Akwa Ibom Police Arrest Man for Allegedly Killing Girlfriend, Stealing Phone

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Ndifreke Isaiah Nelson for allegedly murdering his girlfriend, Emem Monday Effanga, and stealing her mobile phone after the crime.

This was disclosed in a statement on Monday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, in Uyo, the state capital.

According to the statement, the police received a report in February 2025 that Effanga was found dead in her apartment under suspicious circumstances. Upon arrival at the scene, officers observed visible signs of violence on her face and neck, indicating she had been strangled and beaten. The body was subsequently taken to the hospital, where she was confirmed dead, before being deposited at the mortuary for an autopsy.

Suspect Arrested in Church After Attempted Escape

Following investigations, detectives identified Nelson as the last person seen with the deceased. He had visited her residence on the morning of February 6, 2025, which was also his birthday.

He was tracked to a church in Uyo, where he attempted to flee upon sighting the police but was quickly apprehended.

During interrogation, Nelson reportedly admitted to visiting Effanga that morning and requesting to use her phone to take birthday pictures for social media. When she refused, an argument ensued, leading him to strangle her and strike her head against the floor before fleeing with her phone.

At the time of his arrest, the police recovered an Itel Super Phone belonging to the deceased. A post-mortem examination has since confirmed the cause of death.

Police Assure Justice, Warn Against Domestic Violence

The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, assured that justice would be served and reiterated the command’s commitment to tackling domestic violence and other criminal acts. He also urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the police.