeria, often exacerbated by cultural and societal norms that discourage victims from speaking out. The tragic death of Etim Mary underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat domestic violence and support victims.
Advocates are calling for more robust laws and enforcement mechanisms to protect victims and punish perpetrators. “We need to create a safe environment where victims can come forward without fear of reprisal,” says Adaora Okafor, a women’s rights activist. “The legal system must take a firm stand against domestic violence to prevent further tragedies.”
Conclusion: Seeking Justice and Healing
As the investigation continues, the community of Idekan Farm Settlement mourns the loss of Etim Mary, a woman whose life was brutally cut short by her husband’s jealousy and rage. The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of domestic violence and the urgent need for societal change.
Matthew James remains in police custody, and the case will soon be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Abeokuta for further investigation. The community, along with advocates for justice and women’s rights, is watching closely, hoping for a swift and fair trial that will bring justice to Etim Mary and serve as a deterrent to future acts of domestic violence.
In the face of such tragedy, it is crucial for communities, law enforcement, and policymakers to work together to address the root causes of domestic violence, provide support for victims, and ensure that justice is served for those who suffer at the hands of those who claim to love them.
Omonigho Macaulay is Atlantic Post National Correspondent
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