Tragedy struck Amudo Village in Ekwulobia, Anambra State, on Friday, when a 49-year-old man, Nnamdi Anyaji, was arrested for allegedly killing his 68-year-old mother, Mrs. Dorathy Anyaji, following a dispute over proceeds from cassava sales.
The shocking incident has left the quiet community in disbelief, as residents struggle to understand how a disagreement over money could escalate into such a brutal act.
According to the Anambra State Police Command, the incident occurred at about 1:40 PM. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued to journalists on Saturday.
Ikenga stated that officers from the Ekwulobia Divisional Police Station rushed to the scene after receiving a distress call from residents of the area.
“Upon arriving at the scene, our operatives arrested the suspect, Nnamdi Anyaji, and recovered an axe believed to have been used in the crime,” the statement read.
Eyewitnesses say the suspect had a heated argument with his mother over money made from the sale of cassava. The suspect reportedly accused his mother of hiding the real amount she received from selling their farm produce.
In a fit of rage, Nnamdi is said to have attacked his mother with the axe, killing her on the spot.
After committing the crime, the suspect allegedly attempted to take his own life. However, neighbours who had rushed to the scene stopped him and alerted the police.
SP Ikenga added that the suspect is currently under close observation in custody to prevent further self-harm. He also said that a full investigation is ongoing, and the suspect will be charged to court as soon as investigations are completed.
“This case is a tragic reminder of the importance of conflict resolution and mental health awareness. We urge families to seek help when faced with internal disagreements, rather than allow matters to escalate into violence,” Ikenga said.
Residents of Amudo Village are still in shock following the incident.
The case has sparked wider conversations around family conflicts, economic pressure, and the state of mental health in rural communities.
Cassava farming is a common livelihood in many parts of Anambra State. It often involves family members working together, and profits from sales are usually shared. However, in cases where there is mistrust or misunderstanding about money, tensions can arise.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Police Command has assured the public that justice will be served. SP Ikenga said
