Wife’s Friend Strangled to Death: 35-Year-Old Motorcyclist Arrested in Ondo

A 35-year-old commercial motorcyclist, James Sunday, has been arrested by the police in Ondo State for allegedly murdering his wife’s friend, Justinah.

The gruesome incident occurred on March 13, 2024, at No. 47, Ijoka Road, Akure.

According to reports, James is accused of strangulating Justinah with a rope, following a dispute that occurred a few months ago over the diversion of her cow meat, valued at N250,000.

The suspect was subsequently arraigned before an Akure Chief Magistrate Court on a one-count charge of murder.

The police prosecutor, Taiwo Oniyere, informed the court that the crime contravenes sections 316 and 319 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.

He urged the court to remand the defendant to the Olokuta Correctional Centre pending advice from the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

During the court proceedings, James denied the allegation, stating that he had known the deceased for over nine to 10 years in Ile-Oluji town.

He claimed that he met his wife through Justinah and insisted that he had not come in contact with her since they moved to Ondo.

The defense counsel, Falana, requested a date to enable him to file a reply to the remand application.

With the defendant’s plea not being taken, Chief Magistrate T. O. Olusola-Olujobi ordered the remand of the defendant in police custody and adjourned the case until April 18, 2024, for a ruling.

The case has sparked significant interest and concern within the local community, with many seeking justice for the deceased and hoping for a swift resolution to the matter.

The outcome of the trial is eagerly anticipated, and it is expected that the court will provide a fair and just verdict in this tragic case.