Three domestic staff members have been arrested in connection with the murder of Aribemchukwu, the daughter of Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia and sister
Aribemchukwu’s body was found early yesterday morning in front of her family’s home on Bembe Street, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos. Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, confirmed the arrests of Olatunji Oluwasegun, 35; Umaru Mamman, 45; and Peter Abigael, 21. The suspects were apprehended while trying to escape with items belonging to Aribemchukwu.
Fayoade mentioned that the suspects had made confessional statements implicating themselves in the murder. The swift police response was credited to the security measures in place in Ikoyi, which prevented the suspects from escaping.
Aribemchukwu, a medical doctor known as Chuchu, was in her early 30s and was employed by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). She lived alone with the domestic staff, who were reportedly employed less than a month ago.
Relatives disclosed that she was stabbed to death and there were signs of an attempt to clean up blood inside the house, indicating she was killed indoors.
A relative, speaking anonymously, expressed deep sorrow, highlighting the recent joyful celebration of her brother’s wedding in Lagos. The relative called Aribemchukwu a “lovely daughter” and described the murder as a great tragedy for the family.
Police suspect the murder occurred Tuesday night inside the apartment, with the body being moved outside to make it seem she was attacked outdoors. The police have recovered the items the suspects intended to flee with and are continuing their investigation to identify any additional accomplices.
Commissioner Fayoade advised residents to thoroughly vet their domestic staff before employment to prevent such incidents. He reassured the public of the police’s commitment to proactive crime response in Lagos.
