Tragic Murder of Young Mother Sparks Outrage in Ogun State
The peaceful farming community of Ilewo Orile in Abeokuta North, Ogun State, was plunged into mourning on Wednesday following the brutal murder of 29-year-old Gloria Peter Ajine, a mother of one, while she was harvesting vegetables on her farm.
Described by her loved ones as a hardworking and devoted woman, Gloria had gone to her farm that afternoon to gather produce in preparation for the market on January 16. Tragically, she never returned home.
Her devastated husband, Peter Ajine, recounted the heartbreaking discovery. “I still can’t believe she’s gone. Gloria was the pillar of our family,” he said, struggling to hold back tears.
“She went to the farm to provide for us, for our son, for the market. Who could do this to her? She didn’t deserve such a cruel fate. My heart is shattered.”
Hours after she left home, Gloria’s lifeless body was found on her farm, lying in a pool of blood. The perpetrators, who remain unidentified, had attacked her in what the family described as a “cold-blooded murder.”
Originally from the Ochong family in Adum East Ito, Obi Local Government Area of Benue State, Gloria was married into the Ajine family of Abofutu Ikponyire in the same state. Her husband and their young son had relocated to Ogun State in pursuit of a better life.
Speaking on behalf of the family, her husband condemned the murder as a senseless act of violence that has left an irreplaceable void in their lives.
“Gloria was full of life, love, and dreams for her family. She was the kind of person who would brighten any room. The thought of her suffering such a horrific fate is unbearable,” he said.
Family Demands Justice
The bereaved family is now calling on law enforcement authorities in Ogun State to conduct a thorough investigation and bring the culprits to justice.
Holding his one-year-old son in his arms, Peter made an emotional appeal.
“I have lost my wife, my partner, and my best friend. Our son has lost his mother,” he wept.
“We are pleading with the government, the police, and all relevant authorities to ensure justice is served. Gloria’s life cannot just be taken like this, without consequences.”
He added, “I need to understand why this happened. Why would anyone do this? She had no enemies. She was simply a hardworking woman, dedicated to her family. The person responsible has taken away my happiness, and I will not rest until justice prevails.”
Community in Shock
Residents of Ilewo Orile have expressed deep shock over the murder, describing it as an unprecedented act of violence in their otherwise peaceful community.
Neighbours who knew Gloria spoke highly of her kindness and strong work ethic.
“This is heartbreaking,” said Rukayat Oladimeji, a neighbour. “Gloria was always cheerful, always working hard. It is unimaginable that someone would take her life in such a brutal way.”
Another resident, Gbenga Adewale, voiced concerns about security in the area.
“This is terrifying. If something like this could happen to her, it could happen to anyone. The police must act quickly to ensure the safety of our community.”
In a joint statement, the Ajine and Ochong families strongly condemned the attack and called for urgent action.
“This murder is not just a personal tragedy; it is a societal one. We urge the Ogun State Police Command to intensify their investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice,” the statement read.
They also appealed to the government and human rights organisations for support in ensuring such crimes do not continue unchecked.
Police Response
When contacted by Saturday PUNCH, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, stated that she would gather more information about the incident and provide updates. However, as of press time, no further details had been disclosed.
Human Rights Groups Demand Swift Justice
Two civil rights organisations, the Human Rights Advocacy Watch Campaign (HRAWC) and the All Nigerian Women League (ANWL), have condemned the gruesome murder and called for urgent action.
In a joint statement released on Friday, signed by HRAWC President Mabel Ndinne and ANWL President Maureen Fineface, the groups described the killing as a heinous crime that highlights the growing insecurity faced by vulnerable Nigerians, particularly women in rural areas.
“This horrific murder is not just an attack on one family but on our collective humanity,” the statement read.
“It is devastating that a woman who was simply working to provide for her family was cut down in such a brutal manner. This tragedy underscores the failure of the state to protect its citizens, especially women, who are often the most vulnerable to violence.”
The organisations demanded an immediate and thorough investigation by the Ogun State Police Command and urged authorities to ensure swift justice for the victim.
As the investigation unfolds, Gloria’s family, community members, and advocacy groups remain united in their call for justice, hoping that those responsible will be held accountable.
No comments:
Post a Comment