The Abia State Police Command has arrested a woman for allegedly stabbing her husband, an officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service, to death in Umuihi, Umuahia North Local Government Area of the state. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, February 16, 2026, following a domestic dispute between the couple.
The deceased officer was identified as Chidiebere James. According to reports, he was fatally stabbed during an altercation at their residence. The tragic event has since sparked shock and grief within the local community.
Preliminary information indicates that tension had been building in the household prior to the fatal confrontation. The disagreement reportedly began on Sunday, a day before the incident, over issues concerning their sick child’s medical treatment.
Sources familiar with the matter said the argument centered on the husband’s alleged inability to provide sufficient funds for the child’s healthcare. The dispute reportedly escalated as emotions ran high between the couple.
The situation is said to have worsened after the wife allegedly discovered text messages on her husband’s mobile phone that she considered incriminating. The messages reportedly led her to accuse him of infidelity.
According to accounts, the accusations triggered another heated exchange between the couple. The confrontation allegedly turned violent, resulting in the fatal stabbing of the immigration officer.
Abia State Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, confirmed the arrest of the suspect on Tuesday. He stated that the woman was taken into custody shortly after the incident was reported to authorities.
“The suspect was promptly arrested and is being interrogated at the State Criminal Investigation Department for a case of murder,” the Commissioner said. He added that investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police authorities have not yet disclosed further details about the weapon used or the specific sequence of events that led to the stabbing. Officials say the suspect remains in custody as detectives continue their inquiries.
A close family member of the deceased confirmed that his remains have been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre in Umuahia. The family is said to be awaiting the outcome of the police investigation before making burial arrangements.
The traditional ruler of the Ekeoba Ancient Kingdom, His Royal Highness Iheanyi Nwokenna, also acknowledged the incident. He stated that he had just been informed of the development and described it as deeply unfortunate.
Residents of Umuihi Umuogba community have expressed shock over the killing. Many described the incident as disturbing and said it has cast a shadow over the area.
Some community members have raised concerns about the growing cases of domestic violence and marital disputes that sometimes escalate into fatal outcomes. They called for greater efforts to promote conflict resolution and counseling within families.
Local leaders urged couples facing marital challenges to seek professional guidance or mediation rather than resorting to violence. They emphasized the need for open communication and support systems to prevent similar tragedies.
The police command has assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted. Authorities said anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
As of the time of filing this report, the suspect remains under interrogation at the State CID. The police have indicated that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The incident has added to ongoing conversations nationwide about domestic conflicts and the importance of addressing underlying issues before they escalate. For now, the community continues to mourn the loss of the immigration officer while awaiting the outcome of the legal process.
