A retired judge of the Delta State High Court, Justice Ifeoma Okogwu, has been found dead in her residence in Asaba, sparking a full-scale police investigation into what authorities are describing as a suspected homicide.
Security sources confirmed to Zagazola Makama that the late jurist was discovered in her sitting room at No. 8 Tom Halen Street, behind IBTC Bank, Asaba, with her hands and legs bound and her mouth gagged with a wrapper.
Her brother, Emeka Okogwu, reportedly made the discovery during a routine visit early Saturday morning. He alerted the police at about 8:00 a.m., prompting the deployment of patrol teams to the scene.
Initial investigation led to the arrest of the on-duty security guard, Lucky Matthew, who is currently in police custody for questioning. Another guard assigned to the residence, Godwin Vanen, was declared missing and is presently being tracked by investigators.
Justice Okogwu’s remains have been evacuated and deposited at Maduemeie Hospital Mortuary, Asaba. Authorities say the motive for the killing has not yet been established, and the identities of the perpetrators remain unknown.
The Delta State Police Command confirmed that the matter has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Asaba, for a discreet and comprehensive investigation. Forensic experts are also combing the residence for evidence to aid the inquiry.
Residents of the neighbourhood have reacted with shock, describing the late judge as a quiet, respected member of the community. Security experts, meanwhile, have renewed calls for improved vetting and monitoring of domestic and private security personnel in residential areas.
The Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to uncovering the circumstances surrounding Justice Okogwu’s death, apprehending those responsible, and strengthening security measures across Asaba.
