In a horrifying turn of events in Abia State, Nigeria, a man has been accused of a brutal attack on his wife, gouging out her eyes with a knife while she slept. This disturbing incident has shocked the local community and raised serious concerns about ritualistic violence in the region.

The suspect, a resident of Umuchieze in Bende Local Government Area, allegedly committed the crime after visiting a local prayer house and stream. According to reports, he had been taken to the prayer house by a young man from the village. Following this visit, the suspect returned home with various ritual items, including kolanut and eggs, which he is believed to have used in connection with the ritual.

The victim, whose name has not been disclosed, was reportedly living peacefully with her husband before the attack. The couple had no known history of conflict, making the violence even more shocking.

In the aftermath of the incident, the owner of the prayer house involved was briefly arrested but was later released. The circumstances of his release remain unclear, but the incident has intensified calls for justice.

The victim’s family, including her sister Ijeoma Okpokiri and cousin Chioma Okpokiri from Emede Ibeku, has reached out to high-level authorities for intervention. They have appealed to the Inspector General of Police and the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, to investigate the matter thoroughly and provide assistance to the victim for her recovery.

This case highlights the urgent need for greater scrutiny of ritualistic practices and their impact on communities. The call for justice and support for the victim underscores the broader issues of domestic violence and ritualistic crime in Nigeria. The authorities are under pressure to act swiftly and ensure that such acts of brutality are met with appropriate legal consequences.