Abia State police command have confirmed the brutal murder and beheading of a couple in Isiala-Bende autonomous community, in Bende Local Government Area of the State.
This is even as the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu has condemned the incident which occured in his home town.
The couple, Mr Jacob Udo and Mrs Comfort Udo, who hailed from Itumbuzor in the same Local Government Area, were reportedly slaughtered Tuesday night at their home by unidentified assailants.
The assailants were said to have, after killing them, beheaded the couple before dismembering the remaining parts of their bodies.
Confirming the incident in a terse statement, Abia command police public relations officer (PPRO), Maureen Chinaka said police received a report of the incident and visited the scene of the crime.
“Yes, we received such a report yesterday (Wednesday) at Bende Divisional Headquarters. The crime scene has been visited, exhibits recovered, bodies deposited at the mortuary, and investigation is ongoing.”
Meanwhile, Rt. Hon Kalu has condemned what he described as the horrific and senseless killing of the couple and called for a probe.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu expressed disgust at the barbaric incident.
“This heinous act of violence is unacceptable and violates the fundamental human rights to life. No cause or grievance justifies such a brutal and inhumane and dastardly act.
“I condole with the victims’ families, while calling on the state government and the law enforcement agencies to conduct thorough investigation with the aim of apprehending the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.
“I also call for calm and restraint amongst the communities in the constituency, against reprisal attacks.
“I unequivocally condemn the brutal killing of the couple. This shocking act of violence contradicts humanity’s basic principles. My thoughts are with the victims’ families and their loved ones.”
Kalu, while urging the authorities to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice, implored the people to work together against violence and extremism, advocating a culture of tolerance, respect, and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
He called on his constituents to remain calm and exercise caution to prevent escalation.
