A 23-year-old student of Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Uwana, Ebonyi State, met a tragic end on his birthday in Agbo Ibeku, Abia State, allegedly after being drugged by his friend. The victim, identified as Chinedu Hope, was reportedly lured to a hideout operated by a drug baron named Yoko, where he was subjected to a harrowing ordeal that ultimately led to his demise.
According to accounts provided on The Punch’s interview with Chinedu’s mother, Mrs. Stella Ogbonnaya, he was persuaded by his friend, Dan, to accompany him to the hideout in Umuodudu Ibeku. Despite Chinedu’s reluctance to indulge in hard drugs, he reluctantly agreed to wait for Dan inside a Keke while Dan entered the bunk.
However, when Dan took too long to return, 23-year-old student ventured inside the hideout, only to be confronted by Yoko and four others. Despite Chinedu’s refusal to partake in the drugs being offered, he was forcibly restrained, tied up, and administered a lethal concoction of ice (methamphetamine) and jico. The perpetrators then threw him into a pit, where he struggled for breath before succumbing to the effects of the drugs.
Upon realizing Chinedu’s dire condition, a bystander identified as Aham rushed him to a Keke in an attempt to revive him. Despite their efforts, 23-year-old student was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
The grieving mother recounted the tragic irony of her son’s death occurring on his 23rd birthday, a day that should have been celebratory. She expressed her anguish over the loss of her son to the senseless act of drug-induced violence.
The father of the deceased, Hope Oluoha, issued a heartfelt appeal to authorities, urging them to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. He called upon the President, the Inspector General of Police, the state government, and security agencies to intervene and deliver justice for his son.
Chinedu’s twin sister, Favour Hope, described her bond with her brother as exceptionally close, emphasizing that Chinedu had confided in her about everything. She attested to her brother’s clean lifestyle, affirming that he did not smoke or indulge in drugs, except for his association with Dan, whom the family considered a trusted friend.
Confirming the incident, Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Maureen Chinaka, stated that an investigation was underway. In a statement issued on behalf of the state Commissioner of Police, Kenechukwu Onwumelie, the PPRO disclosed that detectives had visited the scene, and suspects linked to the crime had been apprehended. The victim’s body has been deposited at the mortuary for autopsy, while the investigation continues to unravel the circumstances surrounding Chinedu’s untimely demise.
