The peaceful community of Etiti Ulo in Bende Local Government Area, Abia State, was struck by a brutal tragedy on the night of Tuesday, October 1, 2024, when a couple, Mr. Jacob Udo and Mrs. Comfort Udo, were horrifically beheaded in their own home by unknown assailants. This shocking event has left the entire community in deep shock and mourning.

Mr. and Mrs. Udo, both well-known traders in the area, were attacked and murdered in cold blood, with their heads severed by the assailants. The gruesome act was discovered by neighbors on Wednesday morning, who immediately informed the police. The attackers are still at large, and the motive behind this horrifying crime remains unclear.

According to reports from the Abia State Police Command, the couple’s murder was reported to the Bende Divisional Headquarters on the day after the incident. ASP Maureen Chinaka, the state police spokesperson, confirmed the news in a statement titled “Re: The Alleged Murder of a Couple in Bende,” which was released on Thursday. Chinaka said, “Yes, we received the report yesterday at Bende Divisional Headquarters. The crime scene has been visited, exhibits recovered, and the bodies deposited at the mortuary. Investigation is ongoing.”

The police are currently investigating the crime, collecting evidence from the scene and questioning potential witnesses. However, no arrests have been made so far, leaving the community anxious for answers.

The horrific crime has not only devastated the family and friends of the Udos but has also sent shockwaves throughout the Bende community and beyond. Many are expressing outrage and demanding swift justice for the slain couple.

Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and representative of Bende Federal Constituency, has condemned the brutal killings. In a statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu expressed his deep sympathies to the grieving family and called the act “horrific and senseless.”

Kalu’s statement read, “I am deeply saddened by the gruesome murder of Mr. and Mrs. Udo. This act of barbarism has no place in our society. I urge the authorities to ensure that the perpetrators of this horrific crime are brought to justice swiftly. We must all stand together to condemn violence and uphold the values of peace and tolerance in our communities.”

He went on to urge the people of Bende and Abia State to remain calm and avoid any actions that could further inflame the situation. “While we understand the pain and emotions surrounding this tragedy, we must avoid actions that will escalate tensions. Violence will only breed further division and suffering,” Kalu added.

As investigations into the murders continue, there are growing calls for justice from various quarters. Community leaders, human rights activists, and members of the public have all urged law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in their quest to find the culprits. The incident has also reignited discussions about the rising insecurity in some parts of Nigeria, as residents are calling for more protection from the government.

Despite the pain and anger within the community, there is also a strong call for peace. Leaders are urging the people not to take matters into their own hands but to allow the authorities to handle the situation. Community members have been advised to report any suspicious activity or information that could help the police in their investigation.

The brutal murder of Mr. Jacob Udo and Mrs. Comfort Udo in Bende, Abia State, is a tragic reminder of the rising violence in many parts of Nigeria. As the community mourns this devastating loss, there is hope that the police will bring the attackers to justice swiftly. In the meantime, leaders continue to call for peace, unity, and a renewed commitment to finding non-violent solutions to conflict.

The pain of this tragedy will linger in the hearts of many, but there is a shared determination among the people of Bende to ensure that the killers are held accountable and that peace and security return to their community.